There’s a clear distinction between being rich and being wealthy.

Being rich means having a lot of money in your bank account, but being wealthy? It’s much more than just money.

Being wealthy is about having financial freedom, making smart investments, and living a life full of value. It’s not about showing off your expensive lifestyle, but how you use your wealth wisely.

So, how can you tell if someone is truly wealthy and not just rich? I’ve got 10 signs for you to look out for.

In this article titled 10 signs someone is actually wealthy (and not just rich), I’ll be revealing these signs to you.

Let’s dive in.

1) They value time more than money

One of the clearest indications that someone is wealthy, not just rich, is their attitude towards time.

For most people, the concept of wealth revolves around money. But for the truly wealthy, time is their most valued asset.

Why? Because time is finite. You can always make more money, but once time is spent, it’s gone forever.

Wealthy individuals understand this. They prioritize their time and use it wisely. They’re not interested in wasting hours on tasks that can be delegated or automated. Instead, they focus on activities that bring them joy, help them grow, or contribute to their long-term goals.

If you notice someone who is constantly aware of how they spend their time and values it more than anything else, chances are they’re truly wealthy.

2) They don’t feel the need to show off

This is something I’ve personally observed. I once knew a guy, let’s call him John. John was rather low-key, dressed modestly, drove a decent but not flashy car, and lived in a comfortable, but not overly extravagant, home.

But here’s what was interesting: John was one of the wealthiest people I knew. He had several successful businesses and made smart investments that had paid off handsomely.

The thing is, John didn’t feel the need to flaunt his wealth. He didn’t wear designer clothes or drive the latest sports car to prove his financial status. He valued comfort, functionality, and quality over brand names and price tags.

This behavior is often a sign of true wealth. Wealthy people don’t feel the need to constantly show off their riches because they’re secure in their financial status. They know their worth isn’t tied to material possessions.

3) They focus on creating multiple income streams

Did you know that the average millionaire has seven sources of income? It’s true. They don’t rely on a single paycheck or revenue stream, but instead, have diversified their income.

Wealthy individuals understand the importance of not putting all their eggs in one basket. They invest in stocks, real estate, side businesses, and other avenues that generate passive income. This not only increases their wealth but also provides financial stability.

If someone is constantly exploring new ways to create income or talking about their various investments, they’re likely more wealthy than just rich. Because being rich might mean having a lot of money right now, but being wealthy means setting up your finances for long-term growth and stability.

4) They invest in themselves

Wealthy people understand the importance of investing in themselves. This can take many forms, such as education, health, or personal development. They know that the best investment they can make is in their own skills and abilities.

For example, they might hire a personal trainer to stay fit or a coach to improve their leadership skills. They read books, attend seminars, and constantly look for opportunities to learn and grow.

This mindset is about more than just money. It’s about understanding that personal growth leads to professional success and financial stability. When you see someone who is constantly striving to be better and invests in their personal and professional development, it’s a good sign they’re truly wealthy.

5) They give back

One of the most admirable traits of truly wealthy individuals is their desire to give back. They understand that with wealth comes responsibility, and they use their resources to make a positive impact on the world.

Whether it’s donating to charities, starting foundations, or supporting causes close to their heart, wealthy people see the value in using their money to help others.

If you notice someone who is generous with their wealth and focuses on philanthropy, it’s a strong sign that they’re not just rich, but truly wealthy. They have a broader perspective on wealth and see it as a tool to create positive change.

6) They value relationships over transactions

True wealth is not just about financial gains but also about the richness of relationships. Wealthy individuals understand that genuine connections with people are more valuable than any material possessions.

They cherish their relationships with family and friends and invest time and energy into maintaining these ties. They’re the ones who remember birthdays, anniversaries, and take the time to celebrate life’s milestones with those they care about.

More importantly, they help when someone is in need, not expecting anything in return. To them, people aren’t transactions or stepping stones to more wealth. They’re valued relationships that bring joy, support, and richness to life.

When you see someone who places high value on their relationships, it’s a heartwarming sign they’re not just rich in material wealth, but rich in life’s true treasures too.

7) They practice gratitude

A few years back, I went through a tough time. I felt like I was losing control over everything – my job, my finances, my relationships. It was during this time I met Sarah, a successful entrepreneur.

What struck me most about Sarah wasn’t her financial success, but her attitude towards life. Despite her accomplishments, she was incredibly humble and grateful. Every conversation with her started or ended with an expression of gratitude.

Sarah’s approach to life got me thinking. She was wealthy not just in terms of money, but also in her attitude towards life.

Practicing gratitude is a common trait among truly wealthy individuals. They recognize and appreciate what they have instead of constantly chasing more. If you come across someone who habitually expresses gratitude, they are likely truly wealthy in the most profound sense.

8) They’re not afraid of failure

You might think that wealthy individuals are always successful. But the truth is, they often have a long list of failures behind them.

Rather than being terrified of failure, they see it as a stepping stone to success. Every failure is a lesson learned, an opportunity for growth, and a stepping stone towards their goals.

They take calculated risks and aren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zone. Because they know that true wealth and success come from resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.

9) They understand the value of experiences

While some people might equate wealth with material possessions, truly wealthy individuals often value experiences over things.

They prefer to spend their money on memories, like traveling, attending concerts, or dining at a special restaurant. These experiences enrich their lives and provide them with joy and fulfillment that material possessions can’t offer.

They understand that while things can be lost or become outdated, experiences last a lifetime and contribute to personal growth.

If you come across someone who consistently chooses experiences over material possessions, you might just be looking at someone who’s truly wealthy.

10) They plan for the long term

The most distinguishing trait of truly wealthy individuals is their perspective on time. While others might focus on short-term gains, wealthy people are always thinking ahead.

They plan for the future, make investments that will pay off in the long run, and think about how their decisions today will impact their financial stability years down the line.

This long-term mindset is what separates the truly wealthy from those who are just rich. Because being wealthy isn’t about how much money you have now, it’s about ensuring financial security and freedom for years to come.

Final thoughts: It’s more than money

What makes someone truly wealthy extends far beyond the figures in their bank account. Instead, it’s a combination of attitudes, values, and behaviors that play a significant role.

Wealth is about time and freedom, relationships and experiences, gratitude and giving back. It’s about making wise decisions not just for the immediate future, but for years to come.

The truly wealthy understand that money is a tool. It’s a means to an end – not the end itself. They use their wealth to create a life that’s rich in more ways than one.

So next time you meet someone who seems rich, look beyond the surface. Look at their attitudes, their actions, and their values. You might just find that they’re not just rich, they’re truly wealthy.

Because in the end, true wealth isn’t measured by what you have. It’s measured by what you are.