7 subtle habits of people with old money wealth, according to a psychologist

Wealth — it’s a term that often conjures images of flashy cars, designer clothes, and luxurious vacations. However, for those with old money wealth, the lifestyle is typically far more understated.

It’s not just about how much you have in your bank account, it’s about the habits and mindset you’ve inherited and cultivated over generations.

As a psychologist, I’ve had the privilege of observing these subtle yet distinct habits of people with old money wealth.

It’s fascinating to see how these habits are deeply ingrained, often barely noticeable to the untrained eye, yet they play a crucial role in maintaining and growing their wealth.

So, want to know what these habits are?

Let me share with you 7 subtle habits of people with old money wealth. I trust it will not only provide an intriguing peek into their world but may also inspire you to adopt some of these practices in your own life.

1) They’re discreet about their wealth

In the world of old money wealth, discretion is a virtue.

It’s not about hiding their fortune or pretending to be less wealthy. Instead, it’s about embodying a certain level of humility and respect for the value of money.

People with old money wealth often maintain a low profile. You won’t see them flashing their wealth with ostentatious displays or extravagant purchases.

Now, this doesn’t mean they live a life of frugality. They do enjoy the fruits of their wealth, but they do so subtly.

Their lifestyle choices reflect quality over quantity. They opt for experiences over things, value over price, and longevity over trends.

It’s interesting to note how this discreet approach to wealth forms a fundamental part of their lifestyle, significantly contributing to their ability to preserve and grow their wealth over generations.

And if you’ve noticed this tendency in your habits, it could be a sign that you’re adopting the understated ethos of old money wealth.

2) They practice delayed gratification

Delayed gratification — it’s a psychological concept you may have heard about.

In simple terms, it’s the ability to resist the temptation for an immediate reward and wait for a more valuable reward in the future.

Sounds easy? Well, not quite.

It’s a skill that takes practice and patience, but it’s one that people with old money wealth have mastered. 

Why is this skill so important?

Well, as Moneywise Global notes, “Delayed gratification has a great deal to do with how healthy our finances are looking.”

Instead of giving in to impulsive purchases or short-term pleasures, wealthy people focus on long-term financial goals. They understand that the real value of money lies in its potential growth over time.

So, they invest, they save, and they plan for the future. They’re willing to wait for the bigger payoff down the line.

This habit of practicing delayed gratification is a significant contributor to their sustained wealth and financial security. And if you’ve been cultivating this habit, you’re certainly on the right track.

3) They’re not afraid to take calculated risks

Now, while people with old money wealth practice delayed gratification, they’re not entirely risk-averse. Quite the opposite, in fact.

They understand that to grow their wealth, they need to take calculated risks. They’re not reckless, but they’re also not overly cautious.

Investments, business ventures, real estate — they explore various avenues that promise substantial returns.

But here’s where it gets interesting.

Their risk-taking isn’t driven by the thrill of potential gain. Instead, it’s backed by careful research, expert advice, and thorough planning.

They know the importance of diversification in managing risk and maximizing returns. They don’t put all their eggs in one basket. Their financial portfolio is often a mix of different asset types, reducing potential losses while increasing chances for growth.

In short, their approach to risk is calculated and strategic — an essential trait contributing to their sustained wealth. If you find yourself making similar decisions, you might be adopting this old money habit.

4) They prioritize education and continuous learning

Ever wondered why families with old money wealth seem to place such a high emphasis on education?

It’s because they understand that knowledge is a valuable asset — an investment that pays dividends throughout one’s life. So much so that, according to Town & Country, wealthy families are willing to spend $1.7 million to get their kids into Ivy League schools. 

But they’re not just focused on formal education. They also value a broad spectrum of knowledge, from financial literacy to world history, from arts to sciences.

They believe in the power of continuous learning and intellectual growth. They often encourage their children to explore different fields, cultivate diverse interests, and develop a well-rounded worldview.

Moreover, they equip themselves with the knowledge necessary to manage their wealth effectively. They keep themselves updated on economic trends, investment opportunities, and financial management strategies.

So, if you’ve been prioritizing education and continuous learning in your life, you’re certainly adopting a habit common among individuals with old money wealth.

5) They understand the importance of balance

Picture this: You’ve just inherited a substantial fortune. Do you throw yourself into managing it full-time, or do you continue pursuing your personal interests?

People with old money wealth understand the importance of balance. They don’t let their wealth consume their life. Instead, they strike a healthy balance between managing their wealth and pursuing their passions.

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They make time for leisure activities, hobbies, and personal growth. They value work-life balance and understand that wealth is but one aspect of their life.

Could you say the same for yourself? Are you able to maintain a healthy work-life balance? Do you make time for your passions and interests outside of work?

If so, you’re adopting a key habit of individuals with old money wealth — understanding and maintaining balance in all aspects of life.

6) They uphold certain values and traditions

Here’s something interesting from the folks at The Old Money Book: “Old Money is a culture. It is marked by attitudes, behaviors, vocabulary, rituals, and costumes.”

Which means that people with old money wealth aren’t just sitting on a pile of cash — they’re living by a set of deeply ingrained values and customs that have been passed down for generations.

Here’s a glimpse into some values that are commonly upheld:

• Integrity: Honesty and trustworthiness in all dealings.
• Respect: For themselves, others, and the world around them.
• Responsibility: Acknowledging and fulfilling their duties to their family, community, and society.
• Stewardship: Recognizing that their wealth is not just for personal use but to be managed responsibly for future generations.

These core values form the backbone of their character and influence their habits. If these resonate with you, it’s a sign that you share some common ground with individuals of old money wealth.

This brings me to the next point…

7) They’re focused on leaving a legacy

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, people with old money wealth are focused on leaving a legacy. Like I said earlier, there are values and a culture to uphold, generation after generation. 

It’s not about fame or creating a dynasty. It’s about the impact they can have on their family, their community, and the world.

They view their wealth as a tool to create positive change and leave a lasting impact. They invest in the future – be it through education, philanthropy, or sustainable practices.

They strive to leave the world a little better than they found it. They want to ensure that their wealth continues to make a positive impact, even long after they’re gone.

This long-term vision, this focus on leaving a legacy, is perhaps the most defining habit of people with old money wealth.

So, what can we learn from old money wealth?

The habits of people with old money wealth provide valuable insights for anyone, no matter their financial status.

Here are some principles we can all take away from their practices:

• Value quality over quantity: Opt for long-lasting, meaningful experiences and purchases.
• Embrace continuous learning: Knowledge is an asset that keeps growing over time.
• Honor tradition and timeless values: Stay grounded in principles that endure, even as trends shift.
• Practice financial discipline: Live below your means and prioritize saving and investing.

As we’ve seen, these habits aren’t just about managing wealth. They’re about living a balanced, fulfilling life while making a positive impact on the world.

So, as you reflect on these habits, ask yourself: What steps can I take to incorporate these principles into my own life? How can I use my resources — no matter how big or small — to make a lasting impact?

Because at the end of the day, the true measure of wealth isn’t just about how much we have. It’s about how we choose to use it.