Beyond material wealth: finding fulfillment in experiences 

How do you measure wealth? For most of us, our younger years are defined by seeing wealth through a material lens—owning the fanciest gadgets, upgrading our cars, or having an overflowing closet. Though these things might bring temporary joy, as time moves on, we often realize they don’t fill the deeper spaces of fulfillment. Instead, we begin to ask ourselves a bigger question: What does it truly mean to live a rich life?

What does it really mean to be wealthy today?

These questions are at the heart of redefining wealth for modern times. It’s not about the latest “it bag” or ticking off society’s boxes but about crafting a life that’s authentic, aligned, and fulfilling. And what’s driving this shift? A focus on experiences, relationships, and our own definitions of “enough.”

A holistic definition of wealth beyond money

Jennifer Wines, founder of the Invisible Wealth consultancy, offers an insightful framework for reshaping how we think about wealth. It’s not just about dollars in the bank or assets owned. Instead, wealth encompasses health, time, relationships, and the richness of one’s experiences.

Why experiences matter more than possessions

We live in what economists call the “experience economy”—a $12 billion industry built on the idea that meaningful memories far outweigh the momentary buzz of a new purchase. Exploring the world, enjoying a coffee at a café, or taking a painting class—these experiences create lasting memories.

Whether it’s visiting friends across countries or immersing yourself in your city’s local gems, these shared experiences connect us to life itself. Unlike material items, experiences grow in value as we revisit them in our minds and retell them to others, becoming woven into the stories of who we are.

Prioritizing health over hustle

Can you recall a moment when a health scare—yours or someone close to you—made you reevaluate your priorities? For many, it’s a stark reminder that health is non-negotiable. The pursuit of material wealth often demands sacrifices, but when weighed against physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, those sacrifices rarely seem worth it.

Instead of glorifying the grind, step back and ask yourself what truly sustains you. Block extra time for rest, say “no” when you’re at capacity, and treat your body with the care it deserves. Because achieving material success without the health to enjoy it? That’s no success at all.

Valuing relationships in a fast-paced world

The pandemic reshaped how we think about human connections. Forced isolation made us realize how much relationships fuel our sense of happiness. Whether it’s a vibrant circle of friends or the quiet comfort of family, these bonds enrich our lives in powerful ways.

Make time for people who uplift and inspire you. Celebrate your support networks and create shared memories that deepen those bonds. Career highs and material milestones may fade, but the relationships you nurture will last a lifetime.

Redefining “enough”: how to find personal fulfillment

For all the emphasis we place on striving for more, one of life’s most meaningful journeys lies in defining what “enough” means for us. It’s not a one-size-fits-all metric—it’s deeply personal and evolves as we grow.

3 questions to help define your version of a rich life

Here are three guiding questions to reflect on as you find your own definition of “enough”:

1. What truly makes me happy? 

Peeling back the layers of what brings us happiness can uncover surprising truths. Maybe it’s not the luxury vacation, but the simpler joy of a local getaway where you can disconnect and recharge. Or maybe it’s not climbing the career ladder as fast as possible but finding time to savor a hobby or passion.

Happiness is layered—take the time to explore yours and understand the core of what fulfills you.

2. Am I achieving a work-life balance? 

The pursuit of “having it all” often leaves us stretched too thin. According to research, nearly 69% of Americans prioritize work-life balance over maximizing earnings. And for good reason! Rest isn’t a reward; it’s a necessity.

Building a satisfying balance might require tough decisions—like setting boundaries with work or reevaluating commitments—but those moments of rest and personal time are where purpose and joy thrive.

3. What is my capacity? 

Capacity is about more than workload—it’s about how much emotional, mental, and physical energy you can give without depleting yourself. Your limits aren’t weaknesses; they’re reminders to prioritize what matters.

It’s okay to choose quality over quantity, to cherish fewer but more meaningful pursuits, and to reassess your capacity as your seasons of life change.

The takeaway

Here’s the truth about wealth—it’s not just about the things you can measure. It’s about crafting a life filled with enriching relationships, incredible experiences, and the health to enjoy them all.

For urban professionals, experience seekers, and those past their 50s looking to reshape their path, now is the moment to pause, reflect, and redefine what wealth looks like for you. Remember, it’s not about fitting into someone else’s blueprint—it’s about creating your own.

What does your “enough” look like? What experiences shape your sense of fulfillment? Leave a comment and join the conversation—we’d love to hear your story.