For many people, the pursuit of wealth is directly tied to their idea of happiness. Society often tells us that success is measured in dollar signs, luxury possessions, and financial freedom. And while money can provide comfort, security, and opportunities, I’ve learned that true happiness doesn’t come from the size of your bank account—it comes from something deeper.

I’ve built businesses, experienced financial success, and lost millions before rebuilding again. Through it all, one thing has remained constant: money alone has never been the source of my happiness. Instead, fulfillment comes from purpose, relationships, and the impact we make in the lives of others.

If you’re chasing financial success thinking it will bring you lasting happiness, I want to share some lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Money Provides Comfort, Not Happiness

Let’s be honest—money is important. It pays for necessities, gives us access to better healthcare, education, and experiences, and removes financial stress. Having financial stability can lead to a more comfortable life, but comfort and happiness are not the same thing.

I’ve met people with millions of dollars who feel empty, and I’ve met people with modest incomes who radiate joy. The difference isn’t in how much they have but in how they define happiness. When you base your fulfillment on financial success alone, you’re constantly chasing the next goal, the next deal, or the next investment. And once you reach it, the cycle repeats.

True happiness comes when you separate your self-worth from your net worth.

The Danger of Tying Your Identity to Money

One of the biggest traps entrepreneurs fall into is attaching their identity to their financial success. I’ve been there. When my family lost our $20 million real estate portfolio during the 2007-2008 recession, I felt like I had lost a part of myself. My success had become my identity, and without it, I struggled with self-doubt.

That experience forced me to ask myself an important question: Who am I without money?

If your entire sense of self-worth is based on financial achievements, what happens when you face setbacks? What happens if circumstances change? Money is temporary, but who you are at your core—your values, your integrity, your character—is what truly defines you.

Relationships Matter More Than Wealth

Ask anyone at the end of their life what mattered most to them, and you won’t hear them say “making more money.” You’ll hear them talk about their family, their friendships, and the memories they created with the people they love.

Money can buy experiences, but it can’t buy genuine connections. No amount of wealth will replace the joy of spending time with family, being present with your loved ones, or having deep and meaningful relationships.

One of the greatest realizations I’ve had is that success in business means nothing if you fail in your personal life. That’s why I make it a priority to invest in the relationships that truly matter, ensuring that success isn’t just measured in dollars but in the love and respect I have from those closest to me.

Purpose and Impact Create True Fulfillment

After achieving financial success, I realized something surprising—wealth alone didn’t make me feel fulfilled. The moments that truly brought me joy were those where I was able to make a difference in other people’s lives.

That’s why giving back has become a core part of my life. Whether it’s mentoring young entrepreneurs, supporting community initiatives, or organizing events like our $150,000 gas giveaway in Palmdale, I’ve found that generosity brings a level of happiness that money alone never could.

When you shift your focus from personal gain to making an impact, you find a deeper sense of purpose. True fulfillment comes from using your success to lift others up, not just yourself.

Balance and Gratitude Are Key

In the fast-paced world of business, it’s easy to get caught up in the grind—always striving for more, always chasing the next goal. But if you don’t take time to appreciate what you already have, you’ll never feel truly happy.

Gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to shift your mindset. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, focus on what you do. Take time to appreciate your family, your health, the opportunities you’ve been given, and the lessons you’ve learned.

Finding balance is also crucial. Success shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Prioritize your mental and physical health, spend time on things that bring you joy, and remember that life is about more than just work.

Redefining Success on Your Terms

At the end of the day, success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how you feel about the life you’re living. If wealth comes at the cost of your happiness, your relationships, or your health, is it really success?

For me, success is about creating a life that aligns with my values. It’s about financial stability, yes, but also about faith, family, impact, and personal growth. It’s about waking up every day with purpose and going to bed knowing I made a difference.

If you want true fulfillment, define success on your own terms—not based on society’s expectations, but based on what genuinely brings you happiness.

Final Thoughts

Money is a tool—it can provide opportunities, security, and comfort. But it’s not the source of true happiness. If you want to live a fulfilling life, focus on what really matters: relationships, purpose, gratitude, and impact.

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking financial success alone will bring you joy. Instead, use it as a means to create a meaningful, balanced, and purpose-driven life. When you do, you’ll find that true happiness isn’t something you chase—it’s something you create.