I agree. Wealthy people often work because they enjoy it but the wealthy don’t work to “pay the bills” and can just live off the income stream produced by their wealth. I always equated being wealthy with the ability to increase one’s net worth over time while also living well on passive income.
And making a lot of money doesn’t make you rich.
When I got into medical school, my Dad (a cardiologist) told me something really important.
“A brain surgeon on Park Avenue has always made more than a general practitioner in Brooklyn. But you know those heart surgeons, the ones with the mansions in Sands Point? Two thirds of them are living check to check. Do what interests you”.