There are no hard and fast rules. You can get rich by winning the lottery. Or by illegal or criminal means. Or by hard work coupled with talent. Even luck. You can marry into a rich family, or be born into one.

Statistically, college graduates make more money in their lifetimes than their less-educated peers. There are exceptions, of course. It's just a statistic.

For many who did not inherit a dime, it's hard work, talent, and luck. And knowing how to spend and save, i.e. money management.

Quick question: if you suddenly get a raise, do you a) find a new expense to use your raise on, e.g. move to a bigger apartment? b) treat yourself to a good dinner once and put the additional money into a savings/investment?

Same thing with an unexpected bonus. Do you go out and buy that TV you want? Pay off the credit card and then use it again? Or put it into a savings/investment?

If a year ago you received 50,000 pesos and put it in SM stock, it would be about 70,000 now. 40% is not bad.

Live below your means.

The other thing is not to think about money all the time. Money is not everything. Money is not the key to happiness. If you look at majority of the top billionnaires, they're all philanthropists. And they gave away money or help even before they were very rich.