Let’s be real. The financial game is rigged, and the ultra-wealthy play by a different set of rules. You hustle, you save, you invest, but somehow, the gap keeps growing. Enter Stephen Schwarzman, the billionaire co-founder of Blackstone, the guy who turns deals into gold while the rest of us are still figuring out our 401(k)s.
So, what’s his secret sauce? And more importantly, how can YOU use it to level up your finances? Here are eight money moves straight from Schwarzman’s playbook that you can start using today.
1. Think Like an Investor, Not a Consumer
The average person thinks about how to spend money. Schwarzman thinks about how to multiply it. Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Will this make me money in the future?
Hack: Next time you’re about to splurge on something dumb, put that same amount into an index fund or high-yield savings account. (Boring? Maybe. But future you will thank you.)
2. Master the Art of Negotiation (Or Keep Overpaying Like a Rookie)
Schwarzman doesn’t accept the first offer, ever. He negotiates everything, from billion-dollar deals to personal expenses. And guess what? So can you.
Hack: Get a copy of Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss (yes, it’s on Amazon). This book will turn you into a deal-closing ninja.
3. Learn to Spot Trends Before Everyone Else
Schwarzman didn’t get rich by following the herd. He spots opportunities before they become mainstream. The trick? Constant learning and strategic networking.
Hack: Follow industry leaders on LinkedIn, listen to finance podcasts, and attend events where smart money people hang out.
4. Use Debt Like a Weapon (Not a Trap)
Rich people don’t fear debt; they use it to build wealth. Schwarzman borrows at low interest rates to invest in high-return assets. Meanwhile, the average person racks up credit card debt on things that lose value.
Hack: If you must use debt, use it strategically. Think business loans, real estate, or education that actually boosts your income. Not a $5,000 vacation to Tulum.
5. Build Relationships, Not Just Bank Accounts
Schwarzman knows that who you know is just as important as what you know. The right connections open doors that money alone never could.
Hack: Start networking with intention. Reach out to mentors, attend finance meetups, and actually follow up with people. Your net worth is tied to your network.
6. Be Ruthlessly Efficient With Time
Time is your most valuable asset, and Schwarzman treats it like gold. He schedules everything and doesn’t waste a second on low-value tasks.
Hack: Get a planner (like this bestselling time-blocking journal on Amazon) and start treating your schedule like a billionaire would.
7. Take Calculated Risks (Sitting Still is Riskier)
Schwarzman isn’t reckless, but he’s not afraid to take big swings when the odds are in his favor. Playing it safe all the time won’t make you rich.
Hack: Set aside a small portion of your money for higher-risk, higher-reward investments, whether it’s stocks, startups, or crypto (just don’t YOLO your life savings).
8. Never Stop Learning (Or You’ll Fall Behind)
Schwarzman is obsessed with knowledge. If you’re not learning, you’re losing. Period.
Hack: Read finance books, take online courses, and surround yourself with smarter people. If you don’t know where to start, grab Principles by Ray Dalio (Amazon link) and let it change your mindset.
Final Thought: Will You Play the Game or Get Played?
Schwarzman didn’t get rich by accident. He mastered the game. The good news? You don’t need a billion-dollar hedge fund to apply these principles. Start today.
Now tell me, which of these tricks are you going to try first? Drop a comment below!