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3 Wealth Habits That Truly Make a Difference: Backed by Research and Real Stories

Discover the practical, science-backed habits that increase your chance of building long-term wealth.

Why You Should Care About Wealth Habits

Many people ask, "What’s the secret to getting rich?" While there’s no magic formula, there are three habits consistently seen among wealthy individuals. Backed by research and personal observation, these habits increase your odds of financial success — and they're surprisingly simple.

1. Delayed Gratification: The Marshmallow Test Effect

What It Is

In a well-known study, children were offered one marshmallow immediately or two if they waited a few minutes. Decades later, those who waited ended up with higher incomes and better life outcomes.

Why It Matters

The ability to delay pleasure leads to stronger financial discipline. A real-life example is comedian and author Raditya Dika, who postponed buying a luxury sports car to invest instead — achieving financial independence at just 35.

“Your income today is not just for you now — it’s also a deposit for your future self.” – Fellexandro Ruby

2. Do Your Research Before Judging

Think Before You Criticize

We often judge people’s purchases — like fancy gadgets or expensive clothes — without understanding the full picture. Sometimes, buying a pricier product like an iPhone provides greater long-term value than a cheaper alternative.

Cost Per Use & ROI

Consider this: a 10-million-rupiah phone lasting 2 years costs 5 million per year. A 20-million iPhone used for 4 years? Just 4.875 million per year — and with better performance, especially if used for income-generating activities like content creation.

Lesson

• Calculate Cost per Use — not just sticker price.
• Assess the return on investment if the item supports your productivity or business.

3. Focus on Long-Term Investing (Compound Interest Is Real)

How Much to Reach 1 Billion Rupiah?

If you invest 1 million rupiah monthly at 6% annual return, it takes 30 years to reach 1 billion. Want it in 20 years? Double your monthly investment. Want it in 10? You’ll need to invest 5 million/month.

Wealth Takes Time

Compounding is slow at first — but over time, interest grows faster than your initial capital. That’s the secret of true wealth growth.

Global Insight

A study from The Economist shows:

• 16% of millionaires inherited wealth
• 47% built businesses
• 23% gained wealth as professionals

Investing is essential — but it works best when paired with steady income, either from a career or business.

Key Takeaways

• Delayed Gratification increases financial control and long-term gains.
• Think value, not just price — research before judging others (or making purchases).
• Invest early and consistently — compound interest is powerful, but needs time.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be rich — but chasing shortcuts is dangerous. Building wealth is less about flashy strategies and more about disciplined habits, patience, and smart financial choices.

Which of these habits are you already practicing? Or which one do you want to start with? Let us know in the comments, and share this article with someone who needs a financial mindset shift today!

Label:

Finance

References:

• Video: Money Mindset – Tiga Habit Orang Kaya
• Creator: Fellexandro Ruby – Watch on YouTube