I am curious how your current life compares to the pre-IPO one. Is it universally better? Is there anything poor people don't know or misunderstand about being rich? (I am more in the poor camp.)
I used to be in the poor camp. Like, frequently borderline homeless and living at my aunt’s house in a camper in their driveway.
It’s not universally better than when I was merely well paid and affluent, even if heavily in debt. But not having to worry about whether to buy food or pay rent is quite a huge difference. My kids will never know the struggle I did. I can’t say whether that’s good or bad. I have a more well rounded perspective than most other techies
Not really, but that's because most don't really know the extent of our wealth. They know we've purchased a couple of rental properties and have a wealth management account. One family member, my sister-in-law, has always been irresponsible with her money, and has always asked us to bail her out (e.g. to remove a tree and repair the roof it fell on, because she didn't have enough to cover it, in spite of the fact she earns nearly 6-figures in a very inexpensive part of the midwest). My brother has never asked me for money even though he is currently burning through his savings after having been laid off.
All in all it seems you have been very fortunate and are in a good spot now. I am happy for you. And thanks again - I have never communicated with a millionaire before : - )
