There is a widely circulated quote from Feng Tang that is very insightful:

"The genes of the poor favor caring for others and helping others;
The rich, when faced with incapable people, do not engage in unnecessary conflict, avoiding energy drain.
The poor are cautious yet generous;
The rich are generous yet frugal."
At first glance, it seems realistic; upon reflection, it reveals the truth.
Behind this is not a gap between wealth and poverty, but the level of wisdom in energy management.
[Gentle Breeze] Poor mindset: prioritize relationships but easily drain energy.
Having experienced scarcity, they are more empathetic to others' difficulties. That "cautious yet generous" attitude is rooted in kindness and thoughtfulness, but often comes with self-consumption. Fear of upsetting others or damaging relationships leads to constant giving, even at personal expense. Energy thus gradually flows into a bottomless pit.
[Gentle Breeze] Rich mindset: prioritize efficiency and conserve energy.
Their "generous yet frugal" approach is not stinginess but clarity. Time, energy, and emotions are top resources that must be invested where they can generate value. When encountering draining people or situations, they quickly identify and decisively distance themselves. This is not indifference but precise control over their energy accounts.
[Gentle Breeze] These two mindsets lead to two different life states:
One is constantly self-consuming in the whirlpool of "relationships," feeling exhausted and wronged.
The other continuously appreciates value on its track, confident and composed.
We may not immediately possess the wealth of the rich, but we can learn early on their "stinginess" with energy.
True maturity begins with establishing our own energy boundaries:
Use that "cautiousness" to protect your inner feelings.
Use that "generosity" to...