Sudden Wealth Syndrome Is Real
This behavior is common and has a name: Sudden Wealth Syndrome – symptoms include heightened stress, guilt, social isolation, mistrust of others, and poor spending habits. Sudden wealth can also cause a person to feel so conflicted that they don’t take any actions at all.
As a financial planner, I have seen people take the following actions soon after receiving a financial windfall:
- Quit their job before they have a new one lined up.
- Decide to do a major remodel on their home instead of their previously planned appliance upgrade or fresh paint.
- Buy family members expensive gifts.
- Give money to family or friends who are in need.
- Buy expensive cars (a Tesla instead of a Prius).
- Take luxurious vacations.
Is It Possible To Not Get Caught In The Sudden Wealth Trap?
Yes, here are a few ideas:
Develop Mindfulness. Think deeply about what you want to do with the money to match your values, and make decisions with clarity to use the windfall wisely and well. Talk to your trusted circle – a friend or family member, a therapist, or advisor – before making any large purchases or life-changing decisions.
Try not make any large purchases until you’ve had a chance to make your dream list and pare it down to realistic priorities before you write the checks.
Sudden Wealth Creates Opportunities
Sudden wealth creates opportunities– for security, for pleasure, for doing good – but without careful planning, it can create headaches (and heartaches too). With a plan in place, you can avoid the negatives (regret, remorse, guilt), and embrace the positive outcomes from a financial windfall.
Take The Next Step
Download our free guide to find out what to do if you’re experiencing the symptoms of sudden wealth syndrome, and learn what your next steps should be to adjust to and maintain your newfound wealth.
