Living in a time where we’re constantly bombarded with messaging and nuances that epitomise the hustle – chasing popularity, likes, influence and money – your resistance to the title of this book is understandable.   But, author, Robin Sharma, is not against the pursuit of any of these things – he’s simply advocating that your mission be motivated by more than just money, material and status.

It’s an easy yet explorative and engaging read.  Sharma takes you along into scenic sites, tranquil and inspirational corners he lands himself in during the writing of the various chapters of the book.  Whilst you enjoy traveling the world in the comfort of your home, he candidly introduces you to the many friends and acquaintances that have taught him profound lessons over the years in his personal life and professional life as a leadership development expert.  From the amazing waitress at a quaint restaurant that serves exotic teas to his kick-ass mom to basketball legends Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal and game changer Kenny Sailors.

Whether intentional or not, as you page through The Wealth Money Can’t Buy, Sharma succeeds in being the person you meet and instantly become friends with.

The book more than delivers on profound, simple and actionable recommendations – with endless moments of ‘I-must-note-this!’ – as it reveals the various forms of wealth(s).  Of the eight wealth(s) outlined as habits, these two inspired this review, 1) Craft:  The Work as a Platform for Purpose Habit and 2) Community: The You Become Your Social Network Habit.

Some themes recurring and carefully coded throughout the chapters are:

• The importance of being super intentional

Being crystal clear about what’s important and striking a balance in how you use your time and energy in society where it’s underrated in society.  For many, hours can go by scrolling absently through social media feeds – not even aware of the guilt and shame felt subconsciously for being stuck in such self-defeating habits.  The book offers multiple lessons and formulas on how to be fully present and intentional with your priorities.

• Back to basics is the new extra-ordinary

In true Sharma style, he raises a point that by going back to basics you increase your chances of standing out and become a remarkable human being.  It makes sense considering that a simple act of sending a hand-written ‘thank you’ note has become a rare gesture.  And basic principles such as being on time, sincerity or a strong work ethic have become a scarce commodity – yet more necessary than ever before.

• You’ll always play better when you play better players

In the section Community: The You Become Your Social Network Habit, the book encourages that you consider stepping out of your comfort zone by challenging yourself to play the game of life with those ahead of you.   Doing it in a way that is meaningful, reciprocal and wholesome.  You’ll learn that, contrary to popular belief, levelling up is possible without playing dirty games and manipulative tactics.

• Being unapologetically authentic is key to your purpose

In a world where being homogenous is favoured over originality, this book encourages you to courageously embrace and express your ‘difference’.  In the process, your purpose becomes your wealth.  This advice is key as many are searching for their purpose yet are not willing to take the risk that comes with being authentic and being true to their opinions, questions and principles.

Admittedly, the book would be incomplete without a section unpacking a wealth that is money – Money: The Prosperity as Fuel for Freedom Habit.  Sharma dives in deep as he shares close to thirty lessons from his billionaire clients – yet, even in this money chapter he manages to reign us back into being humane to achieve financial success – with teachings such as Being Good is Good Business and Greedy is Not Happy.

This book will challenge some of your beliefs and inspire you to shift mentally and emotionally so that you can design a life where money is working for you as opposed to you working for money.

“Money should be a gateway into goodness instead of a prison that destroys your happiness.” – Robin Shama, The Wealth Money Can’t Buy.