Me and the New Rich
I want to be a member of the new rich. Of course, this is different from being one of the nouveau riche as defined in the 1920s.
But what does it mean to be new rich? I supposed it would be best to begin with a definition of the old rich. The classic definition of rich is based strictly in monetary almost Marxian terms. The more stuff you have, the better your life is.
An utterly simple and shallow definition.
The new rich are a whole different breed. The new rich define wealth as an abundance of experience and excitement. They have the freedom to do whatever they want and enough resources available to do, go and see the world while they are young enough to enjoy it. That’s the lifestyle I want.
I am frightened of growing old and living off of a 401(k). I do not want to spend the best years of my life in a cubicle, marking time and waiting for retirement. That life is not for me.
It feels like I will have to apologize to my Mom, because I know she disagrees with me.
I first came upon the term while listening to a podcast from last year’s SXSW, in Austin, Texas. Tim Ferris was giving a presentation on how he only worked four hours a week, and more importantly, used the remaining time to not only follow his dreams, but achieve them. The talk was very inspiring, and his book, “The Four Hour Work Week” is an instructional road map on how to follow his footsteps, and become a member of the new rich.
I want to be a member of the new rich. I want to be a rolling stone. And I will Gather No Moss.
This is my journey. I hope I can inspire you as Tim Ferris inspires me.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:23 am
I’m with you. I don’t want to be stuck in the cubicle.
Definitely set your goals now, because in ten years you could have more responsibilities (kids, mortgage etc) that make you more cautious with your ambitions.