5 Things Millionaires Don't Want You to Know | Lighthouse Financial

5 Things Millionaires Don’t Want You to Know Episode 158

Join Mike and James as they explore the results of the biggest survey ever done on millionaires, uncovering the habits that make and keep them rich while also debunking common myths.

Myth 1: The Only Way To Be Rich Is To Have A Rich Family

  • Contrary to popular belief, an overwhelming 79% of surveyed millionaires did not rely on family inheritances to amass their fortunes.
  • Merely 21% received any inheritance at all, and a mere 3% inherited sums exceeding $1 million.
  • This study underscores the significance of disciplined financial strategies over banking on familial wealth. Millionaires attribute their success to consistent investment, prudent spending habits, and steering clear of detrimental debts. In essence, they’ve paved their path to prosperity through financial acumen rather than relying on inherited riches.

Myth 2: Millionaires Don’t Budget

  • Contrary to the notion that the affluent eschew budgeting, a significant 85% of millionaires employ some form of a grocery list to manage expenses.
  • Moreover, the majority limit their monthly restaurant expenditures to $200 or less, with an overwhelming 93% leveraging coupons while shopping.
  • This data highlights the astute financial management practiced by millionaires, emphasising the importance of controlling expenses and adhering to disciplined spending habits. Far from disregarding budgeting, millionaires recognise its pivotal role in fostering long-term financial stability and success.

Myth 3: Day Trading Is A Good Way To Get Rich Quick


  • Despite its portrayal as a fast track to riches, the study found no correlation between day trading and financial success among millionaires.
  • Surprisingly, not a single participant attributed their wealth to stock picking.
  • Rather, a substantial 75% underscored the significance of regular, consistent investing over an extended period as the primary driver of wealth accumulation. This underscores the importance of disciplined investment strategies over speculative and risky short-term trading practices.

Myth 4: Millionaires Make A Huge Income


  • Despite the assumption that high earners automatically become millionaires, the reality differs significantly.
  • Only a mere 15% of surveyed millionaires held senior leadership positions with substantial incomes.
  • An overwhelming 93% of millionaires accrued their wealth through diligent hard work rather than relying on hefty salaries. This dispels the notion that a large income is a prerequisite for becoming wealthy.
  • The study emphasises the importance of prudent financial decisions and disciplined saving and investing habits, highlighting that anyone, regardless of their income level, can achieve financial success through smart financial management.

Myth 5: You Need To Have An Elite Education To Be Wealthy


  • Despite the common belief that attending prestigious universities is a ticket to wealth, the reality is quite different.
  • Merely 8% of surveyed millionaires had the privilege of attending prestigious universities.
  • A significant 62% of millionaires graduated from public or state schools, challenging the assumption that an elite education is essential for financial success.
  • The study underscores the importance of practical financial management skills and long-term planning over educational pedigree, suggesting that success is more about smart decision-making than academic credentials.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In conclusion, the study reveals that millionaire wealth is often achieved through disciplined financial strategies, smart budgeting, and wise investments, debunking common myths about inheritance, income, and education. By embracing prudent financial habits, anyone can pave their way to long-term financial success, regardless of their background or financial status.

  1. Disciplined Financial Strategies: Millionaires emphasise the significance of disciplined financial strategies over relying on inherited wealth. Consistent investment, prudent spending habits, and avoiding detrimental debts are crucial for paving the path to prosperity.
  2. Budgeting and Financial Management: Despite assumptions that the affluent don’t budget, the majority of millionaires employ budgeting techniques such as grocery lists and coupon usage. Controlling expenses and adhering to disciplined spending habits play a pivotal role in achieving long-term financial stability.
  3. Smart Investment Practices: Day trading is not a reliable shortcut to wealth, as evidenced by the study’s findings. Instead, millionaires attribute their success to regular, consistent investing over time. Disciplined investment strategies outweigh risky short-term trading practices.

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