In business, success is often measured by the size of your bank account, the deals you close, or the possessions you accumulate. But after years of entrepreneurship and building a thriving company, I’ve learned that true wealth isn’t found in numbers. It’s found in experiences—the relationships you build, the time you spend, and the moments that make life meaningful.
And let’s be honest, if money alone made people happy, billionaires wouldn’t be on their fourth divorce and yelling at their assistants for bringing the wrong brand of sparkling water.
The Power of Genuine Connections
As a businessman who has done better than most, I could easily distance myself from people who don’t share my financial status. But what would be the point? Money alone does not create happiness. Some of the most miserable people in the world are those who believe their self-worth is tied to their net worth. They chase the next dollar, yet they never feel satisfied.
Real fulfillment comes from something much simpler—genuine connections. Meeting new people, shaking hands, sharing a laugh, and getting to know someone for who they truly are is one of the most rewarding feelings in life.
I make a point to connect with everyone I encounter, no matter their status or job title. I’ve even gotten to know quite a few baggage handlers at the airport. Just showing up to drop off a friend, several of them will come over, shake my hand, ask about my family, or when I’m traveling next. The smiles I receive are genuine because I’m genuine with each and every person I meet—sometimes to a fault. These guys work hard, often overlooked by the people rushing past them. But to me, they’re just as important as any business associate.
The Small Things That Bring the Biggest Joy
Let me give you a few examples of what truly brings happiness.
Yesterday morning, my wife surprised me with breakfast in bed, along with a cup of her amazing Dominican coffee. That first sip, combined with her warm smile, was worth more than the tallest skyscraper in Manhattan.
Later that day, I got a text from a friend asking why I hadn’t been out for a beer in a while. I had been recovering from surgery and stuck at home for a month. He was right—it was time to get back out. So I drove a few minutes down the road and spent hours hanging out, talking about life, laughing, and just being present. Some of us have money, some don’t, but none of that matters. That time together was worth more than a brick of gold.
And then there’s family. Yesterday, my daughters and I spent the afternoon in town, grabbing a bite and simply watching life go by. My oldest daughter is about to head off to college. Seeing her grow from a little girl into an independent woman is priceless. Moments like these remind me that no business meeting, no deal, no financial gain could ever replace the value of time spent with loved ones.
Happiness comes in different forms for different people. One of my most loyal employees, a guy who’s been with me for years, finds peace in something as simple as feeding wild birds in his backyard. He tells me about how he watches them every morning, learning their patterns, recognizing individual birds, and just enjoying the quiet beauty of nature. That is real happiness. Not the number on a paycheck, not the size of a house—just a man and his birds, appreciating life in its purest form.
Connecting With Nature—An Underrated Luxury
Beyond friendships, family, and good business, there’s something about nature that humbles you. It reminds you that life isn’t just about hustle and ambition—it’s about balance.
I can sit on my porch, feel the ocean breeze, and watch the waves roll in, and in that moment, there’s nothing I need. No deal, no phone call, no meeting could replace that kind of peace. Even my cat, who normally has zero respect for personal space, seems to get it—perching next to me, watching the birds, probably contemplating world domination but enjoying the moment nonetheless.
Nature has a way of stripping life down to what really matters. Whether it’s a quiet walk, listening to the rain, or just breathing in fresh air—those moments are worth more than anything money can buy.
Business Is About People, Not Just Profits (And A Little Bit About Fun, Too!)
Don’t get me wrong—I love business. I enjoy meeting other entrepreneurs, discussing ideas, and growing ventures. But I don’t see my interactions as mere transactions. I see them as opportunities to build relationships.
When I meet with business owners, I don’t just try to sell them on my company. I take the time to get to know them. I’ll grab a drink or a meal with them, share stories, and give advice—sometimes without expecting anything in return. Maybe that’s why I’ve been successful. People recognize authenticity. They know when someone is being real. And in business, trust is far more valuable than any contract or commission.
And let’s not forget—laughter is part of the deal. If you’re not having fun in business, you’re doing it wrong. Some of my best meetings have been the ones where jokes flew faster than business pitches. There’s something about humor that breaks down barriers and builds real connections.
The Value of Life’s Simple Pleasures
Beyond business, family, and friends, I find joy in the simplest things—like my pets. I have two dogs, a cat, an exotic bird, and even an iguana. Each has its own personality, and each connection is unique.
• The iguana enjoys a little neck rub (whether he admits it or not).
• The cat loves to play and cause trouble.
• The bird sings and dances like he’s auditioning for a talent show.
• The dogs, well, they’re dogs. They love attention, playtime, and most of all, food!
Spending time with them, watching them react, feeling their energy—it’s a reminder of how life’s greatest joys don’t come with a price tag.
The True Measure of Wealth
When I reflect on what really matters, it’s never the money. It’s the moments—the small, seemingly insignificant moments that make life rich beyond measure.
A cup of coffee with my wife.
A beer with friends.
A conversation with a new acquaintance.
A hug from my children.
A wagging tail or a chirping bird.
A simple moment of peace, watching nature.
A good laugh at the right time.
These are the things that make life fulfilling. These are the things that make a person truly wealthy.
So if you’re chasing success, remember this: Business matters, but life’s experiences matter more. Build relationships. Take time to appreciate the small things. Enjoy nature. Laugh often. Because in the end, the real currency of life isn’t money—it’s the moments that make you smile, the connections that make you feel alive, and the experiences that make life worth living.
Thanks for reading. If you like this or any other articles, please make sure and check out my favorite company at Green.Money™.
-Lonnie Passoff
Founder and President
About the Author:
Lonnie Passoff pioneered the first internet-only eDebit processing gateway in 2008, a groundbreaking platform that has served over 40,000 merchants and more than 1,000 Independent Sales Organizations (ISOs), handling billions in transaction volume. A United States Army veteran, he has built a multi-million-dollar fortune through principled and astute business strategies. A sought-after speaker at business conventions, he also serves as a paid advisor to numerous corporations. His leadership extends to board positions with both corporate and nonprofit entities, including a notable Clean Ocean Initiative in the Caribbean.
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