When we look for ways to successfully build wealth it is a sure indication we have not obtained the level of wealth we desire. Why is it we are on a wealth building search when others are living their dream? Chances are we have not allowed ourselves to reach the dream. We get in our own way and don’t make the proper changes to let it happen. The first step is to define what wealth means to us.

Building wealth means different things to different people. Someone with high aspirations may put a monetary figure on it. Wealth to them is having the newest car, the nicest house, the best food, the fanciest clothes, and the exotic vacations. Someone of modest means may put it in a different light. They desire enough money to support their family adequately but find great wealth in attending their children’s activities, playing golf or tennis, having time to read a book or just relax in their own thoughts. And of course some people want it all. Regardless of the level of wealth someone desires there will be changes necessary to attain it. The key is to identify what is necessary.

When we identify what needs to change we must step out of our comfort zone. Building wealth requires a look inside to determine what has held us back. For many it is as simple as they never applied themselves. They have the desire but not the drive. Once they get motivated they will succeed. For others it is not as simple. Fear is one of the strongest forces preventing our success. It may be the fear of change or the fear others may pass judgment. Some people don’t even consider improving their situation as an option. They may have an overwhelming sense of helplessness. These people would typically not be reading any self help article.

If building wealth is worth the risk and we have the determination we can change our circumstances. Once we accurately identify what holds us back we can look at ways to implement changes. If fear is holding us back we analyze why. Usually fear is overrated. When we ask "what is the worst that could happen" and if the worst happens "what will be necessary to recover" we typically find the reward is worth the risk. If our lack of education is holding us back in a particular career we need to look at whether furthering our education will get us where we want to be in this career or it might require changing careers. The prospect of changing careers may bring us back to the fear. There is only one person to control this.

We have to look to ourselves when we are building wealth. Other people can help along the way but the person to look to is our self. We are the reason whether we are progressing or not. If we want to make more money it can be as simple as work more hours, but this is rarely the case. If we want to spend more time with our family we have to make the time to do so. If income or work hours don’t allow for it, something has to change. Find a job with flexible hours. Find a job with better pay, reduced hours, or more vacation time. Work from home. If everything remains the same and we do not believe it is worth the risk to make a change then building wealth will always be an abstract though left unrealized.

1.   Identify what wealth means to us.
   

2.   Identify what holds us back.
   

3.   Analyze why it holds us back.
   

4.   Implement changes to achieve success.
   

No matter what our family situation or employment situation we have to take responsibility for our destiny!