5 Unexpected Habits of Millionaires That Have Nothing to Do with Money

When we think of millionaires, we often picture lavish lifestyles, financial investments, or high-paying jobs. But what if some of their success actually comes from surprisingly non-financial habits? Here’s a look at five unexpected, non-monetary habits of millionaires that can inspire anyone, regardless of financial status.

1. Intentional Reading

The Habit: Most millionaires are voracious readers, but not in the way you’d expect. They’re selective about what they read, often focusing on self-improvement, history, biographies, or other knowledge-expanding subjects.

Why It Works: Reading deeply, rather than skimming for entertainment, provides insights into human nature, problem-solving, and success stories. By gaining these perspectives, millionaires sharpen their minds and broaden their understanding of the world, making better, more informed decisions. Reading about history, psychology, or even other industries offers new lenses through which to view challenges, making them more adaptive and innovative.

2. Practicing Mindfulness and Meditation

The Habit: Many successful people, including self-made millionaires, are dedicated to mindfulness or meditation practices. They spend time each day engaging in activities like meditation, journaling, or simply sitting in silence.

Why It Works: By practicing mindfulness, they’re training themselves to focus, de-stress, and tune into their thoughts. This practice is invaluable for emotional regulation and staying calm under pressure, which are both critical in high-stakes environments. Beyond that, it fosters creativity. With a clearer mind, they’re more open to new ideas and can generate innovative solutions, all while maintaining a sense of calm and control that’s essential for sustainable success.

3. Saying “No” (a Lot)

The Habit: Contrary to popular belief, millionaires are exceptionally disciplined about saying “no.” They’re protective of their time and energy, only investing in activities, projects, or relationships that align with their values and goals.

Why It Works: The power of saying “no” allows them to avoid the trap of busywork or distractions that dilute focus. By keeping commitments streamlined, they avoid burnout and spend time on what truly matters. This selective approach creates room for deep, focused work, leading to higher-quality output and greater satisfaction in both professional and personal life. It also enables them to focus on self-care, relationships, and other pursuits that improve overall well-being.

4. Prioritizing Health and Fitness

The Habit: Millionaires are often highly conscious of their physical health. They don’t necessarily spend hours in the gym but prioritize consistent exercise, healthy eating, and enough rest to stay mentally and physically sharp.

Why It Works: Physical health isn’t just about longevity; it impacts productivity, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. By investing in their health, they experience higher energy levels and better cognitive function, which helps them think more clearly and make better decisions. Exercise is also a known stress reducer, making it easier for them to tackle daily challenges. Prioritizing health is a proactive choice that pays dividends in every area of life, not just financially.

5. Building (and Valuing) Strong Relationships

The Habit: Millionaires tend to surround themselves with people who inspire, challenge, and support them. They invest time in building meaningful connections, often giving more than they take, which creates a strong, supportive network.

Why It Works: Relationships bring value beyond the professional or financial. They provide emotional support, motivation, and even diverse perspectives on challenges and ideas. Millionaires understand that a strong network can offer inspiration, accountability, and genuine friendship, making their journey richer and more fulfilling. This network also acts as a safety net, providing resources, ideas, and support in times of need.

Final Thoughts

Each of these habits has little to do with wealth-building strategies or financial acumen, but they create a mindset and lifestyle that support sustained success and happiness. These surprising habits give insight into how the world’s most successful people build resilience, prioritize their mental and physical health, and focus on what truly matters. So, if you’re looking for a millionaire habit to adopt, start with these—your future self will thank you.