20 Secrets Of The Wealthiest People On The Planet, As Told By The People Who Work For Them
Even the richest people lose their Tupperware lids.
Some people don’t recognize a favor, and the wealthy world can turn that into a lifestyle. These stories come from the people who worked closest to the money, the ones who watched big decisions get made like they were casual errands.
In one case, a French family treated a countryside castle like a “weekend home,” then admitted they didn’t inherit the drama, they bought their own solution. In another, a longtime maid raised a wealthy man through his childhood, only to get fired over the phone when the family packed up and moved. And then there’s the private-jet-level scheduling, where a dog needs delivery service and a human assistant needs a seat, all while awards voting somehow happens mid-chaos.
By the time you reach the castle, the phone call, and the jet itinerary, you realize the real secret is how casually people can disconnect from the humans around them.
1. They bought their own castle
A wealthy French family enjoyed visiting their "weekend home" at least twice a month. It was essentially a castle in the countryside. Out of curiosity, I asked the daughter if they inherited it. She replied that the drama surrounding the inherited castle led to conflicts among her uncles and aunts, so they simply "bought their own castle." As Dr. Harville Hendrix, a renowned relationship expert, notes, "Family dynamics can often complicate inherited wealth, leading individuals to seek alternatives that minimize conflict" (harvillehendrix.com).
Phil Desforges/pexels2. He fired her over the phone
My dad was friends with a wealthy individual who shared a passion for vintage cars. While my dad owned one, this affluent person had a collection.Interestingly, this individual had a maid who had been with the family since before he was born. With his parents often absent, she played a pivotal role in his upbringing.She provided meals, took him to school, and fulfilled the nurturing roles typically associated with parents. Having worked in that expansive home for over 30 years, she became almost like family.While other staff members such as cooks and cleaners would come and go, her presence was a constant. However, when the wealthy individual decided to relocate to the U.S. and sold the house, he terminated her employment over the phone, without a proper farewell. This experience taught me that some wealthy individuals may not recognize the humanity in those less fortunate.- Dr. Michael Thompson, child psychologist
cottonbro studio/pexels3. He'd pay people to do whatever he wanted
Private jet to deliver their dog and black car service (me) to pick up the dog then pick up an assistant off another private jet so she could dog sit while they voted on James Beard awards. As Dr. Michele Gelfand, a cultural psychologist, notes, "The ultra-wealthy often operate in a different social sphere, where their norms and behaviors can seem foreign to the average person" (michelegelfand.com).Giving away all the furniture in a house to their domestic servants because it didn't go with the new theme and was too much trouble to sell. This was very kind but I always think it's funny that there's a landscaper out there with a $50k couch. According to financial columnist Jean Chatzky, "Wealth can alter perspectives on value and generosity, leading to decisions that may seem extravagant or whimsical" (jeanchatzky.com).Super rich guy asking his other super rich friends if they ever went to a low end bar and did a "human circus." Said he'd pay people to do whatever he wanted. Said they were drunk and needed money and thought everyone was having fun. These guys were all obscenely wealthy and all his friends pretty much told him that was a f****d up thing to do. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, explains, "The disconnect between wealth and empathy can lead to behaviors that are perceived as exploitative or insensitive" (drramani.com).
Yuri G./unsplash
Wealth and Mindset
The castle plan sounded like a neat fix until you remember the conflicts it was supposed to avoid in the first place.
Networking emerges as a common theme among the wealthiest individuals.
4. He casually wrote out a cheque for $5 million
Reddit/owlsandmoths
5. It was heartbreaking
"Children in high-pressure environments often face emotional challenges, especially when separated from their parents at a young age," says Dr. Madeline Levine, child psychologist. "It's crucial for parents to recognize the emotional needs of their children during such transitions." In one instance, a nanny shared that she witnessed a middle child sobbing himself to sleep, dreading the impending boarding school experience. The parents, while kind, seemed detached from the emotional turmoil their child faced, reflecting a common attitude of, "We went through it, so he must too." The youngest child, only two, preferred the nanny's comfort over his mother's, highlighting the emotional disconnect. "Parental involvement is vital for healthy development," Dr. Levine emphasizes, underscoring the importance of nurturing relationships over titles and social status.
Keira Burton/pexels
6. They had a LEGO room
Reddit/seabreaze68Report
Business strategist Simon Sinek emphasizes that the wealthiest individuals often surround themselves with top talent.
