What 88% of Millionaires Don’t Do
Most financial advice tells you what to do to build wealth.
Today, let’s flip it. Let’s talk about what 88% of millionaires don’t do.
Because the habits you avoid can be just as powerful as the ones you adopt.
These insights come from studies like The Millionaire Next Door, Everyday Millionaires by Chris Hogan, and research from Ramsey Solutions, Fidelity, and others who’ve studied real-world wealth.
Here’s what they found.
1. They Don’t Inherit Their Wealth
Only 8% of millionaires received an inheritance over $100,000.
And 79%+ are first-generation rich.
Translation? Most didn’t start with money. They built it.
2. They Don’t Overspend
Millionaires live on less than they make.
They drive used cars. They shop at regular stores.
They value freedom over flash.
3. They Don’t Carry Credit Card Debt
They might use credit cards—but they pay them off in full every month.
Millionaires understand interest is either earned or paid. They choose to earn it.
4. They Don’t Try to Time the Market
They aren’t jumping in and out of stocks.
They invest consistently, often into boring index funds.
And they stay invested, even when the market dips.
5. They Don’t Chase Get-Rich-Quick Schemes
No crypto gambling. No lottery tickets. No hot stock tips.
They build wealth slowly, steadily, and intentionally.
It’s not sexy. It’s just effective.
6. They Don’t Ignore Their Finances
They track their net worth.
They know what they spend.
They automate their savings and investments.
Money doesn’t rule their life—but they do pay attention.
7. They Don’t Rely on One Income Stream
Many millionaires have side hustles, small businesses, rental properties, or dividend income.
They understand: income creates options. And more income, properly invested, builds wealth faster.
8. They Don’t Let Lifestyle Creep Win
As income goes up, lifestyle stays steady.
They don’t feel the need to upgrade their house, car, or wardrobe every time they get a raise.
They build margin—and invest it.
9. They Don’t Skip Retirement Contributions
They contribute consistently to IRAs, 401(k)s, and HSAs.
They automate investing and let time do the heavy lifting.
10. They Don’t Wait for Permission
They don’t wait for a boss, parent, or government to “make it easier.”
They take control of what they can control—then get to work.
Bottom Line
If you want to build wealth, start by not doing what most broke people do.
Most millionaires are just regular people who avoided debt, stayed consistent, lived below their means—and gave compound interest enough time to do its job.
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying focused.
And doing less of what keeps most people stuck.
