Want to live like the upper class? Start with their habits. Here are 7 daily practices successful people swear by, backed by research and real-life examples:
- Time Management: Use tools like time-blocking and prioritize tasks effectively. Elon Musk and Jack Dorsey swear by it.
- Smart Spending: Save 20% of income, avoid debt, and focus on long-term value over instant gratification.
- Lifelong Learning: Dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to reading or skill-building. Stay ahead by continuously learning.
- Networking: Build genuine connections and make relationships a priority. Remember: "Your network is your net worth."
- Smart Risk-Taking: Take calculated risks, not impulsive ones. Think long-term, like Jeff Bezos and Oprah Winfrey.
- Health and Wellness: Invest in exercise, healthy eating, and mental well-being to sustain energy and focus.
- Wealth Planning: Plan for the future through diversified investments, multiple income streams, and tax strategies.
These habits aren't just for the wealthy - they're tools anyone can use to improve their life. Start small, focus on consistency, and build over time.
7 HABITS of UPPER CLASS people that will CHANGE Your Life | Old Money Lifestyle
1. Effective Time Management Systems
For those who achieve exceptional success, time isn’t just something to manage - it’s a treasured resource to be structured with purpose. Research reveals that 82% of people lack an effective time management system, but high achievers approach their days with a completely different mindset. They don’t just fill schedules - they design their time to maximize both productivity and personal growth.
One of the most effective strategies is time-blocking, where the day is divided into specific chunks dedicated to particular tasks. Elon Musk, for instance, famously schedules his mornings in 5-minute blocks. His routine might look like this: from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, he tackles his most important task; from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, he reviews reports; then, after a short break from 11:00 to 11:15 AM, he plans meetings until 11:45 AM. This hyper-structured approach ensures every minute has a purpose.
"If other people are putting in 40 hours in a week, and you're putting in 100, you will achieve in four months what it takes them a year to achieve."
- Elon Musk
Building on time-blocking, some leaders take it a step further with day-theming, where entire days are dedicated to specific types of work. Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block, follows this principle:
"All my days are themed. Monday is management. At Square, we have a directional meeting, at Twitter we have our opcomm [operating committee] meeting. Tuesday is product, engineering, and design. Wednesday is marketing, growth, and communications. Thursday is partnership and developers. Friday is company and culture. It works in 24-hour blocks."
Time-blocking and day-theming are powerful tools, but they only work when paired with focused attention. Multitasking, while tempting, can actually lower productivity. Studies have shown that juggling multiple tasks can decrease IQ by splitting focus. Instead, successful individuals commit fully to one task at a time, ensuring they give their best effort to each priority.
As responsibilities grow, focus alone isn’t enough - delegation becomes essential. Tony Robbins captures this idea perfectly:
"I don't do anything that someone else can do better, and I don't do anything that isn't the highest and best use of my time."
Even meetings can be streamlined for efficiency. Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, is a strong advocate for keeping meetings short and to the point:
"While some circumstances call for workshops and more elaborate presentations, meetings on a single topic rarely need to exceed 5–10 minutes."
Another critical habit is relentless prioritization. Arianna Huffington underscores the importance of cutting out distractions to focus on what truly matters:
"Relentless prioritization means focusing solely on essential tasks by eliminating distractions - including random notifications, social media scrolling, and clearing low-priority emails."
For students and families, these strategies can be adapted by creating visual schedules that group similar activities, such as homework, family time, or personal projects. As Stephen Covey wisely put it:
"The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities."
Finally, adding buffer time to your schedule can help you handle unexpected interruptions without derailing your day. This method isn’t just about squeezing more into your calendar - it’s about carving out space for what truly matters in life. By managing time with intention, you can create a balance that supports both productivity and personal fulfillment.
2. Smart Money Spending Habits
Wealthy individuals often approach spending with a focus on long-term value rather than short-term status or instant gratification. Much like managing time wisely, thoughtful spending habits lay a solid foundation for lasting financial success.
This mindset is reflected in their everyday choices. For example, research shows that millionaires spend an average of $412 per month on groceries, compared to $647 spent by the typical American family. Similarly, they allocate $267 monthly for dining out, slightly less than the $280 spent by the average family.
