People who come into a lot of money unexpectedly usually display these 9 behaviors

Ethan Sterling by Ethan Sterling | December 1, 2024, 11:23 am

I’ll admit, I’ve spent my fair share of time daydreaming about what I’d do with a sudden windfall.

Would I book that luxury vacation, finally buy that dream home, or just sit back and watch the numbers grow in my bank account?

It’s fun to imagine. But here’s the thing no one tells you: when the fantasy becomes reality, it’s not all smooth sailing.

Getting a heap of money out of the blue can bring joy, but it can also stir up challenges you never saw coming.

From impulsive splurging to unexpected guilt, people tend to react in ways that might surprise even themselves.

Let’s break down nine of the most common behaviors that come with striking it rich—and what they reveal about us.

1) They often splurge

When someone comes into a lot of money unexpectedly, their first instinct is often to treat themselves.

This can be seen as a natural response.

After all, they’ve just received a windfall and it seems like there’s plenty to go around.

Whether it’s a luxury car, a dream vacation or an upscale home, one of the first behaviors displayed by these new-found millionaires is splurging on big-ticket items.

But while it can be fun to indulge in the finer things in life, it’s also crucial to know that even large sums of money can run out if not managed wisely.

2) They may struggle with financial planning

When I unexpectedly received an inheritance a few years back, I was ecstatic.

I thought I had all the money in the world and didn’t need to worry about a thing.

But soon, I found myself struggling to manage my newfound wealth.

This is a common behavior of those who come into a lot of money unexpectedly.

Suddenly, they find themselves having to navigate through complex financial decisions, possibly for the first time in their lives.

This can lead to stress and confusion, as they grapple with investment options, taxes, and the overall responsibility of managing a large sum of money.

It’s not surprising then, that many choose to seek financial advice or hire a financial planner to help them navigate these uncharted waters.

3) They sometimes become targets

It’s unfortunate, but true. Suddenly coming into a large sum of money can put a bullseye on your back.

Family, friends, and even strangers may come out of the woodwork with their hands out, asking for loans or investments.

In fact, the National Endowment for Financial Education estimates that up to 70% of people who suddenly receive large amounts of money will lose it within a few years, often due to poor management and exploitation by others.

So, while it may be tempting to shout about your new fortune from the rooftops, being discreet about your newfound wealth can often be a safer bet.

4) They may experience guilt

Coming into a sudden windfall can often lead to feelings of guilt, especially if the money was received through an inheritance or a lottery win.

People may feel undeserving of the money, or guilty about their good fortune when others are struggling.

Interestingly, experts claim that it’s one of the symptoms of Sudden wealth syndrome (SWS), which is a type of distress that afflicts individuals who suddenly come into large sums of money.

These feelings can be amplified if close friends or family members are dealing with financial hardships.

It’s important to know that while these feelings are common, they should not prevent one from making sound financial decisions or enjoying their newfound wealth within reason.

5) They often change their lifestyle

It’s only natural that an unexpected influx of money would lead to some lifestyle changes.

Suddenly, options that were previously unattainable become possible.

Whether it’s moving to a higher-end neighborhood, traveling more frequently, or dining at finer restaurants, people who come into a lot of money often upgrade their lifestyle to match their new financial status.

However, maintaining an extravagant lifestyle can quickly deplete even the largest of fortunes.

Therefore, being mindful of one’s spending habits can help ensure the money lasts longer.

6) They may feel isolated

It’s often said that money changes everything, including relationships.

Those who come into a lot of money unexpectedly might find themselves feeling isolated or misunderstood.

Friends and family may start treating them differently, either out of envy or awkwardness.

They might also find it harder to relate to everyday struggles, creating a sense of isolation.

The sudden shift in financial status can cause a rift in their social circles, leading to feelings of loneliness.

It’s essential in these situations to stay grounded and remember that wealth doesn’t define one’s worth or character.

7) They might neglect long-term planning

When I won a significant sum in a lottery, I was caught up in the whirlwind of excitement.

The possibilities seemed endless, and I thought the money would never run out.

But the reality is, without a solid financial plan in place, even the largest windfall can vanish sooner than expected.

I learned this the hard way when I realized I’d spent most of my winnings on short-term pleasures and had little to show for it in terms of long-term investments or savings.

It’s common for those who come into money unexpectedly to overlook the importance of long-term financial planning in favor of immediate gratification.

But a windfall is not an endless resource.

Prioritizing long-term security can help ensure the money lasts and serves you well into the future.

8) They may develop a sense of invincibility

With a sudden influx of money, individuals often develop a false sense of security and invincibility.

They may start taking unnecessary financial risks, like making high-stake investments or starting pricey business ventures without proper research or planning.

This could stem from the belief that they have a safety net to fall back on in case things don’t pan out as expected.

But this mindset can lead to reckless financial decisions that may end up depleting their newfound wealth.

It’s important to maintain a level-headed approach towards financial decisions, despite the comfort of a large bank balance.

9) They need to prioritize self-care

Coming into a lot of money unexpectedly can be an emotional rollercoaster.

The excitement, stress, guilt, and isolation can take a toll on one’s mental health.

It’s crucial to prioritize self-care during this time.

This could mean seeking professional help to navigate the emotional complexities, taking time for relaxation and hobbies, or simply ensuring you’re eating well and getting enough sleep.

No amount of money is worth sacrificing your mental well-being.

You’re more than your financial status, and taking care of yourself should always be a top priority.

Final thoughts

Money changes things—that’s a given.

But what it changes most isn’t your bank account; it’s how you navigate life’s opportunities, challenges, and relationships.

If you ever come into sudden wealth, spend wisely and save for the future—it’s important to manage the emotions and decisions that come with it.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: money amplifies who you already are.

It can offer freedom, but it can also test your self-discipline, your values, and your ability to stay grounded.

So, if you ever find yourself unexpectedly rich—or even if you’re just curious—remember that money is a tool, not a solution.

How you use it is what makes the real difference.

And maybe, just maybe, the best thing you can invest in is a life that feels as rich as your bank account looks.