SOCIAL WEALTH

"I Am a Rich Man!"

Before my golf buddies start assuming I’ll be covering their green fees from now on, let me clarify—I’m not talking about financial wealth. My riches lie in something far more valuable.

I recently finished Sahil Bloom’s book, The Five Types of Wealth, which explores the different forms of prosperity we accumulate throughout life. He explains that our priorities shift as we move through different seasons, and I’ve reached a stage where social wealth—meaningful relationships and deep human connections—has become my greatest priority.

This doesn’t mean financial stability isn’t important. It simply means that as I reflect on what truly enriches my life, I find that relationships, laughter, and shared experiences matter more than numbers in a bank account.

The Power of Social Wealth

Social wealth is the richness of being surrounded by people who uplift, support, and challenge us. These are the people who remind us of our worth, who stand by us through life’s storms, and who genuinely celebrate our successes.

But what does a fulfilling social network look like? That answer varies from person to person. Some find happiness in a small circle of deep, intimate connections, while others thrive in broad social circles filled with acquaintances and colleagues. The key is understanding where you draw the most fulfillment—whether through depth, breadth, or a combination of both.

Yet, despite its importance, social wealth is in decline. Studies over the past five years reveal that many people feel more disconnected than ever. A striking number of young adults’ report having zero close friendships. But this isn’t just a youth problem. Dr. George Valliant, a Harvard psychiatrist and researcher, found that the people who were healthiest at 80 were those with the most satisfying relationships at 50. Meanwhile, a 2022 Gallup poll revealed that only 39% of adults feel deeply connected to others, meaning a staggering 61% struggle with feelings of isolation.

What’s happening?

Technology has made communication effortless, yet it has also made genuine connection more elusive. We can order food, work remotely, and maintain friendships through likes and comments—without ever having a real conversation. While convenient, this digital isolation erodes one of our most basic human needs: belonging. We weren’t meant to exist in silos. True connection isn’t built through screens; it’s forged in shared laughter, late-night talks, and the simple, unspoken comfort of being in the presence of those who truly see us.

Rebuilding Connection: What I’m Working On

Understanding the importance of social wealth is one thing—actively building and maintaining it is another. Here are a few commitments I’m making this year to strengthen my relationships:

1. Seek out people different from myself.
   Engaging with those from different backgrounds—whether racial, cultural, or political—helps broaden my perspective. It’s easy to surround ourselves with like-minded individuals, but true growth happens when we challenge our own biases and listen with an open heart.

2. Express appreciation in the moment.
   Too often, we wait until someone is gone to acknowledge their impact. I want to change that. Whether it’s a heartfelt compliment, a simple thank-you, or a text just to say, I appreciate you, these small gestures hold immense power.

3. Shift from being ‘interesting’ to being ‘interested.’
   We often focus on making ourselves seem impressive, but real connection happens when we focus on others. Simply listening—genuinely listening—creates stronger bonds than any impressive story ever could.

4. Stop keeping score.
   Life isn’t a transaction. Relationships thrive when we give freely, without expecting something in return. Whether it’s picking up the check at lunch or offering support without waiting for a favor in return, generosity strengthens bonds. As Sahil Bloom wisely puts it, “Living life with a quid pro quo mindset is a terrible way to live.”

The True Return on Investment

Investing in relationships is never a bad decision. The return isn’t measured in dollars but in the moments that matter most—the people who stand beside us in joy and in sorrow, the laughter that echoes long after a conversation ends, and the knowledge that we are not walking this journey alone.

I am incredibly fortunate. I have a spouse who is not only my partner in life but my closest friend. I have friends I trust implicitly, whose loyalty and support are unwavering. I have work relationships that bring depth and meaning to my daily life.

Social wealth, I’ve learned, isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality. And as I continue to nurture this wealth, I find that my life grows richer in ways money could never buy.

In my next post, I’ll explore another invaluable resource: time wealth. But for now, I encourage you—reach out, reconnect, and invest in the people who make life worth living.

We all need each other. That’s what makes us truly rich.