This kind of wealth, mental wealth is truly the one equalizer in the world. You can be a king and be poor mentally or you can be a pauper and be boundless in your mental wealth. One of the five Dhyani Buddhas, says this: that one should transform a “poverty mentality” into a “wealth mentality.”

What exactly is a wealth mentality? Let’s break it down.

Certainly, maybe the most obvious is brain health. Our brain must function within certain parameters of “normalcy” that allow us to lead a daily productive life. When the brain is unable to function in this healthy “zone” we come across disturbances such as addiction, spectrum disorders, and all the diagnoses: paranoia, bipolar, schizophrenia, and countless more, and the most pernicious: depression.

The next form of mental wealth is the ability to balance and filter. Understanding the concept of reaction and overreaction. Of seeing things as they are, not as we want them to be. Of speaking and not regretting. Of still wanting without the feeling of lacking. Of enjoying the moment without analyzing.

Mental wealth through spirituality is yet another component of mental wealth. Having faith. Accepting without trying to find a concrete answer. Knowing we belong to the whole; we are a continuation of everything and are individually important. Religion and doctrine may help us on our spiritual journey, but ultimately it is up to us to enjoy our very own spiritual journey of discovery.

And last but not least affecting mental health is the ability to quiet the inner voice. The constant noise in our brain that tries to distract, judge, over-expose, and under-appreciate situations in our daily life. It brings us unhappiness, makes us unfocused, and perpetually tinges life with unrealistic views. The Buddha teaches and speaks to quieting the mind as one of the key components on the road to enlightenment.

I invite you to take a moment and take inventory of your mental wealth. Are you rich or poor? King or pauper?