How to think like a millionaire: A guide to handling wealth

How the wealthy manage their millions in 2026 / Photo: Shutterstock

Take a closer look at the rules and habits of the world’s richest people — perhaps some of them will find a place in your life. Ultimately, success is not just about big ideas, but also the result of daily choices that truly lead to your goals.

The rule of spending less than you earn

Investor Warren Buffett built his fortune by buying stakes in companies that make everyday products, from Coca-Cola and Duracell batteries to Apple devices.

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Buffett bought his first home in 1958 for $31,000 and still lives there today, despite later acquiring major airlines and hotel chains. His habit is simple: Even as his income grew, he did not replace his old car or significantly increase his lifestyle, continuing to live well below his means.

The rule of buying what you need in bulk

Investor and Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is known for negotiating prices and paying cash. At age 12, he sold garbage bags to neighbors to save for sneakers and later began his career selling computer software.

Even after becoming a billionaire, Cuban kept the habit of buying everyday essentials such as toothpaste and household cleaning products in large quantities when they are on sale. If you use these items regularly, purchasing them at a 40% discount is effectively the same as earning an immediate 40% return.

The rule of not overspending

Amancio Ortega, founder of Zara and one of Europe’s richest individuals, reportedly has no private office and eats modest lunches in a shared company dining room alongside designers and logistics staff.

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Ortega believes that once a business leader detaches from everyday reality and enters a world of extreme luxury, they risk losing sight of both the value of money and the needs of the mass market.

The 50/30/20 rule

Elizabeth Warren, a politician, former Harvard law professor and leading bankruptcy expert, developed a framework for financial stability after years of studying why families suddenly lose their savings. The formula later became widely known as the 50/30/20 rule.

Under this approach, 50% of income goes to essential expenses, 30% to discretionary spending and 20% strictly to debt repayment or investments.

This structure ensures that a portion of your money is always working toward your future. Over time, it creates a durable saving habit and turns saving from an occasional choice into a consistent, self-sustaining practice.