(Hint: It’s Not Just About Money)
It’s something you’ve probably heard on social media. Platforms like TikTok have popularised the concept of “rich rich,” often associating it with simple joys and experiences. This can involve showcasing aesthetically pleasing moments, like sunsets or cuddles, and associating them with a certain lifestyle, even if not directly tied to extreme wealth.
@avinetra #fyp ♬ Happy by Lana Del Rey – neerzara
It is a concept that differs for everyone. A common mistake is that money is necessary to be rich; this is wrong. Even though financial security is fundamental for basic needs and security, you don’t need to be financially wealthy to be rich.
Wealth is a subjective term; this means that, despite it mainly being used to describe monetary abundance, it can be applied to any aspect of life.
Wealth stems from other important factors to do with environment; this includes:
- where you spend your time
- who you spend your time with
- how you are treated
Alan Watts points out that many people give up on their passions because they worry about financial stability, and that is completely understandable. Money is important, and making ends meet is a real concern for most of us.
He also suggests that if you focus your life solely on chasing money, you might end up feeling like you are just surviving, not truly living.
Of course, not every job can be your dream role, and sometimes work will feel tough. But the goal is to find a balance where your job does not drain you completely, where it at least offers some sense of purpose or satisfaction beyond the paycheck.
Watts encourages thinking about success differently. Instead of working just to afford the things you love, try to find ways to earn a living doing things you enjoy and are good at.
In that sense, being “rich rich” is not about having everything perfect. It is about finding work that fits who you are, and allows you to live as fully as possible within your circumstances.
How the “Rich Rich” Mindset Can Transform Your Job Hunt
At I Love My Job, we help people find more than just a payslip. We help them find places where they feel valued, inspired “rich”. But in order to get there, you have to know what richness means to you. And that starts with tuning into the things that actually make you feel full, energised, and well.
If you’re currently job hunting, here’s how you can apply this mindset to find a role that feels like more than just work:
🎯 Start With Your Version of Wealth
What makes you feel genuinely rich? Is it having creative freedom? A manager who trusts you? Finishing work on time so you can pick up your kids or take that ceramics class?
Take time to write it down. Defining your personal version of success is one of the most powerful things you can do before a job search. Because when you know what you’re looking for, you’re far more likely to find it.
💬 Lead With Your Values
When you’re in an interview, don’t just talk about what you can do; talk about what matters to you. Do you thrive in collaborative environments? Are you passionate about sustainability? Do you value autonomy, kindness, or learning?
Your values help you filter out roles that aren’t right for you, and signal to the right companies that you’re not just a good worker, you’re the right culture add.
🔍 Look Beyond the Job Description
A role might look great on paper, but it’s important to dig deeper. Instead of just focusing on titles or perks, consider whether the company culture and values align with what matters to you. Do they support growth, learning, and respect? These are the factors that often make the difference between just a job and a place where you can build a career.
@chenmaglajos 1% of the time. 🤍 #teachersoftiktok #fyp #fypシ ♬ original sound – stayzy
🧡 Wealth You Can’t See on a Payslip
Still not sure what “rich rich” looks like in real life? Here are a few things our community says make them feel truly wealthy at work:
💬 “Having a manager who trusts me”
💬 “Getting to be creative every day”
💬 “Knowing I can log off without guilt”
💬 “Working somewhere that values kindness”
💬 “Feeling proud of what I do”
💬 “Being friends with my colleagues”
💬 “Having a free gym membership”
💬 “Being part of something that matters”
It’s often the small things, consistency, care, and space to breathe, that make us feel most alive in our careers.
You Might Already Be Closer Than You Think
Feeling “rich rich” isn’t about chasing something far away. It’s about getting clear on what fills you up, then choosing a job that lets you experience more of that every day.
We’re here to help you find it.
If you’re ready to start your next job search, we’ll connect you with companies that work for you.
