It’s not always about the flashiest car or the biggest house. Earning good money in life often comes with subtle signs, not necessarily showy displays of wealth.

As an experienced professional editor, I’ve had the privilege of working with clients from all walks of life. I’ve learned that those who truly earn well often don’t need to advertise it. They just live it.

In this article, we’ll explore seven understated signs that someone is financially comfortable, even if they don’t make a big show of it.

These signs can offer insight into the habits and attitudes that contribute to financial success.

Let’s dive in, and uncover these subtle cues of prosperity, shall we?

1) They value experiences over possessions

It’s a common misconception that those who earn well are always splurging on luxury goods. In reality, many high earners understand the true value of money and choose to spend it differently.

The saying “wealth whispers” is often true. The wealthiest among us may not feel the need to flash their wealth with designer clothing or luxury vehicles.

Instead, they might prefer spending on experiences like travel, education, or dining at top-notch restaurants.

This doesn’t mean they’re frugal to the point of deprivation. Instead, they understand that experiences contribute more to their happiness and personal growth than material possessions.

They see money as a tool for creating meaningful experiences and enhancing their quality of life, rather than merely accumulating stuff.

If someone you know always seems to be trying out a new hobby or taking off to some exciting destination, but drives a modest car and wears simple clothes, they might be earning more than you think.

2) They have a long-term financial plan

I’ve met many people in my editing career and I’ve noticed a trend among those who are truly prosperous – they have a financial plan.

I’ll tell you about a client of mine, let’s call him John. John isn’t flashy, doesn’t wear designer clothes or drive a luxury car.

But when we were chatting about life and finances one day, he told me how he’s been contributing to his retirement fund since his first paycheck.

John also has investments in diverse portfolios and, despite his modest lifestyle, he’s in no rush to touch them.

He has a long-term plan for his money, which is something I’ve come to notice as a common trait among those who earn well.

They don’t just earn and spend. Instead, they take the time to understand their financial landscape and set goals for their future.

They invest wisely, save consistently, and avoid unnecessary debts. These actions may not always be visible on the surface, but they’re key indicators of financial wellbeing.

3) They don’t stress about money

Money troubles are a common cause of stress for many people.

Unexpected expenses, bills, or simply making ends meet can be a source of constant worry. However, those who earn well often have a different relationship with money.

That’s not to say they never worry about finances, but they tend to have a buffer for emergencies and unexpected costs.

This financial cushion provides peace of mind and allows them to handle expenses without going into panic mode.

A survey from the American Psychological Association found that 72% of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at least some of the time during the past month.

But when you’re in a good financial place, this stress tends to lessen significantly, providing another subtle sign of prosperity.

If you notice someone who seems serene even in the face of unexpected expenses, they might be doing better than you think financially.

4) They live within their means

Living within one’s means may seem like an obvious point, but it’s surprising how often this is overlooked.

Those who earn good money understand the importance of not overspending and living a lifestyle that they can comfortably afford.

They’re not using credit cards to fund a life they can’t afford. Instead, they budget and plan their spending wisely, ensuring that income exceeds expenses.

They save up for big purchases rather than falling into the trap of instant gratification.

The absence of financial strain doesn’t necessarily mean they’re rolling in money. It could simply mean they’re smart about managing what they have.

If you see someone who never seems to be in a financial crunch, even if they don’t live extravagantly, they could be earning more than you think.

5) They prioritize their health

I’ve always been a firm believer in the saying, “Health is Wealth.” Interestingly enough, this belief is often mirrored by those who have actual wealth.

A few years ago, I went through a health scare that forced me to reevaluate my priorities. I began paying more attention to my diet, exercise routine, and overall wellbeing.

And I realized something – the healthier I became, the more productive and efficient I was at work.

This isn’t just my experience, though. Those who earn well often prioritize their health, understanding that maintaining good physical and mental health is an investment in their future earning potential.

If you notice someone investing time and resources into their wellbeing – regularly exercising, eating healthy, taking time off for relaxation – they might just be in a better financial position than you think.

6) They continually invest in self-improvement

One trait I’ve noticed among individuals who earn well is their commitment to continuous learning. Whether it’s a new language, a professional course, or a creative hobby, they are always eager to learn and grow.

This drive to improve isn’t just about professional advancement. It’s about personal growth, staying updated, and keeping the mind sharp.

High earners understand that the most valuable investment they can make is in themselves.

If you know someone who never stops learning and constantly seeks to improve themselves, they could be doing better financially than what meets the eye.

7) They’re generous

Generosity is a common trait among those who earn well.

This isn’t just about donating money to charities or helping out friends in need, though these are undoubtedly significant aspects of generosity. It’s also about being generous with time, knowledge, and resources.

Successful individuals understand that wealth isn’t just about accumulation; it’s also about distribution.

They’re often the ones who’ll gladly mentor a younger colleague, share their insights, or give their time to causes they care about.

Their generosity is a reflection of their understanding that real wealth goes beyond monetary value. It’s about creating positive impacts and helping others grow.

If you encounter someone who’s remarkably generous, they might be more financially comfortable than you realize.

Final thoughts: It’s more than just money

The signs of earning good money are often more nuanced than flashy cars and designer outfits. It’s about the way one navigates life, the choices they make, and the values they prioritize.

This statement rings true for many high earners. They understand that true wealth is about more than just accumulating money.

It’s about using money as a tool to enhance life experiences, invest in personal growth, and contribute positively to the world around them.

Next time you find yourself trying to gauge someone’s financial status based on their material possessions, remember these subtle signs. You might just find that wealth often lies where we least expect it.

After all, the signs of earning well are often less about how much you have and more about how you choose to live your life.