Tony Robbins, in his book Money Master the Game, outlines the steps involved in building wealth.

Tony is a role model to me. He’s incredibly talented at simplifying complex situations.

These are Tony’s five levels of wealth.

1. Financial security

This is your minimum income to pay for your housing, utilities, and food. This level of wealth allows you to explore other avenues for making money. It’s a little effort to pay your bills every day.

2. Financial vitality

This level is where you have enough money for all your basic needs plus any extras like fine clothing, entertainment, and dining out.

3. Financial independence

You will have enough money to live the lifestyle you are used to, completely free from work. Your wealth will cover all your expenses and some luxuries. This is what my wife and I are currently in.

4. Financial freedom

Tony refers to this level as having everything you have now and a few luxuries you desire for the future. You don’t even have to work for these luxuries. To me, this sounds a lot like fat FIRE.

Absolute financial freedom is when you can spend as much or as little as you want without having to work. You can travel wherever you like, anytime, and in the most luxurious hotels.

Tony jokes, “How would you feel if your family didn’t have to desire anything anymore?”

That would be amazing.

Upgrading

When you are just starting, financial freedom and early retirement may seem daunting. Seeing the journey as a series of smaller, more manageable steps is more accessible.

It is interesting to see Tony distinguish between “financial independence and financial freedom.” However, many people use them interchangeably.

Although labels are helpful, they don’t represent the essence of things. It’s not necessary to label things. What is more important is the wealth, experience, money, and wealth each household can create.

My personal financial goals have changed over time and will continue to change. I want to go from level 3 to 4 and reach Tony’s financial freedom definition.

What level of wealth do you want to achieve in the next five or ten years? In my live Q&A this weekend, I will discuss different wealth levels.