If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of helping people with their finances — and going on my own journey — it’s this:
Wealth is built by habits, not luck. I remember this lesson hitting home early in my career. It wasn’t some grand financial windfall or market timing that got me or clients ahead—it was the small, consistent things we did day after day. Even back when I see people managing their budgets as a student or people just starting out and saving small amounts, the discipline of those habits laid the groundwork for where they get to. That’s why I teach and lead with this truth: success in wealth building starts with what you do consistently, not what you do occasionally.
Not hype. Not shortcuts. Not by earning six figures (though that can help). Real, long-term wealth is built by practicing consistent, intentional habits. I’ve worked with countless people over the years, and no matter their background or income, the ones who get ahead financially often have the same patterns.
These are the seven habits I see most often in successful wealth builders. I practice them myself. They’re also part of the framework I share in my book, 7 Basic Wealth Strategies: For a More Rewarding and Fulfilling Life. Let me walk you through them in more depth.
1. They Pay Themselves First
This is one of the clearest patterns I’ve observed among people who build and sustain wealth. They prioritise their future by setting aside a portion of their income before addressing any other expenses. Whether it’s contributing to super, investing regularly, or building a savings buffer, the habit of consistently paying themselves first forms the foundation of their financial growth.
Even when starting small, automation is key. Many use online banking to set up scheduled transfers into investment accounts, treating their future selves as a top priority.
Why it matters: It builds momentum. Over time, even small amounts compound into serious financial progress.. If that’s too much, start with 5%. What matters is the consistency.
2. They Live Below Their Means (But Not Miserably)
In working with successful clients, one trait stands out: they are intentional with their spending. Rather than trying to impress, they focus on value and long-term goals. They resist lifestyle inflation, avoid unnecessary debt, and spend where it aligns with their values.
They aren’t misers. In fact, many enjoy life comfortably—but without the pressure of appearances. Their lifestyle supports their goals, not their ego.
Why it matters: It’s not how much you earn. It’s how much you keep. Thoughtful spending strengthens financial stability.
3. They Invest Early – Regardless of the Amount
A common misconception is that investing requires large sums of money to begin. But some of the most disciplined wealth builders I’ve worked with started with modest, recurring investments—often as little as $50 or $100 a month.
They understand that time in the market is more important than timing the market. By investing early and consistently, they harness the power of compounding over years or decades.
Why it matters: Starting early builds confidence and establishes habits. Over time, the returns on consistent behaviour far outweigh the size of individual contributions.
4. They Have Emotionally Driven Financial Goals
People who consistently build wealth often have deeply personal motivations that drive their financial behaviours. Whether it’s overcoming a financially unstable childhood, planning for their children’s future, or taking care of elderly parents, these individuals build wealth with purpose.
It’s more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s about creating security, opportunity, and freedom—not just for themselves, but often for the people they love.
Why it matters: When goals are anchored in emotion and personal meaning, they become powerful motivators for consistent financial behaviour.
5. They Keep Learning
One consistent trait of effective wealth builders is their curiosity. They take time to read, research, and ask questions. They don’t rely solely on what’s trending online; instead, they seek to understand the fundamentals of money management, investing, tax planning, and even behavioural finance.
They invest in their own financial literacy and are open to changing their strategies as they learn more.
Why it matters: The more they understand, the more empowered they are to make sound decisions—and avoid costly mistakes.
Recommended reading:
- The Psychology of Money – Morgan Housel
- Rich Dad Poor Dad – Robert Kiyosaki
- 7 Basic Wealth Strategies – Yours truly
6. They Protect What They’ve Built
Wealth without protection is like building on sand. It might look solid on the surface, but one unexpected wave—like illness, job loss, or an accident—can wipe out years of progress if you’re not prepared. I’ve seen people work hard, invest well, and grow their wealth—only to lose it because of poor insurance, lack of estate planning, or unforeseen crises.
In 7 Basic Wealth Strategies, one of the chapters focuses entirely on protection. Because it’s not optional. It’s essential.
What to review:
- Do you have life, TPD, and income protection insurance?
- Is your will up to date?
- Do you have an emergency fund?
- Have you nominated beneficiaries for your super?
Why it matters: One unexpected event shouldn’t undo years of financial progress.
7. They Know Their Limits and Work with Professionals
I’ve studied finance for 16 years. I hold a CFA charter. But even I don’t know everything—and I don’t pretend to.
The most effective wealth builders either learn deeply or lean on trusted professionals. They don’t gamble on things they don’t understand. They work with financial advisers, accountants, brokers, and lawyers to build a strong, reliable team. Worst of all, they don’t blame lack of knowledge or technical knowhow and do nothing about it. They also don’t blame the interest rates, the economy or anything else outside their control as they understand everyone else is going through the same thing. I alway say, the market is not rigged against anyone, it just favours a few more but the unfavoured still get things done and benefit from this.
Why it matters: Bad advice is expensive. I’ve seen clients come to me after following unqualified tips from online forums or a friend-of-a-friend who meant well—but cost them thousands in unnecessary tax bills, poor investment choices, or simply missed opportunities. On the flip side, a well-structured piece of advice—whether it’s related to tax, insurance, or investing—often pays for itself many times over, both financially and in peace of mind.
Tip: If you’re stuck, confused, or unsure—ask. The right professional could save you time, money, and regret.
Final Thoughts: Wealth Is a Lifestyle, Not a Lottery
There are no hacks. But there are habits.
Wealth builders don’t wish for better finances—they build them. They understand their values, control their spending, invest early, protect their assets, and ask for help when they need it.
These habits changed my life. I’ve seen them change countless others too. One client I worked with started by simply committing to paying themselves first and investing $100 a month. Within three years, they’d not only built a five-figure portfolio, but also gained the confidence to start planning for their children’s education and a long-term retirement strategy.
Another client, who had spent most of their life living paycheck to paycheck, used these habits to clear debt, build an emergency fund, and finally purchase their first home in their mid-40s. These aren’t overnight success stories—they’re proof that small, consistent actions lead to real results.
If you want to start building wealth in a way that aligns with your goals and lifestyle, check out my book 7 Basic Wealth Strategies. It’s a practical, honest guide to doing money differently.
And if you’re ready to take things a step further, let’s talk. I’d be honoured to help you build a strategy that works for your life.
Any discussion in this article does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on it, you should consider whether it’s appropriate to you, in light of your objectives, financial situation or needs.