Behave Like A Millionaire

So you're finally making some good dough and you want to show it to the world. As well you should. But if you think it's all about a flashy car, dapper suits and pricey nights on the town, think again.

The smart rich man works to manage his money, so he displays it wisely. If you just flaunt the Benjamins recklessly, you'll find yourself -- like so many Americans -- under crippling debt in no time.

The following tips, of course, have to be adjusted according to your income. If you're still pulling in $45K, a membership to the golf club might not be the best idea. Nonetheless, by adopting the habits of millionaires, you can become one in essence.
1- Take risks
Risks are part of making money. Any investor will tell you that the greater the risks, the fatter the potential returns. Men don't become rich by taking the safe route. It's by means of measured, calculated ventures to the edge that one is rewarded. You must be a brave soldier if you want more for yourself. And your peers will admire you for your willingness to take chances on dicey but profitable opportunities.
2- Be vigilantly generous
Being vigilantly generous doesn't mean that you should buy drinks for everyone at your local pub. Picking up habits like this will send you straight to the poor house. Splurge on your friends and colleagues, but only do so occasionally. If they're worth a damn, they'll remember your generosity and one day repay you in double.

Play the philanthropy card as well; offering your money to worthy causes can provide you with recognition. Scholarships, funds and venues are all named after generous donors. And you can claim a nice tax exemption, too.
3- Schmooze with the elite
Networking is one thing; networking with the right people is another. You should do your best to hang around those with big cash flows. Watch them, learn from them and try to become part of their clique. By mingling with the elite, you can create an elite address book for yourself. You may even become privy to information that could make you even more money. So find out where the bluebloods hobnob, be it a cigar lounge, a country club or a winery, and make some new friends.

4- Monitor your investments
Wealth is work. Portfolios are like children: If you don't pay attention to them, they might rebel unexpectedly. Keep abreast of the companies you have stakes in and how well the industries in your funds are doing. Read market analyses and financial publications like Forbes and the Financial Times. Get a reliable financial consultant to give you helpful pointers. You'll be enriching your own knowledge of money, an essential trait of the millionaire.
5- Develop foresight
The millionaire makes his bones because he has an amazing eye for opportunity. He sees trends developing and can anticipate the next hot thing, like a new neighborhood on the cusp of booming in the real-estate market. This foresight isn't necessarily naturally endowed; it's developed through a constant study of markets that translates knowledge into a sixth sense. If you develop a keen eye for moneymaking opportunities, others will come to you to bask in your brilliance.
6- Delegate
You can't be an ace in everything, but you can be a master of delegation. Instead of wasting time trying to learn everything, get skilled at handing tasks out. If you have a tax issue, take it to an accountant. If it's a legal matter, hire a lawyer. The money will be well-spent, as it will save you time and help you avoid potential flubs. Good delegation is the cardinal virtue of a good manager. Keep that in mind.
7- Stay focused
The rich man sets out a clear mission for himself with concrete objectives. He keeps an unflinching eye on the prize and never veers from his course. Do the same: Write down your personal vision and what you'll do to get there. Remind yourself of it when you're mired in the daily menial work. Whatever issues you may face, your vision will keep you motivated.
8- Upgrade your purchases
If you've been getting a lot of mileage out of one suit, eventually you'll have to get something more becoming of the high-status male. Give yourself the things you deserve with all your work: a new car, the best room you can afford in a hotel or a plush seat in first class. Though the true millionaire spends his money wisely, he knows it's good for the soul to treat himself now and then.
9- Have specific hobbies
Wealth is synonymous with sophistication. You can hardly be ranked among the true elite if you don't rub elbows with the upper crust. So take up some hobbies that will put you in a position to do so. Join an exclusive gold club or a polo team. Enjoy fine dining, good cigars and quality wines. You'll gain that much more respect when you're good at what the best do best.
the money will follow
Fake it 'til you make it. This bit of street wisdom can apply to just about anything, and success is not exempt. If you can manage to keep up all the habits outlined above, you will have the attitude down pat. And like a moth to the flame, money gravitates to those who know how to handle it with class.

Resources:
http://content.salary.monster.com
www.debtguru.com
www.hnw.com
www.bizjournals.com