Rebel Talk: What is Rich?

We all know the feeling. You're out somewhere—a café, a park, or perhaps brunch with family—and you spot someone who, on the surface, seems to have it all. They look polished, carry an air of success, and maybe you've heard stories: the sold-out company, the big bank account, the supposed $40 million deal. Instinctively, you feel a twinge. Admiration? Envy? Maybe even self-doubt. But here's the kicker: do we really want to be them?

I had one of those moments today. Sitting at brunch, I saw a gentleman I’ve known of for decades. The word on the street was that he cashed out big, the kind of success most people dream about. But as I watched him, something unexpected hit me. He didn’t look happy. He didn’t look any different than the average person sitting at another table, sipping their coffee. In fact, in his eyes, there was a quiet heaviness.

And then, I looked at my family. My kids, laughing and chatting away, my heart overflowing with gratitude for the life I’ve built. It wasn’t the first time I had this thought, but today it was sharper: I am rich. Not in the $40 million sense, but in every way that truly matters.

For years, I used to feel inferior to those who had more money, who drove the flashy cars or flaunted their success like it was the only measure of value. But now? I don’t. That’s not arrogance; it’s clarity. It’s taken time, reflection, and a lot of growth, but I’ve realized that wealth has layers—and the deepest, most meaningful ones aren’t reflected in a bank account.

I’ve got irons in the fire—projects and passions I’ve poured my heart into, things I believe in with every ounce of my being. I know that with time, effort, and perseverance, one or all of them will hit. But even if they don’t, I’ve won. Why? Because I haven’t put life on pause. I’ve gone after the adventures I’ve dreamed of, invested in the relationships that fill my soul, and carved out a life of meaning instead of chasing some elusive "someday" that never comes.

That’s the secret, isn’t it? True richness comes from living—not just existing. It’s in choosing to say “yes” to what makes you feel alive, instead of waiting for the “perfect” moment. It’s in laughing with your kids, pursuing the hobbies that make your heart race, and walking into each day knowing you’re building something worth remembering.

The man at the next table may have $40 million in the bank, but if he’s not living, what’s it worth? Money can buy comfort and opportunity, sure, but it can’t buy time with your kids, the joy of doing something just because you love it, or the peace of knowing you’re staying true to yourself.

So, to you reading this: stop and think. What makes you rich? Is it the moments that take your breath away? The people you love? The dreams you’ve dared to chase? If you have any of those things, then I’d bet you’re richer than you realize.

Let’s stop measuring ourselves by someone else’s scale. Richness isn’t about having it all; it’s about appreciating what you have while relentlessly striving for more in the areas that matter. It’s about living with purpose, passion, and gratitude.

I don’t feel inferior anymore, and neither should you. You’re building a life that’s uniquely yours, and that’s a wealth no one can take away. So go ahead—embrace it. You’re rich. And the best part? You always have been.

Stay Relentless,

Ryan