7. He sent the jet to get his lucky pen
While working with a prominent figure, I experienced a moment that highlighted their unique approach to business. As we prepared to sign a contract, the assistant realized she had forgotten "the" pen.This pen was not just any writing instrument; it had been used to sign all the pivotal deals that shaped his early success. He insisted that she immediately retrieve it from the jet, illustrating the importance he placed on this ritual. As a gesture of goodwill for the delay, he added 20% to the deal, demonstrating that for the wealthy, money often feels like an abstract concept. As financial expert David Bach notes, "Wealthy individuals often view money as a tool to create more opportunities rather than a finite resource."
Álvaro Serrano/unsplash
8. Normal people shop at Wal-Mart
Those who work closely with the wealthiest individuals often reveal that their success is not just about financial acumen but also about a unique mindset. According to Dr. Shawn Achor, a positive psychology researcher, "Success is not just about what you accomplish in your life, it's about what you inspire others to do." This perspective is echoed by Dr. Dan Gilbert, who emphasizes that "the happiest people are those who are most connected to others." The wealthiest often prioritize relationships and well-being, understanding that their influence extends beyond their bank accounts. This holistic approach to wealth is crucial, as noted by Suze Orman, a financial advisor, who states, "It's not just about money; it's about the life you create with it." These insights highlight that true wealth encompasses emotional and social dimensions, not merely financial ones.
Reddit/breakingpoint214
9. He stole an Egyptian mummy
My boss has a wooden covering to what once encased an ancient Egyptian mummy.He is elderly and we were preparing items to be shipped to his daughter who lives overseas. We didn't send it because it is a known stolen artefact and will be confiscated at customs.
Narciso Arellano/unsplash
Then the story flips from “buy your own castle” to “fire her over the phone,” after that same family relied on one maid for over 30 years.
This echoes the AITA fight over whether you should expect a struggling friend to repay a significant loan.
Practical Money Management
clarkhoward.
Regularly reviewing financial goals and adjusting budgets can enhance financial discipline, ultimately leading to wealth accumulation.
10. She gets VIP service
"Experiences like wine tasting can be a way for the wealthy to enjoy their resources while building relationships," says Dr. Michele Weiner-Davis, a renowned marriage therapist and author. "It's not just about the luxury; it's about creating memorable moments with those who matter." Many affluent individuals often leverage their spending power to access exclusive experiences, such as complimentary tastings at high-end vineyards, as a means of social engagement."
Chelsea Pridham/unsplash
11. Imagine buying a yacht and never using it
Not me but the wife of an acquaintance told us a story of how she used to work for a wealthy businessman on his private yacht, but, he was never on it.She worked in the kitchen as one of the chefs and basically he would have his family or his friends use it when they were in town to save on having to have a hotel, they’d just stay on his yacht which she said in the 18 months she worked there, she only knew of him to use it himself once.I mean, can you just imagine having the kind of crazy money to buy a yacht in the first place, then just not f*****g using it?!
Diego F. Parra/pexels
12. Just a normal day
Many of the wealthiest individuals on the planet share common traits that contribute to their success. According to Tony Robbins, a renowned life coach, "The secret to success is learning how to use pain and pleasure instead of having pain and pleasure use you." This mindset allows them to take calculated risks and embrace challenges. Furthermore, Dave Ramsey, a financial educator, emphasizes the importance of discipline, stating, "Wealth is not about having a lot of money; it's about having a lot of options." These insights highlight that the wealthiest individuals often prioritize personal growth and financial literacy, which empowers them to navigate their journeys effectively.
Reddit/Cyber_Insecurity
And while one worker got cut off without a farewell, the next wealthy routine runs on private jets, a black car, and dog delivery like it’s normal.
Entrepreneurship expert Robert Kiyosaki explains that the wealthiest people often view money as a tool for creating opportunities rather than an end goal. This perspective encourages investment in education, assets, and experiences that enhance personal and professional growth.
Kiyosaki's approach emphasizes financial literacy as a vital skill for success.
13. Rich people are weird
During my time in New York, I worked at a prestigious hotel frequented by celebrities. One particularly bizarre experience was when a guest booked a honeymoon suite exclusively for their cat. It may sound unbelievable, but as Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a happiness researcher, notes, "Wealth can lead to eccentric behaviors, as the rich often have the means to indulge in whims that others cannot."