Another key habit is steering clear of credit card debt. A striking 73% of millionaires surveyed in the U.S. have never carried a credit card balance. This avoidance of interest payments is a cornerstone of their financial discipline. As Faron Daugs, Certified Financial Planner and CEO of Harrison Wallace Financial Group, puts it:
"If you want to build wealth, you cannot waste money on paying interest on consumer credit, such as credit cards and even car loans."
Their housing choices also reflect financial prudence. Six out of 10 millionaires live in homes valued at less than $500,000, and 64% describe their homes as "modest". When it comes to travel, they remain budget-conscious too - 96% of millionaires spend under $6,000 annually on vacations, with 41% spending less than $3,000.
They also resist the allure of frequent upgrades. Daugs advises:
"Fight the need to have the latest and greatest gadgets. Constant upgrades waste money and opportunities."
Budgeting is another cornerstone of their success. Wealthy individuals carefully track their income, expenses, savings, and investments. Many review their spending habits on a monthly, weekly, or even daily basis to ensure they stay on course. As Lance Drucker of Drucker Wealth emphasizes:
"The key to lifelong financial success is to always live below your means."
For families looking to follow these practices, start by automating your savings and treating them as fixed, non-negotiable expenses. Track monthly spending, avoid unnecessary upgrades, and focus on purchases that deliver long-term value. By doing so, you can free up resources for investments and opportunities that build wealth over time. Consistent, disciplined spending is a powerful step toward sustained financial growth.
3. Lifelong Learning and Skill Building
For the upper class, knowledge is the ultimate asset. Unlike those who see education as something that ends with a diploma, wealthy individuals treat learning as an ongoing investment - one that consistently pays off in both their careers and personal lives.
Research shows that 88% of wealthy individuals dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to reading. But they don’t stop there - they also carve out time for workshops, courses, and skill-building sessions to maintain their edge. In a world where industries and technologies evolve at breakneck speed, staying informed and adaptable is more than just smart - it’s essential. This commitment to learning aligns seamlessly with the structured routines that often define the habits of the upper class.
Consider this: automation is projected to eliminate 85 million jobs while simultaneously creating 97 million new ones. On top of that, over 40% of core job skills are expected to shift. These changes underscore why continuous learning isn’t just a luxury - it’s a necessity.
Management expert Peter Drucker captured this perfectly when he said:
"We now accept the fact that learning is a lifelong process of keeping abreast of change. And the most pressing task is to teach people how to learn."
What sets wealthy individuals apart is their curiosity and growth mindset. They don’t limit their learning to what’s immediately relevant to their current roles. Instead, they actively explore emerging technologies, new industries, and future skills that could open doors down the line.
The benefits aren’t just professional. Studies link mental stimulation from learning to a reduced risk of dementia. For families hoping to embrace this habit, start by setting clear learning goals - whether it’s reading daily, completing a course monthly, or mastering a new skill each year. Make learning a priority that’s scheduled into your routine, not something left to chance. Encourage children to stay curious by fostering an environment where they can ask questions and explore freely. Technology and online platforms make education more accessible than ever, offering flexibility for even the busiest schedules.
As technology expert Don Tapscott puts it:
"Knowledge is exploding, so you need to commit yourself to a plan for life long learning."
Transform your home into a space that celebrates learning, where growth and curiosity are part of everyday life. Lifelong learners don’t just aim to stay relevant - they find joy in pushing their boundaries and discovering new possibilities. For them, learning isn’t a task; it’s an exciting, never-ending journey.
4. Building Professional Networks
They say, "Your network is your net worth", and for good reason. While some people think of networking as awkward small talk at business events, those who are highly successful treat it as a strategic tool. Alongside effective time management and continuous learning, building a strong network is a key habit that drives long-term success.
Consider this: over 30% of all hires and 45% of internal hires come from employee referrals. That means the person you strike up a conversation with at a charity gala or community event could play a pivotal role in your next career move.
What separates upper-class networking from the rest is their approach to relationships. They don’t just collect business cards - they focus on forming genuine connections. As business author Bob Burg wisely notes:
"People tend to do business with people they know, like, and trust"
This mindset highlights the importance of building authentic relationships and leveraging your current network effectively.
