The True Wealth of Being a Time Billionaire
As I approach another year of life—I can’t help but reflect on what this next season of life means.
Turning 40 signifies new growth, transformation, and transitioning from one great task to another.
One concept that has truly changed my perspective is something called "The Time Billionaire."
The phrase, coined by investor Graham Duncan, puts it in clear terms:
“A billion seconds is slightly over 31 years… when I see 20-year-olds,
I think—they probably have about two billion seconds left.
But they aren’t relating to themselves as time billionaires.”
We often hear the saying, "Time is Money!"
But honestly, that’s one of the biggest lies ever told.
Time is infinitely more valuable than money!
That’s why being a Time Billionaire is even more precious than being a Financial Billionaire—if we invest this asset wisely.
Too many people don’t realize the value of time until it’s gone.
For me, being a time billionaire isn’t about simply having the time.
It’s about being aware of the precious nature of the time you do have, valuing it, and embracing life’s shortness while finding joy in the everyday moments.
Have you ever looked at the data on the limited time we get with our children? It’s shocking.
Time with our kids peaks in our 30s and declines sharply after that.
It feels like a blur. That’s why it’s so important to be present in every moment with them.
The same goes for time spent with our parents and siblings.
Once those moments are gone, they’re gone for good.
We have to slow down, breathe it all in, and cherish the beauty of the present.
Too often, we spend our lives anticipating the future:
- “I can’t wait until I get a job so I can [X].”
- “I can’t wait until I quit my job so I can [Y].”
- “I can’t wait until I have a $100k month so I can [Z].”
It’s the human condition, but it’s a game we’ll never win because we constantly move the goalpost.
We’re always living for what’s next instead of fully embracing now.
The reality is, we waste so much energy on the past and the future when the present is the only thing that’s truly guaranteed.
So, let’s spend it wisely—with those we love, creating memories we’ll never regret.
The concept of the time billionaire has transformed how I see and live my life. I hope it does the same for you.
Until next time,
Marquel
P.S. Shout out to my guy Kevin Buford for capturing another one of those off-guard moments! 😊