Stepping outside for a walk

One luxury that as a wealthy person you enjoy is not to have to negotiate the hustle and bustle of the outdoors. But the paradox of stepping out once in a while, Harun al-Rashid style, to take a short walk around the neighbourhood can be surprisingly life-affirming.

For starters, the cacophony and the hum, in this curated jaunt, is more like a window into a world you no longer have touch with than a descent into chaos. Treat it like an adventure safari, and you'll find a certain thrill in stepping out on the street.

The streets are theatres of daily life, with all its aspects. Living nearby and being able to return home anytime gives you control. Have a snack, eavesdrop on a conversation, observe the dynamics of people before you return 'upstairs'. It can certainly be worth retelling, or even writing.


This organised chaos, this joy in anonymity that is unavailable in your 'set' - whether it be at your gym, your club or dinner milieu - takes you out of your comfort zone. Without leaving you uncomfortable, of course.