Recently I was told that the embodiment of my concept, “Enjoy Your Wealth,” is frivolous. That considering the current economic situation, I should focus on safety instead. I disagree.

At first, I was annoyed, taken aback, even defensive. I thought, “this person simply does not get it.” After some reflection, though, I realized for so many people the word “wealth” is one dimensional.

To us, it is so much more.

Our brand, Enjoy Your Wealth, is intended to encapsulate all things we as human beings enjoy most. Wealth is not one dimensional, wealth is not solely monetary.

True wealth is inclusive of family, community, lifestyle and health.

The City of Toronto has grown and evolved significantly over the last 10 years. This is especially true in the world of real estate. For many, real estate is the staple of success. In order to get there, people make sacrifices to afford the seemingly unaffordable.

During these challenging times, we all have an opportunity to take a breath. To be grateful, to be present and to enjoy the things and people we have that make our lives fulfilled.

In taking this time, I am seeing how people are reassessing their value systems. A client who was actively seeking a home in Forest Hill has decided to look for a country property instead. A family home on sprawling acreage, similar to the farmland he grew up on. A place he and his family can get together to enjoy the peace and quiet outside of the city. During hard times, I believe we will see a newfound appreciation for what we have.

Appreciation is so easily overlooked when our lives get busy. Now is the time to truly value what is most important, rather than what we perceive or have been conditioned to believe so.

So, Enjoy your Wealth. Because your wealth is not measured by your bank statement or investment portfolio.

Your wealth is a collection of people and ideas that bring you peace, safety and security. Everything that embodies what makes you feel whole.

Let’s be thankful. Let’s remember the fragility of life and focus on building strong connections with ourselves and our families. Take the time to see who or how you can help in your community. Prioritizing your physical and mental health.

This way, when life goes back to being busy, we can remember what is most important. We can enjoy all aspects of our wealth because wealth is complex, multidimensional and meaningful. It is not a status, it’s a mindset.