Jack Bogle is the legendary pioneer and founder of Vanguard… one of the largest asset gathers in the world. Jack was wealthy. But far more humble. One morning he was walking with a friend on a beach in Southampton… “Hey, Jack.” his friend said. “See that multimillion dollar mansion up there? How does it make you feel that the guy in that home makes more money in a day than you make in a year? Jack replied with a smile, “My friend, I’ve got something that guy will never have” “Oh, what’s that? Jack looked him in the eye, “My friend… I’ve got enough …. I’ve got enough.”

My company of 20yrs let me go in 1997. My family went into free fall. No job at age 51, not particularly attractive to companies in a tough industry suited and designed more for younger guys than me. Nancy and I sold our large home on a hill. Moved to a smaller one. Took the money from the downsizing and started a consulting, coaching practice. We gave up some status, some space, some of my dignity, respect from peers too. I had a lot of fear going on inside me. The whispers around town, “Gee, too bad about Bob getting fired”  Ouch! We had hosted receptions on the hill for local alumni from my college, a charity event or two. The word around town? “Gee, Bob is so successful.” Chest out… ego ablaze. I was simply a “big man on campus.” But not so, surely not now.

But wait… With this very difficult transition? Nancy and I eventually came upon a curious discovery. With a lot less income. Money in the bank? Not near enough saved to retire. Starting over at age 51. Ugh! But guess what… We found this. Our life style, big money profile was gone. Without the perception of status, financial success? Life was far more enjoyable, easier to manage, better focused on the important things. Things that really mattered

Like Mr. Bogle… we realized we actually had enough. Enough to pay our bills (with some painful adjustments), find new pleasures less dependent on what we’d had. Hmm… how ’bout that. Today? We have plenty.

The unquenchable zeal for status and wealth today? It’s real. The mantra from so many? “It’s not about the money.” C’mon, too many times it really is. More is better. “Follow the money.” We hear this today referring to our Presidential candidates, the Goldman Sachs guys. “Follow the money.”… and so many do. Right? So ask yourself the question… go ahead. Do you think you have enough?