When we imagine extreme wealth, our visions go to glamor, opulence, and luxury. We’re whisked away to a seemingly carefree lifestyle, filled with luxury vehicles, designer brands, and intoxicating destinations. While extreme wealth has its perks, its reality is very different from this image alone.
Here are a few things you may not know about the ultra-wealthy lifestyle:
The Sense of Isolation
High net worth individuals have a lot of business to tend to–mainly around preserving their wealth. Imagine being surrounded by people who are only interested in getting close to you for what they might gain. This is often the case for the ultra-wealthy. They tend to keep to themselves, with small communities and few genuine connections. This may lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection from our fellow man.
The Attention to Wealth Management
As I mentioned, preserving extreme wealth is a full-time occupation in itself. Those with high net worth often require a team of advisors and wealth managers to assist them in navigating the complexities of their investments, taxes, and estates. Working through these details can be extremely time and energy consuming. It takes a significant amount of focus and attention, to ensure things run smoothly in the lives and affairs of the ultra wealthy.
The Burden of Spreading the Wealth
There is a case for those who have more than they know what to do with. This amplitude of wealth can be overwhelming. There is a social pressure for those in this position to use their wealth for good, through massive charitable donations and philanthropic ventures. While this is arguably a very positive use of wealth, the decision of where to give and how to create a lasting impact can be a tremendous undertaking.
Charged Conflicts between Families
Every family has their problems and the ultra wealthy is no exception. Inheritance, for example, is a complex and emotionally charged topic for anyone. Disagreements on how to distribute wealth and heirlooms can create conflict between loved ones, occasionally for years. There may also be pressure within the family for wealthy members to provide financial support and assistance. These expectations can lead to tension and resentment on either side.
Living A Normal Life
Those with high net worth are not often seen as “normal people.” They may be high profile, struggling to find privacy and comfort in their anonymity. This can also raise security concerns, causing high net worth individuals to limit travel or create security plans to protect themselves from an increased risk of kidnapping, robbery, or other criminal activities.
In conclusion, there is more than meets the eye to the average high net worth person. While there are undeniable advantages that come with extreme wealth, there are also profound difficulties and unique challenges. Some may thrive under the pressure and responsibility of wealth and others may find it completely overwhelming. If you are in this unique position, it’s vital to be aware and address these challenges. As for the rest of us, may we all remember the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, or at least that, with great wealth comes great responsibility.
We at Select Advisors Institute study wealth, wealth psychology and investor mindset.
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