Wealthy individuals make networking a priority, just like disciplined routines or smart financial habits. They often connect in exclusive spaces - private clubs, high-end charity events, or even through hobbies like golf or sailing. But you don’t need access to luxury venues to apply their strategies.
Start with the people and resources already around you. Nearly 60% of millionaires achieved critical career milestones by first tapping into their immediate circle - their "home zone". This could mean reaching out to a neighbor, chatting with a fellow parent at your child’s soccer game, or connecting with someone at a local community event.
The secret to effective networking lies in adding value. Successful networkers excel at reciprocity, offering help or sharing useful information without expecting anything in return. Instead of asking, "What can you do for me?" they focus on, "How can I help you?"
Entrepreneur and leadership coach Sarah Bolin Harper emphasizes this beautifully:
"Connections are why we're here – building authentic connections creates a kinder, more productive world and is absolutely measurable"
Make networking a habit. Invite a colleague for coffee, join a professional group, or take a class to meet new people. Families can adopt this mindset, too - encourage children to connect with peers, teachers, or other supportive adults in their community. Simple gestures like greeting neighbors, volunteering, or participating in local organizations can lead to meaningful opportunities.
Consistency is another hallmark of successful networkers. They maintain relationships through thoughtful gestures like handwritten notes or quick follow-up calls. Talent acquisition leader Danielle Antes points out:
"Specific, open-ended questions can help set the stage for a great exchange"
The best networkers don’t just build straight-line connections; they weave a web of relationships that spans personal and professional circles. By shifting your perspective, networking can transform from a dreaded chore into an exciting chance to meet interesting people and create mutually beneficial relationships. Genuine connections lay the groundwork for taking bold, calculated steps forward.
sbb-itb-013deb0
5. Smart Risk-Taking Approaches
Strong networks can open doors, but it's smart, calculated risks that turn those opportunities into lasting achievements. Once a solid network is in place, the next step is making strategic moves - risks that are weighed and planned, not taken on impulse. Those in the upper echelons of success don’t gamble with their futures; they make informed decisions backed by preparation and analysis.
The key difference between impulsive choices and smart risk-taking is the method behind the decision. Entrepreneur Sukhinder Singh Cassidy captures this idea perfectly:
"Whether we seek to embrace risk-taking or not, risks will still happen 'to us,' and so learning how to handle risk has value in a world that continues to face disruptions, small and big. In fact, the most dangerous thing of all is often staying still or refusing to adapt in the face of rapidly changing situations."
This mindset is what connects the opportunities created by strong networks to tangible, transformative outcomes.
A great example of this is Jeff Bezos, who left a high-paying Wall Street job to start Amazon. His decision was guided by what he called his "regret minimization framework":
"For me, I had to project myself forward to age 80. I don't want to be 80 years old, cataloging a bunch of major regrets of my life."
Other leaders, like Oprah Winfrey, Mark Cuban, Arianna Huffington, and Vera Wang, also highlight how thoughtful, prepared risk-taking shaped their paths. Arianna Huffington, for instance, views failure as an essential part of success:
"Failure is not the opposite of success - it is the stepping stone to success. For anyone who is an entrepreneur, that is perhaps the most important lesson."
To apply these principles in your own life, start by systematically evaluating risks. When faced with a decision, weigh the potential rewards against the costs, consider the likelihood of different outcomes, and acknowledge the uncertainties involved. Ask yourself what you might regret not doing a year from now. At the same time, prepare for setbacks by crafting contingency plans and build your risk tolerance gradually. Start small - take manageable risks daily to strengthen your ability to handle larger ones. By treating risk assessment with the same care as time and financial management, you can turn obstacles into stepping stones for future success.
6. Prioritizing Health and Wellness
Once you've embraced the mindset of taking smart risks, the next step toward lasting success is focusing on your health. To sustain the energy needed to seize opportunities, you have to invest in your physical and mental well-being. It’s no surprise that many high-achievers live by the saying, “health is wealth.” They view spending on fitness, nutrition, and mental care as an investment in their future.
