Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the relentless pace of managing your business or investments? If you’ve caught yourself wondering, “Is all this effort really worth it?”—you’re not alone. Many high achievers reach a point where the daily grind becomes exhausting, sparking the question, “When is enough truly enough?”
Peace doesn’t necessarily come from accumulating more achievements but from recognizing when you’ve reached your own version of “enough.” This realization is deeply personal—it could mean financial freedom for some or having more time and flexibility for others. So, what does “enough” mean to you?
Success and Burnout: Recognizing the Signs
One of my clients, after decades of building a successful business, found himself at a crossroads. His company was thriving, but he wasn’t. Years of relentless work had taken a toll, leaving him mentally and physically drained. Despite the exhaustion, when an attractive offer to sell the business came his way, he hesitated. “It’s worth more,” he told me, convinced that holding on just a little longer would yield a higher return.
As we reviewed his finances, it became clear that while his business might fetch a higher price in ideal conditions, the current offer already secured his long-term financial future. No amount of money guarantees certainty and holding out for more involves its own risks. He might have waited for a better offer only to find that the market had changed, and future offers were lower.
This realization shifted his perspective. Continuing to push for a higher offer wasn’t the only path forward. Recognizing “enough” often means choosing peace of mind over financial gain. For him, selling the business wasn’t about giving up—it was about gaining freedom.
Whole Foods CEO: Defining ‘Enough’ at the Top
Do you know the story of John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods? Mackey transformed a small health food store in Austin, Texas, into a multi-billion-dollar empire. But as Whole Foods continued to grow, Mackey had to confront the question: “When is it enough?”
Running a global company brings immense pressure and unpredictable challenges. After decades of leadership, Mackey chose to step down in 2022. He realized that while staying on might lead to more success, it wasn’t worth the personal cost.
Mackey’s decision wasn’t just financial—it reflected his desire for well-being. Even financial success can’t guarantee happiness. For Mackey, additional financial gains didn’t outweigh the toll on his health. He understood that stepping back was necessary to regain balance.
Larry Ellison: Redefining Success Beyond Wealth
Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, took a different route. While Mackey decided to step away, Ellison kept pushing forward, growing Oracle into one of the most powerful tech companies in the world. Ellison’s personal fortune now exceeds $200 billion, yet his drive extends far beyond wealth.
Unlike Mackey, Ellison could have stopped when he accumulated hundreds of millions, but he didn’t. Ellison’s passion for innovation and competition kept him striving for more—but not necessarily money. For Ellison, “enough” isn’t always about financial figures. For people like him, fulfillment comes from pursuing passions, not just profits.
Ellison’s path highlights a different kind of risk. Continuing to push forward in business brings both rewards and uncertainties. What works for one person may not work for another. Understanding your own drivers is essential.
Finding the Right Balance
What ties these stories together—whether it’s my client selling his business, John Mackey stepping down, or Larry Ellison continuing to innovate—is the recognition that “enough” is deeply personal. For some, it’s about stepping back and enjoying life. For others, it’s about pushing boundaries and continuing to create.
The key? Aligning your financial goals with what truly matters to you. Financial planning provides the tools to help navigate these decisions, but it’s important to recognize that no financial plan eliminates uncertainty. Markets fluctuate and personal circumstances change. Your personal definition of “enough” is what aligns with your broader life goals and ultimately shapes your decisions.
Defining your “enough” brings peace of mind—not just financial security. Whether you’re stepping back from a career, selling a business, or reassessing your investments, finding your balance can transform how you live. The journey to “enough” is unique to each individual, and no one-size-fits-all solution exists.
If you’re ready to explore what “enough” looks like for you, consider checking out “Maintaining Financial Independence in Retirement.” Remember, the path to peace and security starts with understanding your goals—not just your finances.
Douglas Goldstein, CFP® is the director of Profile Investment Services, Ltd. www.Profile-Financial.com. Securities offered through Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, FSI. The opinions expressed are those of the author and not those of this website, Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. or its affiliates. Nothing in this article is intended to be investment, tax, or legal advice. Information in this article is gathered from sources considered reliable, but we cannot guarantee their accuracy. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns.
