"It is not possible to live a really complete or successful life unless one is rich."

I read that first sentence in The Science of Getting Rich and nearly slammed the book shut. It felt cruel, shallow, out of touch.

Now that I’ve finished it? I completely agree.

Not because you need Zuck-level billions, but because wealth gives you the resources to give back, live with purpose, and, most importantly, be free.

Ex-VC. I like making bread (literally and figuratively) 

likes building things • https://alexgrover.me/links

I think the book would consider those people to be “rich.” Wealth isn’t just money— it’s freedom and agency. If you have control over your time, choices, and lifestyle without constant financial stress, you’re already living ‘richly.’

It’s possible to do that without being rich too. Plenty of expats, vanlifers, tradespeople in low cost of living areas that work to live, have a community, and are happy. You just have to make more trade offs if you don’t have money.

I had this convo with my 7 year old on a walk yesterday.  I’ll check out the book.

sounds like a good read. thanks for sharing sugar bear