Regular exercise is a key part of their routine. Research shows that staying active doesn’t just benefit the body - it sharpens the mind. For example, physically active students tend to have better grades, improved attendance, stronger memory, and better focus. In one study, 40% of top-performing medical students exercised vigorously four or more times per week, compared to just 24% of their lower-performing peers. Even short activity breaks - just 5 to 10 minutes - can enhance memory and concentration. Workouts also improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and depression.
Nutrition is treated with the same level of care. High achievers often choose high-quality, nutrient-dense foods, including organic options, to support their long-term health. Anna Taylor, Executive Director of the Food Foundation, explains the challenges of accessing nutritious food:
"Unhealthy food is so cheap because the prime ingredients can be mass produced and these products can be created in a non-perishable form. We have this situation where it is very easy to buy very cheap calories with very low levels of nutrients. Whereas the same is not true for some of the more nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables."
Mental health is another critical piece of the puzzle. Many successful individuals incorporate stress-management techniques - like meditation, therapy, and regular vacations - into their schedules. This focus on mental well-being is essential, especially when considering the financial toll of untreated mental health issues. Depressed employees alone are estimated to cost billions in lost productivity and increased health care expenses each year. Dr. Eric Jett, Licensed Counselor and Senior Director of Counseling Programs at Southern New Hampshire University, captures the importance of mental health perfectly:
"Being in a positive place with mental health is being able to recognize your emotional state, knowing that you can accomplish the daily tasks that you need to maintain healthy relationships and engage in a way that is meaningful for you."
To perform at your best, treat health-related activities - whether it’s exercise, meal prep, or mental health check-ins - with the same level of importance as a business meeting. Fuel your day with nutrient-rich meals, avoid dehydration, and aim for 7–8 hours of sleep each night to keep your mind sharp. By prioritizing your health and wellness, you’re building the foundation for long-term success.
7. Long-Term Wealth Planning
Building lasting wealth goes beyond earning a high income - it's about deliberate, long-term planning that transforms financial gains into enduring assets.
Studies reveal that 70% of wealthy families lose their wealth by the second generation, and 90% by the third. This highlights the importance of careful planning to create a legacy that stands the test of time. Wealthy individuals focus on strategies that turn income into lasting value.
Converting Income into Assets
One of their key strategies is converting income into assets that grow over time, such as real estate, business equity, and diversified stocks. They follow the principle of "paying yourself first", reinvesting earnings to take advantage of compound growth. Tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s or Roth IRAs play a critical role in this process, helping to maximize returns while minimizing tax liabilities.
Creating Multiple Income Streams
Beyond investments, they diversify their income sources. These can include careers, dividends, rental properties, and business ventures. For those just starting out, the journey often begins with building skills to increase earning potential, paired with consistent investments in broad-market index funds or ETFs. Financial advisor David Tenerelli emphasizes the importance of simplicity in investing:
"For most people in most situations, a long-term, buy-and-hold, diversified, low-cost investment approach is likely more suitable than active trading."
Strategic Tax Planning
Diverse income streams are complemented by strategic tax planning, which helps preserve wealth. By leveraging tax-advantaged accounts and timing investment transactions wisely, they reduce tax burdens and keep more of their earnings working for them.
Engaging the Next Generation
To ensure wealth endures, they involve the next generation in financial planning. Open discussions about money, shared decision-making on assets, and updated estate plans are essential steps. Jacqueline Valouch from Deutsche Bank highlights one effective approach:
"Allowing some control over philanthropy dollars is seen as a non-threatening way for both parents and children to educate and empower the next generation."
Starting Your Wealth-Building Journey
For those just beginning, time is a powerful ally. As financial planner Phillip Durbin points out:
"Young people have perhaps the biggest advantage compared to other investors: time. The earlier you learn and apply key financial skills, the greater your rewards will be over the long term."
Start by creating a budget and building an emergency fund that covers three to six months of expenses. From there, consistently invest in diversified, low-cost index funds or ETFs. Automate transfers and avoid lifestyle inflation to fully harness the power of compound growth.
The wealthy approach finances with a long-term perspective, thinking in decades rather than months. By adopting this mindset and implementing disciplined wealth-building strategies, you can lay the foundation for financial security that lasts for generations.
Conclusion
The seven habits we've explored represent powerful shifts in mindset that can reshape how we define and achieve success. From managing your time wisely to building financial security, these practices lay the groundwork for long-term achievement and personal satisfaction.
