A key concept of managing money is that of the Time Value of Money. The sooner money is received and put to work earning compound interest, the greater the value of that money.
Experience shows that the rich measure wealth in a special way. Rather than focus on income, they keep track of their net worth.
Just as a business will regularly figure results by reviewing a profit and loss statement, a balance sheet and a net worth statement, individuals who are serious about managing money do the same.
Income is interesting. Only results after adjusting for expenses and gains and losses will ultimately count.
Forms for measuring net worth are available for free online. Net Worth is the Bottom Line!