Natalie Bond/pexels
14. $100K for dinner sounds reasonable
"Experiences of extreme wealth often reveal a different relationship with money," says Dr. Barry Schwartz, choice researcher at barryschwartz.org. "For some, spending becomes a way to express power and status." In the early 90s, a Saudi prince exemplified this when he spent approximately $100,000 on a single dinner for his family.Shutting down a fine-dining restaurant for one night can cost around $30,000, especially when flying in a favorite chef from New York to prepare a lavish meal for not just his family but also the hotel staff and extensive security detail. "The act of tipping generously is often a reflection of one's appreciation for service," adds financial expert Jean Chatzky from jeanchatzky.com. This prince returned annually, renting the top four floors of the hotel for a month, accompanied by two 747s for himself and his staff of around 400 people. Such displays of wealth can be both fascinating and perplexing, highlighting the complexities of affluence," notes Dr. Helen Fisher, biological anthropologist at helenfisher.com.
Taryn Elliott/pexels
15. Problem solved
According to Jim Collins, a renowned business author, “The key to success for the wealthy often lies in their ability to focus on what truly matters and to cultivate a culture of discipline.” He emphasizes that wealthy individuals prioritize their time and resources effectively, which is echoed by Clark Howard, a consumer advocate who states, “Financial literacy and smart decision-making are crucial for building and maintaining wealth.” These insights highlight that the wealthiest people are not just lucky; they are strategic in their approach to life and finances, often seeking guidance from experts to navigate complex decisions.
Reddit/Embarrassed-Floor407
Building Resilience
Arianna Huffington, resilience is a key trait among the wealthiest individuals.
16. The trophy wife blues
Not me but an acquaintance of mine works as a senior engineer on huge mega yachts. The husband is barely there but the trophy wife (No 5) tens years younger than his youngest daughter, lives in it most of the time. All of the staff know to stay clear of the sun deck between 11.00 and 12.00 every morning. She comes up from her cabin, 3 stiff gins in and cries for an hour before lunch to herself. Every, f*****g, morning. The added kicker, the yacht is named after his first wife.- Cotford
Rachel Claire/pexels
17. Even the richest people lose their Tupperware lids
Reddit/anon
18. They're different behind closed doors
Lots of pill popping to handle stress- especially before speaking engagements. People always viewed them as friendly, engaging, and fun. Little did they know that was a public persona thanks to copious amounts of Ativan. In real life they were picky, obstinate, difficult, and a nightmare for all of us employees to deal with. We had to remember all of these particular preferences and abide by them always.
Henri Mathieu-Saint-Laurent/pexels
That’s when the James Beard voting trip and the dog-sitting assistant make it clear, these decisions are made on a different clock than everyone else’s life.
Understanding the emotional dynamics surrounding money is crucial for anyone looking to improve their financial health.
19. A feast fit for a Queen
My friend was a security guard for an elderly widow of a Dallas oil baron who lived on White Rock lake. She had a full time private chef and kitchen staff, although she lived there alone. He said the chef would cook huge beef roasts, turkeys, brisket, all kinds of food every day just to have available in case the old lady wanted something, which she rarely did. They weren’t allowed to give the leftover food away to the staff or anyone else, but had to throw it out every single day. And when the old lady requested ice water or iced tea or lemonade, if even one ice cube had cracks in it, she would make them throw it all out and make it again.- NiteGard
cottonbro studio/pexels
20. He paid to change the seats
Pumped a bunch of money into the Malibu City counsel in order to change a few seats. This would allow him to have the local ordinance changed so his front doors could be taller than 20 feet.
Hansjörg Keller/unsplash
What are your thoughts on these secrets of the wealthy? Did any of them shock you?
One thing's for sure. It would certainly be nice to have the problem of having too much money - it's fair to say that's a cross we would all be happy to bear!
We would love to hear your opinions on this. You can share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
In summary, the article highlights that grasping the habits and mindsets of the wealthiest individuals offers crucial insights for those aspiring to achieve financial success. The emphasis on adopting a mindset of abundance, collaborating with skilled individuals, and cultivating emotional intelligence illustrates that these strategies can significantly enhance one's financial well-being. The piece underscores the importance of practical steps like budgeting and networking while also advocating for resilience in the face of challenges. Ultimately, the journey toward wealth accumulation hinges on making informed choices and actively managing both financial decisions and personal development.
The weirdest part is how fast they can treat people like logistics.
Wait until you see why a friend refused to cover pet damage costs in his AITA post.