Research backs up the effectiveness of these habits. Studies show that writing down clear goals and sticking to structured routines can improve cognitive function, enhance social connections, and boost academic outcomes. It's no wonder that successful individuals recognize one simple truth: habits are the foundation of achievement.
What makes these habits particularly impactful is how they work together. Effective time management supports learning, disciplined spending creates opportunities for calculated risks, and focusing on relationships and wellness ensures sustained growth. This interconnected cycle, as discussed earlier, drives lasting success.
The key is to start small. Focus on one habit, practice it consistently, and gradually incorporate others. Life coach Allison Task emphasizes the importance of pacing yourself:
"Healthy active rest is a vital part of brain and body care. People who are continually stressed wear themselves down and ultimately get less done".
This approach applies to building habits too - lasting change happens step by step.
The numbers reveal why this is so important. A 2023 survey by Zippia found that 89% of employees reported experiencing burnout. This highlights the urgent need for better strategies to manage life’s demands. The habits we've discussed can help you work smarter, protect your well-being, and avoid the pitfalls of overexertion.
For younger individuals and families, these habits hold even greater potential. Starting early gives kids and teens a head start in forming positive patterns before unhelpful ones take hold. The secret? Start small and build gradually. If productivity is a struggle, try time blocking. If financial planning feels daunting, begin with automatic savings.
Transformation is a journey, not a quick fix. As Buddha wisely said:
"What we think, we become. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world".
By incorporating these habits, you're not just tweaking your daily routine - you’re changing how you approach life.
Success doesn’t require dramatic changes or complex strategies. It’s about practicing simple, effective habits consistently over time. Whether you're a student preparing for the future, a parent leading by example, or a professional seeking greater satisfaction, these seven habits offer a clear path to the life you want. The real question is: will you take the first step and make them part of your daily life?
FAQs
How can I use time-blocking and day-theming to stay organized and boost productivity?
Time-blocking is a simple yet powerful way to organize your day. The idea is to assign specific time slots to different tasks, whether it's work, breaks, or personal activities. This approach helps you stay focused, minimize distractions, and tackle priorities head-on. For instance, you might block out 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for deep, uninterrupted work, and set aside 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM for catching up on emails or attending meetings.
Day-theming takes it a step further by dedicating entire days to specific types of work. Imagine using Mondays for planning and strategy, Tuesdays for brainstorming or creative projects, and Fridays for wrapping up administrative tasks. This method cuts down on constant context switching, giving you the chance to dive deeper into each category of work without interruptions.
Pairing these two strategies can help you build a routine that boosts productivity while still allowing for flexibility and balance in your schedule.
What are some simple ways to build lifelong learning into my daily routine?
To weave lifelong learning into your daily routine, start by setting goals that are both clear and tied to your personal interests or career ambitions. Maybe you want to master a new skill, finish a set number of books, or complete an online course by a certain date. Having a specific target gives you direction and keeps you focused.
Next, carve out dedicated time for learning in your everyday schedule. Even small, consistent efforts can add up. For instance, you might spend 20 minutes reading in the morning, listen to an educational podcast while commuting, or watch a quick tutorial during your lunch break. This approach, often called microlearning, lets you absorb information in bite-sized pieces, making it easier to fit into a packed day.
Lastly, connect with others to expand your learning opportunities. Joining professional groups, finding a mentor, or attending workshops can not only keep you motivated but also introduce you to fresh ideas and perspectives. By building these habits into your life, you’ll keep growing and adapting, no matter how fast the world changes.
How can I start building a strong professional network without attending exclusive events?
Building a professional network doesn’t mean you need access to exclusive events or fancy venues. Start by identifying individuals in your field or local community you'd like to connect with. Reach out via email, social media, or through mutual connections. Platforms like LinkedIn are especially helpful for this - use them to make introductions, join industry groups, and engage in discussions that can boost your visibility.
Local meetups, workshops, or community events are also excellent opportunities to connect, and many of these are free or inexpensive. Another smart approach? Volunteer for causes that align with your interests. This not only allows you to contribute to something meaningful but also introduces you to like-minded professionals. The key is to build genuine relationships - show interest in others and look for ways to offer value in return.
