If You Really Want to Be Upper Class, Develop These 5 Self-Disciplined Habits

In today’s society, the “upper class” concept extends far beyond mere wealth. It encompasses a set of behaviors, attitudes, and habits that reflect sophistication, education, and social awareness.

While financial success often plays a role, truly embodying upper-class qualities requires self-discipline and a commitment to personal growth.

This article explores five essential habits that can help you cultivate an upper-class mindset and lifestyle.

1. Invest in Your Education: The Power of Advanced Degrees

Education has long been a cornerstone of upper-class society, with advanced degrees serving as both a symbol of intellectual achievement and a gateway to exclusive opportunities. Pursuing graduate or professional degrees, such as an MBA, JD, MD, or PhD, demonstrates a commitment to excellence and a willingness to invest in your future.

The value of advanced education in upper-class circles can’t be overstated. These degrees often open doors to high-level positions, prestigious networks, and social circles that might otherwise remain closed.

Institutions like Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and Oxford are highly regarded in business and social circles, not just for the degree they provide but also for their connections and prestige.

Pursuing advanced education requires immense self-discipline. Late nights of studying, juggling work and academic commitments, and pushing oneself intellectually are par for the course. This dedication to personal growth and learning is a hallmark of upper-class individuals who understand that knowledge is a powerful currency in both social and professional realms.

2. Master the Art of Networking: Building Valuable Connections

Networking is essential in upper-class circles, where who you know can be just as important as what you know. Effective networking goes beyond exchanging business cards at conferences; it’s about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships that can last a lifetime.

For the upper class, networking often occurs in exclusive settings – charity galas, private clubs, high-end sporting events, or invitation-only seminars. These environments provide opportunities to connect with influential individuals across various industries and social spheres. However, the true art of networking lies not in merely attending these events but in making meaningful connections.

Mastering the art of networking requires significant self-discipline. It involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone, being consistently present and engaged, and following up on connections made. It also means being prepared to offer value in return – upper-class networking is built on reciprocity and mutual benefit, not just taking from others.

3. Embrace Lifelong Learning: Stay Sharp, Stay Relevant

For those aspiring to upper-class status, the pursuit of knowledge doesn’t end with formal education. Continuous learning is a crucial characteristic of sophisticated individuals who understand that staying informed and developing new skills is essential for maintaining relevance and influence.

Lifelong learning takes many forms in upper-class circles. It might involve voracious reading habits, with individuals consuming everything from classic literature to cutting-edge research papers.

It could mean attending lectures, workshops, or cultural events to broaden one’s horizons. For many, it includes developing practical skills such as financial literacy, technical skills, understanding global markets, or learning new languages.

The discipline required for lifelong learning can’t be understated. It means consistently carving out time from busy schedules to pursue knowledge, even when there’s no immediate payoff. It’s about cultivating curiosity and a growth mindset, understanding that intellectual stagnation is not an option in the upper echelons of society.

4. Dress for Success: The Impact of Professional Attire

In upper-class society, appearance matters. The adage “dress for the job you want, not the one you have” holds particular weight in these circles. Professional attire is not just about looking good; it’s a form of non-verbal communication that signals attention to detail, respect for oneself and others, and understanding social norms.

Building a sophisticated wardrobe is an investment in oneself. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, opting for classic styles that stand the test of time rather than fleeting trends. For men, this might mean well-tailored suits, quality dress shoes, and tasteful accessories. For women, it could involve a mix of elegant dresses, tailored separates, and carefully chosen jewelry.

Maintaining a consistently professional appearance requires discipline. It means selecting appropriate outfits, keeping clothes in impeccable condition, and always being prepared for unexpected meetings or events.

Of course, this also includes haircuts, shaving, and impeccable grooming. This level of attention to one’s appearance demonstrates respect for oneself and others – an essential trait in upper-class interactions.

5. Hone Your Communication Skills: From Writing to Active Listening

Excellent communication is perhaps the most crucial skill for anyone aspiring to upper-class status. The ability to express oneself clearly and persuasively, whether in writing or speech, is invaluable in both professional and social settings.

Effective communication in upper-class circles goes beyond mere articulation. It encompasses the art of conversation, public speaking, writing, and, perhaps most importantly, active listening. Engaging in intelligent discourse on a wide range of topics, from current events to the arts, is a hallmark of sophisticated individuals.

Developing superior communication skills requires constant practice and self-reflection. It means seeking opportunities to write, speak, and engage in meaningful conversations. It involves reading widely to build vocabulary and knowledge.

Most importantly, it requires the discipline to listen actively and empathetically, a skill that sets exceptional communicators apart.

Conclusion

Cultivating these five self-disciplined habits – investing in advanced education, mastering networking, embracing lifelong learning, dressing professionally, and honing communication skills – can significantly contribute to developing an upper-class demeanor and lifestyle. These habits require consistent effort, self-reflection, and a commitment to personal growth.

It’s important to note that while these habits are associated with upper-class behavior, actual class is also about integrity, empathy, and using one’s position to impact society through business, relationships, and charity positively.

As you work on developing these habits, always prioritize your personal values and ethical considerations. The journey to becoming “upper class” is as much about internal growth and character development as it is about external perceptions and achievements.

By focusing on these areas and maintaining the discipline to improve consistently, you’ll elevate your social and professional standing and become a more well-rounded, knowledgeable, and influential individual. Start implementing these habits today, and watch as doors to new opportunities and circles open.