Back when I was younger, I believed the key to real success was tied directly to my paycheck.
If that paycheck was higher, I assumed everything else would magically fall into place—my happiness, my relationships, my peace of mind.
But life has a way of teaching us lessons in unexpected ways. Over the years, I’ve come to see that focusing purely on earning more can leave other crucial parts of our lives to wither.
Money matters, of course—bills need paying, and a little financial cushion can ease stress. But I’ve learned (the hard way, at times) that the best things in life often have nothing to do with the size of your bank account.
So today, I’d like to share that with you. If you want to feel truly successful, here are seven things I believe you should prioritize over money.
1. Invest in your physical and mental well-being
Many decades ago, I’d clock in overtime hours without a second thought. I assumed I could push my body and mind to the brink and deal with the consequences later.
But now that I’m much older, let me tell you, health isn’t something you can put off for another day—it’s the foundation of everything else.
If your body is run-down and your mind is perpetually stressed, it’s hard to fully enjoy any material rewards.
There’s an old quote from the Greek physician Herophilus: “When health is absent, wisdom cannot reveal itself.”
Even if you’re raking in big bucks, life quickly loses its luster when you’re unwell.
Make time for regular checkups, get moving (even if it’s just a stroll around the block), and figure out the coping strategies that help you stay mentally balanced.
A healthier, clearer mind gives you the energy and focus to pursue all sorts of goals—financial or otherwise.
2. Cultivate meaningful relationships
What’s the point of having a fancy car and a hefty savings account if you have no one to share your joys (and struggles) with?
Genuine relationships feed our need for connection, love, and support in a way money simply can’t.
I love taking my grandchildren for walks in the local park with my dog, Lottie, by my side. The laughter, the jokes, and even the little mishaps along the way bring me a sense of fulfillment no paycheck ever could.
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Of course, nurturing relationships requires effort—listening, empathy, and forgiveness are essential ingredients.
Believe me, there’s nothing like a strong support system to get you through life’s tough patches and heighten the happiness in your good times.
3. Keep learning and growing
I used to think I was done with learning when I retired from my office job.
Boy, was I wrong.
If you’re a regular reader here at GE Editing, you might recall I once shared how pursuing new hobbies in my sixties felt like finding a whole new world.
In my case, diving into writing rekindled a spark I didn’t even realize I’d lost.
Staying curious—whether it’s by reading new (or old) books, trying out an instrument, or engaging in online courses—keeps your mind sharp and your spirit invigorated.
When you invest your energy in personal growth, you’re building an inner wealth that outlasts any economic downturn.
4. Contribute to something bigger than yourself
We all have something unique to offer—time, expertise, or even just a helping hand.
I’ve seen folks volunteering at local shelters, mentoring teens, or spearheading community cleanups, and they always talk about how fulfilling it is to give back.
Sure, you might think about money first if you want to donate, but let me tell you, the most meaningful contributions aren’t always financial.
Sometimes, it’s showing up consistently and saying, “I’m here to help.”
This sense of contribution reminds us we’re part of a larger puzzle. By dedicating some of our time or skills for the greater good, we’re also cultivating our own sense of purpose and connection to humanity.
5. Carve out quality family time
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned comes from palliative care nurse Bronnie Ware’s The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying.
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In her book, she discusses that one of the biggest regrets people have on their deathbeds is this: “I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.”
We might chase promotions or lucrative deals, promising ourselves we’ll be “more present” once we reach a certain financial milestone.
But those special moments—like reading bedtime stories to your grandkids or sitting with your spouse on the porch during sunset—can’t be replaced once they’re gone. They also don’t cost a dime.
Consider setting regular family nights or weekend activities where money isn’t the main star.
Sometimes, simply baking cookies together, playing board games, or exploring the nearest hiking trail is more fulfilling than any lavish night out.
6. Prioritize inner peace and emotional balance
We live in a noisy world. Notifications ding, deadlines loom, and the pressure to “do more, earn more” can scramble our heads.
That’s where cultivating emotional balance comes in.
It might mean setting boundaries, learning to say “no” more often, or even practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation.
I’m no know-it-all, but I’ve noticed that when I’m anxious or overloaded, no amount of money soothes that internal storm.
Conversely, when I’m calm and grounded, I can navigate financial ups and downs with a clearer perspective.
Let’s face it—if you’re constantly on edge, you’ll be too drained to appreciate any external success that comes your way.
Making mental well-being a priority is a wise investment in your long-term happiness.
7. Live with purpose and passion
Last but perhaps most importantly, you’ve got to find your “why.”
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It’s that inner calling or drive that gives you a reason to get out of bed in the morning.
Money can fund your pursuits, sure, but it can’t ignite the fire in your soul.
For me, writing became a meaningful pursuit late in life, offering a purpose that transcends any monetary gain.
As Viktor Frankl noted in his seminal work Man’s Search for Meaning, humans have an innate need for a sense of purpose.
When you align your day-to-day actions with that purpose, it infuses every moment with a richness that money alone can’t replicate.
Whether it’s painting, teaching, inventing, or simply being the best grandparent possible, diving into something that moves you can create a lasting sense of fulfillment.
That’s something no bank balance can provide.
Conclusion
At this stage in my life, I’ve realized that true success isn’t about collecting the biggest paycheck or the flashiest possessions.
It’s about the richness of your experiences, the depth of your relationships, and the peace you carry within yourself.
So let me ask you: If you had to pick just one of these seven priorities to focus on today, which would it be?
And what small step could you take right now to start making that a reality?
Go for it—and watch how a life built on these values far outshines one fixated solely on the bottom line.
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