How to Get Richer in One Weekend—Without Chasing Money
When people talk about getting rich, the first thing that comes to mind is usually money. But what if the real wealth starts with investing in yourself—your skills, your health, your life experiences? Sure, earning a lot is great, but sometimes, the simplest way to grow your wealth in the long run is to start by growing yourself.
This means putting time and energy into your own development. It’s about stepping back, looking at your life, and making space for new experiences and learning. Sometimes, life throws unexpected events at us—things we didn’t see coming. These moments can weigh us down, fill our minds with stress, and distract us from what really matters, whether it’s our personal life, our business, or our work.
One of the best ways I’ve found to get perspective is by taking a real break—a retreat. Bill Gates made this idea famous with his “Think Weeks.” He would disappear for a week, with no electronics, just paper, notebooks, and something to write with. He’d use this time to reflect, write, and think deeply. No one knew where he was, and he had someone to cook for him. Back then, there were only computers—no smartphones—so it was easier to disconnect.
I’ve done this myself many times. I’m a big fan of what I call “Hermit Weekends.” The idea is simple: you isolate yourself for a weekend, away from your usual environment, and you get a lot done. There’s also the “Think Week,” which is more about stepping back, reflecting on your life, and just breathing. If something unexpected has happened in your life, taking a weekend away from everything—somewhere outside the city, maybe in the mountains or by the sea—can make a huge difference.
Right now, I’m sitting in front of Elizabeth Bay in Be Park. The weather changes quickly here—an hour ago it was sunny and hot, now it’s cooler and cloudy. I’ve even swum in this bay (though you have to watch out for sharks—there was an attack not long ago, but thankfully the person survived). Still, the place is beautiful and safe, and I recommend finding your own spot to take a break and breathe.
Taking time to do nothing is powerful. Just being present, admiring what’s around you, can change everything. I suggest you try this, even if you think you already know a lot about personal growth. There’s always something new to learn. If you want to get ahead, these breaks can really help.
You don’t need a lot of money or time. Even a few hours—three, four, or five—can make a difference. If you live in Europe, it’s easy to take a cheap flight somewhere new for a weekend. I used to leave on Thursday night, work remotely from an Airbnb on Friday, then explore the area after work and over the weekend. It’s a small trip, but you can do it twice a month if you want.
Yes, it costs money, but you can never get time back. When you lose time, that’s life you can’t recover. Money comes and goes, but life experiences are priceless. Even if you feel you don’t have enough money or time, the truth is, you’ll never have “enough.” There will always be surprises, new expenses, more things to do. The right moment is now.
I’m about to head back to work after my little break here. I love taking these moments for myself. Instead of suffering through life or thinking, “I don’t like my life,” remember—you can always change things. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it means making sacrifices, but you are responsible for your life. You have the answer. Ask yourself: What do I want to do with my life? What can I do now?
If you’re not happy, it’s easy to blame others or circumstances, but the answer is in your hands. Everything is possible. Of course, it takes effort and action, and sometimes it’s scary. But the best time to act is today. Look at what you can start doing tonight, or tomorrow, to make your days better.
“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now.”
— Chinese Proverb
“You are the only one responsible for your life. No one else can do it for you.”
— Anonymous
Key Takeaways
- Invest in yourself—skills, health, and experiences matter more than money.
- Take real breaks to reflect and recharge, even just for a weekend.
- Don’t wait for the “right” time; it never comes. Start now.
- You are responsible for your own happiness and growth.
Action Steps
- Plan a “Hermit Weekend” or a few hours alone away from your usual routine.
- Reflect on what you want from your life and what you can change today.
- Remember: time is more valuable than money—use it wisely.
Reflection
- When was the last time you truly took a break for yourself?
- What’s stopping you from taking action right now?
- What small step can you take today to become a richer version of yourself?
Pierre-Henry Soria
#Australian Method #Entrepreneurship #Investing in Yourself #Mindset #Money #Personal-Growth #Self-Improvement #Tasks #Wealth