Balancing Wealth, Health, and Happiness: An Interview with Pete Roman, Author of “Do You Want to Be Wealthier, Healthier, and Happier?”
Balancing Wealth, Health, and Happiness:
At Cornerstone Wealth, we believe financial planning is about so much more than numbers, it’s about enabling a life rich in purpose, well-being, and joy. No one embodies this more than our client Pete Roman: serial entrepreneur, world traveler, and now, author of “Do You Want to Be Wealthier Healthier and Happier? How to Unlock the Great WHH Continuum” We recently sat down with Pete to explore what inspired his book, how his “WHH Continuum” applies to real lives, and the pivotal role advisors play in helping individuals achieve true balance.
The Birth of the “WHH Continuum”
Pete’s journey began with keen observation and experience as he traveled to over 24 countries, working and engaging with people from all walks of life. “I noticed patterns of success and failure were less about geography and more about human behavior,” Pete says. This global lens, coupled with his own career ups and downs, helped him see unmistakable links: "Wealthy people were often healthier and happier, but it was only sustainable when their focus wasn’t lopsided." After a pivotal loss in his family and lessons from his time as an Adjunct Professor, Pete committed two decades to researching the interconnections between wealth, health, and happiness.
What is the WHH Continuum?
“It’s the proper balance - achieved and maintained over time - between wealth, health, and happiness,” Pete explains. Through thousands of interviews, he saw the cost of focusing on one area to the exclusion of others. “Some people check the 'wealth' box but lose out on health or happiness. Others pursue happiness today and forget about the future, only to find themselves stressed later on.” His research, detailed in the book, even breaks down how timing and priorities best shift throughout life.
Why So Many Struggle (and Where to Start)
“People often do things backwards,” Pete notes. “We’re conditioned to be consumers, not investors, to prioritize short-term happiness or perceived freedom over lasting wealth and well-being.” His advice whether you’re starting out or catching up: start investing early and consistently, seek expert guidance, but stay flexible and compassionate in rebalancing your focus as life unfolds.
One Small Step: Mindset, Not Just Money
“Most people aren’t stuck, they’re just focused on one element,” Pete says. His research suggests focusing on building wealth first, but with the caveat that it’s never an “on-off” switch: “There will be times you need to pause wealth accumulation to address your health or happiness. The key is flexibility.” He also debunks the myth that wealth comes only at the expense of health or joy: “All the evidence shows it’s possible to have all three… with intentional balance.”
From Practical Routines to Lasting Fulfillment
“Even a 50-year-old starting from zero can reach a seven-figure retirement by saving and investing methodically,” Pete shares. In his view, routines and planning are central — but it’s the guidance from financial advisors that transforms intention into reality. For business owners, Pete stresses the value in collaborating with advisory professionals on exit planning well before retirement: “Expert guidance makes transitioning to the next financial phase far smoother and often more rewarding.”
The Cornerstone Connection: Advice for Living Your WHH Continuum
At Cornerstone Wealth, we’re committed to the holistic approach Pete champions. As Pete puts it, “A true advisor doesn’t just focus on the numbers, they help clients design a plan that aligns finances with a deeply fulfilling life.” Our role is to guide you at every turn: whether you’re building wealth, nurturing well-being, or navigating transitions, we help you prioritize and plan, so that wealth truly supports health and happiness.
A Final Thought from Pete
Asked for a single piece of fiduciary guidance, Pete’s answer is simple yet powerful: “Take the first step: start saving, start moving, start learning. Progress in one area can unlock momentum in others.” For those eager to learn more, Pete recommends diving into the 52 best practices in his book (particularly Chapters 8-10), and partnering with trusted experts to tailor a continuum that works for your life.
Ready for Your Continuum?
Whether you’re accelerating your wealth-building, rebalancing after a setback, or simply wanting a more intentional path forward, Cornerstone Wealth is here to provide peace of mind. As Pete’s experience and research show, with the right partner, you really can be wealthier, healthier, and happier…not just for tomorrow, but for life. Partner with experts and start on your journey to securing your legacy today.
Interested in exploring your own WHH Continuum?
Start a conversation with a Cornerstone Wealth advisors by scheduling a consultation. Whether you’re seeking clarity as you enter retirement or looking to build a family legacy, our advisors are here to support your vision. Ready to learn more about Pete Roman’s book or holistic planning? Order his book today!
About Peter Roman
Peter Joseph Roman was educated at Providence College and graduate studies at Syracuse University. He is Adjunct Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, Carnegie Mellon University, MBA program (retired).
One of eight professionals recruited by Eaton Corporation, a Fortune 50 company, to start and profitably grow an electrical engineering services business globally, Roman and his colleagues brought the business to a $1 billion USD run rate in twelve years. Senior Director of the Eaton’s executive customer board of directors and now, the founder of “The Consultancy,” which advises a wide range of companies, from small startups to large muti-nationals.
He has published many articles with newspapers and technical publications nationally on elder fraud prevention, information warfare, investing, technology, taxation, business development solutions, electrical engineering solutions and customer relationship management.
This is for informational purposes only and does not serve as personal advice. Please speak to a qualified representative regarding your unique circumstances. Cornerstone Wealth is not associated with Peter Joseph Roman. Links within this blog are not associated to Cornerstone Wealth and are subject to change. Hyperlinks will take you to a third-party website whose content Cornerstone Wealth does not control. Investment advisory services offered through Cornerstone Wealth Group, LLC dba Cornerstone Wealth, an SEC registered investment adviser.
