My Top FIVE Personal Finance Books
As anyone who knows me would tell you, I am a serious bookworm - I am as stimulated by a good book as most people are by a good hockey fight. I absolutely love to read, but I think the root of that comes from my obsession to learn. Learning new ideas from some of the smartest people on the planet is my most cherished activity, and I feel that integrating a new perspective on the world into my psyche makes me more than I was yesterday. I grow from it.
With that in mind, it comes as no great surprise that I very much prefer non-fiction books as they usually offer me more condensed learning material in the subject matter I am interested in.
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.
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Our World Costs Money
One such subject that really floats my boat is the area of personal finance. Due to the fact that I ran recklessly into adulthood without a penny to my name, I was forced into taking an interest in money because I had none, and the world demanded that I pay to live in it. Nothing puts the “personal” in Personal Finance like starving to death.
After struggling for many years and gaining a family to support, I realized I had better get my act together or my future would be one of worry and strife. I had to come up with a plan.
But where does one go to learn how to manage money? Who do you ask? I didn’t know any rich people. Most of the people I knew were struggling too. Making ends meet was an exercise in trial and error, and I was never taught money skills by my parents.
Financial Education
I realized that the information that I was looking for would be tough to find. I assumed that the path to getting ahead financially was a closely guarded “secret” that only the rich knew. Little did I know, that the information was out there, I was just looking in the wrong places.
Then one day I stumbled into the Personal Finance section of a bookstore and my whole world changed. I bought a book that changed my thinking so much, that I believe it is required reading for everyone. The books I am about to talk about are amazing. They gave me knowledge and perspective that I never would have figured out on my own. The principles and strategies they presented rocked my world. My journey to financial independence had begun…
These Books Saved My Life
Rich Dad Poor Dad
-Robert Kiyosaki
This is the book that started it all. The ideas presented in this classic are so amazing that I am surprised the rich people of the world didn’t band against Robert Kiyosaki to prevent him from sharing these secrets. It is not a “how to” book. It is a “why to” book. It gives the reader what he needs, not what he wants - a new mindset. It is the #1 book I recommend the most to people wondering how to develop a financial plan.
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The Wealthy Barber
-David Chilton
Newly updated, this is the bible of personal finance. This guy changed the world with his common sense principles that guided a whole generation into the world of mutual funds. Although it is pretty “Mainstream” I think it is the perfect starting point for anyone who is trying to figure out “Adulting” and have a plan for their future.
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Secrets of the Millionaire Mind
-T. Harv Eker
This book is sort of a gateway drug into the world of wealth. T. Harv Eker really puts the boots to you in this one. I was mostly awakened by his ability to make you re-think your perception of rich people and what they are all about. Be careful, you may not be able to stop yourself from becoming super rich.
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The 4-hour Workweek
-Timothy Ferriss
Once again, I have never been the same after reading this book. It opened my eyes to a new world; one where you are the master of your destiny. He presents new perspectives on traditional ways of existing, which he calls “Lifestyle Design”. It will make you re-think your life in so many ways, but in a good way. Maybe even a great way..
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The Millionaire FASTLANE
-M J DeMARCO
If you are looking for a complete blueprint to building a life of abundance, then look no further. This book spells out the strategy in a clear, thoughtful and realistic way. I forced my son to read this book because it had all the information that anyone would ever need to create the financial life of their dreams. He thanked me after…
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There you have it. If you read even ONE of these books and follow its teachings in your own life, you will have seriously increased your chances to find yourself catapulted into a whole new league of financial well-being. Of course, I would LOVE it if you read one of my books - I am certain they will help you, but if you choose to save my books for next time, get one of the above and enjoy your new possibilities.
Disclaimer
I do receive a small commission if you purchase some of these books through the links provided, but I personally have read each of these books several times, and swear by their efficacy. I really don’t think there are any better guides that I am aware of.
There are three distinct steps in wealth creation..