The 5 types of wealth by Sahil Bloom

Never let the quest for more distract you from the beauty of enough.

We’re constantly told that money is the shortcut to a good life, the only type of wealth worth pursuing. But what would it mean to lead a truly wealthy life? It may involve money, but in the end, it will be defined by everything else.

In The 5 Types of Wealth, Sahil Bloom offers a transformative guide, full of practical steps and actionable insights, for redesigning your life around five types of wealth: Time, Social, Mental, Physical, and Financial. The result is a deep satisfaction and happiness you can build and maintain across the seasons of your life.

If you’re not enough without it, you’ll never be enough with it

Whether you are at the start of your working life, looking to build and grow in mid-life, or a retiree, with Sahil’s guidance you will unlock:

• Control over how you spend your time

• Depth of connection with those around you

• Clarity of purpose, presence, and decision making

• Improved health and vitality

• Simple pathways to financial independence

The 5 Types of Wealth will help you make the first steps toward positive change and building a joyful, balanced life. It’s a journey that can start today – and change your world faster than you thought possible.

Big Ideas from the book ‘The 5 types of wealth’:

The Broken Scoreboard

• Critique of "Busy-ness": The book opens with a rejection of the modern "busy-ness" culture, positioning it as an ironic badge of honor that often masks a lack of focus on truly important things. As Bloom states, “I said it with all the unintended irony of the modern era, where busy is a badge of honor, as if being more stressed is something to be proud of.”

• Rejection of Materialism as Sole Measure: Bloom argues against the idea that financial success is the only indicator of a fulfilling life. He emphasizes the need for a broader definition of wealth.

Redefining "Enough"

• The "Enough Life": The concept of "enough" is central, advocating for a conscious decision on what constitutes sufficiency rather than constantly chasing more. This is highlighted by the anecdote of Joseph Heller, who, when asked about his wealth compared to a billionaire, stated, “I’ve got something he can never have…the knowledge that I’ve got enough.”

• Lagom: The Swedish term "lagom," meaning "just the right amount," encapsulates this concept of balance and equilibrium, which is a recurring theme.

• Avoiding Hedonic Adaptation: The text warns against the cycle of always wanting more, which leads to dissatisfaction even upon achieving a goal. “If you convince yourself that your satisfaction, fulfillment, and happiness are contingent on the next financial milestone—the next more—you’ll never find it.”

The Five Types of Wealth

• Interconnectedness: The book makes clear that the five types of wealth are not independent but are interrelated and mutually reinforcing. Neglecting one area can have negative consequences for others.

• Time Wealth: This involves the awareness, attention, and control of one's time. “Life is about direction, not speed.” Focus is on consciously managing your time so you can enjoy your life to the fullest.