Do You Know How Wealthy You Really Are?

Kokila Chokkanathan
A Simple Formula to Calculate Your Net Worth

Most people assume wealth is about how much money sits in their bank account, the cars they drive, or the jewelry they own. But true financial strength goes beyond possessions. The real measure is your net worth—a single number that reveals your financial health and long-term security.

Here’s a simple formula, known as the Net Worth Rule, to calculate how wealthy you truly are.


🧮 1. What Exactly Is Net Worth?

Your net worth is the value of everything you own (assets) minus everything you owe (liabilities).

  • Assets: Cash, property, gold, mutual funds, stocks, retirement funds.
  • Liabilities: Loans, EMIs, credit card dues, and other debts.
👉 This number tells you whether your money is working for you or slipping away through debts.


📈 2. Why Net Worth Matters More Than Income

  • Income ≠ Wealth: A high salary doesn’t guarantee financial strength if you spend it all.
  • Financial Planning Tool: Helps you track savings and investments against debts.
  • Long-Term Indicator: A growing net worth shows that you’re building financial independence and security for retirement.
In short, income pays the bills, but net worth builds your future.


✨ 3. The Simple Net Worth Formula

Here’s the Net Worth Rule:

Net Worth = (Age × Total Lifetime Earnings) ÷ 20

  • If your actual net worth equals or exceeds this figure → ✅ You’re on track.
  • If it’s lower → ⚠️ Time to improve savings and investments.

🧑‍🏫 4. Example Calculation

Let’s say you’re 30 years old and your total lifetime earnings are Rs 12 lakh.

Multiply age × earnings → 30 × 12,00,000 = Rs 3,60,00,000.

Divide by 20 → Rs 3,60,00,000 ÷ 20 = Rs 18,00,000.

👉 According to the formula, your ideal net worth should be at least Rs 18 lakh.

  • If your assets ≥ Rs 18 lakh → You’re financially strong.
  • If assets < Rs 18 lakh → Focus on increasing savings and investing wisely.

🔑 5. Why This Rule Is Important

  • Reality Check 🪞 – Reveals if your wealth is in sync with your age and income.
  • Smarter Planning 📊 – Highlights gaps in your savings and investments.
  • Motivation to Grow 🚀 – Pushes you to build assets, not just spend.
  • Security & Independence 🛡️ – Ensures you don’t depend on others in retirement.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Measuring wealth isn’t about flashy cars or branded jewelry—it’s about how much you keep and grow.

The Net Worth Rule is a quick way to check whether you’re financially on track. If you fall short, don’t panic. Start small:

  • Rework your budget.
  • Save consistently.
  • Invest in assets that appreciate over time.
Remember: True wealth isn’t about earning more—it’s about building more.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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