Sylvia Kang, 40, is the founder and CEO of Mira, a women’s hormonal health company, and a multimillionaire living in the Bay Area. While her business success has brought her wealth, it has also complicated her friendships and personal life.
Business Growth and Wealth
Sylvia launched Mira in 2018, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company flourished. She became a millionaire around three years ago, yet she chooses to live modestly in a three-bedroom home with her family. Her Tesla Model 3, while a luxury, serves more as a convenient choice for its self-driving features.
Changing Friendships
As Sylvia’s wealth grew, her relationships with friends evolved. Friends now treat her with more formality, making casual outings feel like scheduled events. Sylvia also finds it hard to connect, as her day-to-day life is consumed with running a business, which is something her friends can’t easily relate to. Some view her as a mentor, but the dynamic feels one-sided. The conversations often shift back to their lives, leaving her feeling distanced from her old friendships.
New Support Circles
After speaking with her therapist, Sylvia realized she can’t rely on one person to fulfill all her emotional needs. Instead, she nurtures a diverse set of relationships, with people who share common interests like hiking or meditation. For business-related discussions, she connects with fellow entrepreneurs who understand the complexities of running a company.
Finding Fulfillment Beyond Wealth
Though Sylvia has reached financial independence and could retire, her passion for improving women’s health keeps her motivated. She no longer craves material possessions. Once driven by the desire to show her status, she now finds joy in spiritual experiences, such as traveling to historical sites in Greece and Italy.
Shifting Priorities
In her journey, Sylvia has learned to redefine success. For her, it’s no longer about wealth but about the purpose her work provides. While she could retire, the impact of her business gives her life fulfillment beyond financial freedom.
