Unlocking Wealth: Why a Supersized Income Is Your Key to Real Financial Freedom

Financial freedom isn’t just about earning enough to get by. It’s about building the kind of income that lets you save, invest, and create the future you truly want. In today’s world, an above-average income—think £120,000, $150,000, or C$200,000 a year—can be a powerful engine for wealth. But there’s more to the story than just a bigger paycheck.

“When you work at your job you make a living. When you work on yourself you make a fortune.” — Jim Rohn

Beyond the Paycheck: The Hidden Costs of Earning More

When you earn a higher salary, you’re able to set aside more for emergencies, invest in opportunities, and enjoy life’s experiences. But as many high earners in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada discover, a larger salary often comes with a larger tax bill. The more you earn, the more you’re taxed—sometimes at rates that can feel punishing. This can make it feel like you’re working harder just to stay in the same place.

For example, in the UK, once your income exceeds £100,000, you begin to lose your personal allowance, leading to an effective tax rate that can exceed 60% for a portion of your earnings. In the US, moving into higher federal and state tax brackets can mean a significant portion of each additional dollar goes to taxes. And in Canada, provincial and federal rates combine to take a substantial bite out of high salaries.

My Turning Point: From Trading Time to Building Lasting Wealth

When I started out in my career, I quickly realized that working extra shifts or taking on a second job only pushed me into higher tax brackets, leaving me with less than expected after taxes. The harder I worked, the more I paid—and it became clear that simply trading time for money wasn’t the answer to building lasting wealth.

Instead, I shifted my focus. I spent more time learning about investing and setting up businesses in my spare time. Over the years, I established a professional corporation, which is still taxed at a higher rate but not as high as earning all my income through salary. I also acquired shares in other corporations, maximized my RRSP and TFSA savings, and invested in real estate to benefit from passive income streams. These moves allowed me to grow my income in a tax-efficient way and build a foundation for financial independence.

“Don’t wish it were easier. Wish you were better.” — Jim Rohn

Multiply Your Money: Tax-Efficient Strategies for Real Freedom

So, how do you build true financial freedom? The answer lies in earning income in tax-efficient ways. Instead of relying solely on a salary, consider how passive income can help you grow your wealth without the headaches of high taxation.

• Investing in Real Estate: In the US, rental property income can benefit from deductions and depreciation. In the UK, buy-to-let investments offer capital growth and, with careful planning, can reduce your taxable income. In Canada, principal residence exemptions and eligible capital gains rules can help you keep more of your returns.
• Dividend Stocks & Funds: Many countries offer favorable tax treatment for qualified dividends. For example, US investors often pay lower rates on qualified dividends, and the UK’s dividend allowance lets you receive a certain amount tax-free each year.
• Tax-Sheltered Accounts: Make use of ISAs in the UK, RRSPs and TFSAs in Canada, and IRAs or 401(k)s in the US. These accounts allow your investments to grow tax-free or tax-deferred, helping you build wealth faster.
• Online Businesses & Royalties: Building an online business or earning royalties from creative work (like books or courses) can provide streams of income that are often taxed differently than salary—and can sometimes be offset by business expenses.

“Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.” — Jim Rohn

Proof It Works: Real People, Real Results

Consider Sarah, a London-based professional who shifted from a corporate role to property investment. By reinvesting rental income into additional properties and maximizing her ISA contributions, she grew her net worth without falling into the highest tax traps.

In Toronto, Michael diversified his income by investing in dividend-paying Canadian stocks through his TFSA, allowing his money to grow tax-free. Meanwhile, in Texas, Lisa built a side business selling digital products, using retirement accounts to shelter her profits and reduce her overall tax bill.

Your Next Move: Build a Tax-Efficient Wealth Plan Today

• Review your current income sources and tax situation. Are you maximizing your tax-advantaged accounts?
• Explore passive income options that fit your skills and interests—whether it’s real estate, investing, or digital products.
• Learn more about practical investing strategies and tax planning by visiting the collection of in-depth articles on building wealth and financial independence.

“The best investment you can make is in yourself.” — Warren Buffett

Earning a supersized income is only the first step. The true path to financial independence is about making intentional choices—keeping more of what you earn, investing wisely, and using your resources to build a life of abundance and security. Every decision you make today shapes your financial future. Start now, stay consistent, and remember: your commitment to learning and taking action is what will set you apart. Financial freedom is not just a dream—it's a result of the steps you choose to take, day after day.

Change your mind. Change your life.

To your success,
Akin Osho