Most people think "Wealth" is a binary state: you are either rich or poor. This is false. Wealth is a ladder. If you try to jump from Level 1 to Level 7, you will fall.

To win the game of money, you must identify exactly where you are and solve the specific problem of that level. Here is the hierarchy of financial freedom.

Level 1: Dependence

You owe more than you own. You are dependent on debt or the kindness of others. Your net worth is negative.

The Fix: You need to stop the bleeding. Audit your subscriptions immediately.

Level 2: Survival (The Rat Race)

You pay your bills, but you have nothing left. You are one bad month away from disaster. This is where 60% of the population lives.

The Fix: You cannot save your way out of this. You must increase your income or drastically cut expenses.

Level 3: Stability

You have paid off high-interest credit cards. You have a small buffer. You can sleep at night. You are no longer drowning, but you are still swimming hard.

Level 4: Security (F-You Money)

This is the turning point. You have 6 to 12 months of living expenses in liquid cash. You can walk away from a toxic boss. You have leverage.

Level 5: Autonomy

You have invested enough that your compound interest is noticeable. Your portfolio grows by more than you save. The snowball is rolling.

Level 6: Independence (FIRE)

Financial Independence, Retire Early. Your investments generate enough passive income to cover your basic lifestyle. You do not *have* to work.

Level 7: Abundance

You have more money than you can spend. Your focus shifts from "How do I make money?" to "What is my legacy?" You play the game for fun, not survival.

Wealth FAQ