9 things you’re doing in your 30s that show you’ll be wealthy one day, according to psychology

Your 30s are a tricky decade—you’re juggling ambition, responsibilities, and the pressure to “have it all figured out.”

But here’s the thing: what you’re doing right now—your habits, your mindset—might be shaping your financial future in ways you don’t even realize.

We like to think wealth is all about hard work, smart investments, or even pure luck. But psychology says otherwise.

The way you think, act, and approach life in your 30s can be a huge predictor of whether you’ll build real wealth down the line.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of nine signs that, according to psychology, suggest you’re setting yourself up for financial success.

If any of these resonate, you might already be closer to your money goals than you think. 

1. You’re a disciplined saver

When it comes to wealth accumulation, saving is an essential habit.

If you’ve developed the discipline of regularly putting away a portion of your income, you’re on the right track.

This might not seem like a big deal, especially if your savings account isn’t bursting at the seams just yet. But the act of saving is less about the amount and more about the habit.

Psychology tells us that habits formed in our 30s often stick with us for life. So, if you’re consistently setting aside money now, chances are you’ll continue to do so in the future.

Disciplined savers understand that every little bit counts. They realize that wealth isn’t built overnight but through steady, consistent effort.

2. You’re not afraid to take calculated risks

Another sign that you’re on the path to wealth is your willingness to take calculated risks.

This doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind and making reckless decisions. Rather, it’s about carefully assessing situations and making bold moves when it makes sense.

Maybe you’ve invested in stocks, started your own business, or taken a job in a new city. These are all examples of calculated risks that could potentially yield high rewards.

Research suggests that individuals who tend to be successful in accumulating wealth are those who aren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zones and make decisions that might seem risky to others.

So, if you’re someone who embraces challenges and isn’t afraid to make big decisions, even when there’s a level of uncertainty involved, the future could hold significant wealth for you.

3. You prioritize experiences over possessions

While it might seem counterproductive, those who prioritize experiences over material possessions often find themselves on the path to wealth.

Instead of splurging on the latest gadgets or designer clothes, you’re more likely to spend your money on travel, learning new skills, or other enriching experiences.

This might mean spending less in the short term, but the long-term benefits are invaluable.

These experiences contribute to your growth and knowledge, which can lead to better opportunities and income in the future.

Moreover, valuing experiences over possessions means you’re more likely to live within your means and save more.

This trait of financial prudence can contribute significantly to accumulating wealth in the long run.

4. You’ve had your fair share of failures

This one might sting a bit.

But the truth is, if you’ve clocked up a few failures by your 30s, it might just mean you’re on the road to wealth.

Failures are tough.

They can knock your confidence and make you second guess your decisions.

But if you’ve failed and picked yourself up again, you’re demonstrating one of the most valuable traits there is: resilience.

The most successful people in the world have often failed more times than they’ve succeeded. But each failure is a lesson, an opportunity to learn and grow.

5. You’re generous with your time and resources

Sometimes, the route to wealth isn’t just about accumulating more for ourselves, it’s about giving back too.

If you find joy in helping others, whether it’s through volunteering your time or donating to causes you care about, you’re cultivating a mindset of abundance.

This mindset can attract more wealth into your life.

Being generous also opens up opportunities for networking and forming valuable connections. It enhances your reputation as a caring, trustworthy individual.

These traits are often associated with successful people who have built lasting wealth.

6. You’re always learning and adapting

Let’s face it, life in your 30s can be a roller coaster.

Careers change, families grow, and new challenges emerge.

If you’re someone who embraces these changes and uses them as opportunities to learn and adapt, you’re on the right track.

Perhaps you’ve taken up new hobbies, learned new skills for your job, or adapted to a completely different lifestyle. This willingness to learn and adapt is a key trait of successful people.

In a rapidly changing world, those who can keep up and adjust are the ones who come out on top.

7. You know how to enjoy the small things

Life isn’t all about the big wins.

If you’re someone who knows how to enjoy the small things, you might be on your way to more significant success.

Perhaps it’s relishing that morning coffee, taking a moment to enjoy a sunset, or appreciating a good laugh with friends.

These might seem like tiny details, but they’re signs of a positive attitude towards life.

Why does this matter?

Because staying positive, even when things aren’t going your way, is a common trait among successful people. They understand that wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about enjoying life and having a positive outlook.

8. You’re not waiting for a windfall

Here’s the hard truth: If you’re sitting around waiting for that lottery win or a surprise inheritance to secure your wealth, you’re going about it the wrong way.

Real wealth doesn’t come from a sudden windfall. It’s built slowly and steadily, through hard work, smart decisions, and consistent habits.

If you’re in your 30s and you’re already understanding this, then you’re miles ahead of the game.

You’re taking control of your financial future, rather than leaving it to chance.

9. You believe in yourself

Above all else, the most crucial thing you can do in your 30s to set yourself up for future wealth is believing in yourself.

Belief in your own abilities, your own worth, and your own potential for success is the foundation of all achievements. It’s the driving force that propels you to pursue your goals relentlessly, no matter how many obstacles stand in your way.

If you believe in yourself, you’re more likely to take risks, seize opportunities, and bounce back from failures. All these are essential traits for building wealth.

Your self-confidence could be the most valuable asset you possess on your journey to wealth.

Closing thoughts

Being in your 30s can feel like a defining decade. It’s a time when you’re making decisions and forming habits that can significantly impact your future, including your path to wealth.

Recognizing these nine traits in yourself isn’t a guaranteed ticket to wealth, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction.

Renowned psychologist Dr. Richard Wiseman, author of “The Luck Factor”, once said, “The harder you work, the luckier you become.”

This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of building wealth. It’s not just about luck or chance, but about hard work, making smart choices, and cultivating the right mindset.

It’s important to remember that wealth isn’t just about the money in your bank account. It’s about leading a rich life filled with growth, experiences, and meaningful relationships.

So as you reflect on these traits, don’t just focus on how they might lead to financial success. Consider how they’re shaping you as an individual.

Are they leading you towards a richer life? Are they helping you become the person you want to be?

In the end, perhaps the most important question isn’t whether you’ll be wealthy one day – it’s whether these traits are helping you build a life that feels rich and rewarding in its own right.

Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling has a background in entrepreneurship, having started and managed several small businesses. His journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship provides him with practical insights into personal resilience, strategic thinking, and the value of persistence. Ethan’s articles offer real-world advice for those looking to grow personally and professionally.

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