When I started this journey to pay down debt and improve my finances, I only had a goal. I had no idea where or how I would start. I knew what I did have though and that was a wealth of resources in books. They would give me the answers that I sought.
The following personal finance books have shaped the core of my progress as well as the foundation of my money management system.
The Richest Man in Babylon
[amazon_link asins=’0451205367′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’d1288d5d-7abe-11e7-a848-eb34d0944152′] Another book with a lot of motivation as well as advice on how to manage your finances. The use of storytelling in this book made it very enjoyable. The “Babylonian parables” in the book have been praised as the greatest inspirational work on the subject of thrift, financial planning, and personal wealth. I can agree that the advice found in this had been, is and will be very useful for a long time coming. I would get this book first as it’s a pretty quick read compared to the others and it’s advice will integrate well with the other books on this list.
The Total Money Makeover: Classic Edition: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness
[amazon_link asins=’1595555277′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’3808ffdc-7b0b-11e7-ac20-ef4d4763f6f9′] This was the book that kick started my financial freedom journey. It utilizes a system of baby steps to work your way out of debt and into financial freedom. It was also the foundation for my own money management system. Finally this book will give you a good foundation while shattering common financial misconceptions that we all have.
Rich Dad Poor Dad: What The Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!
[amazon_link asins=’1612680011′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’fc5044e0-7a2f-11e7-b35a-b9f6048be40f’] This book was my introduction to the business mindset. The story of the author’s two dads and how they shaped his thinking opened my eyes to how I viewed my own finances. Most of all, the book will open your eyes to what assets and liabilities really are.
Rich Dad’s CASHFLOW Quadrant: Rich Dad’s Guide to Financial Freedom
[amazon_link asins=’1612680062′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=”] The Rich Dad Poor Dad book created the business mindset within me and the CashFlow book solidified it. The amazon description of the book suggests, “This book will change the way you think about jobs, careers, and owning your own business and inspire you to learn the rules of money that the rich use to build and grow their wealth”, and this is what happened to me after finishing this book.
The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy
[amazon_link asins=’B000LB234Y’ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=”] This book was an eye-opener. What do the millionaires drive? Where do they live? How do they dress? These questions and more were answered in this book. Each chapter revealed so much information and inspiration. More noteworthy is that the book revealed that millionaire status is quite attainable.
Secrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth
[amazon_link asins=’0060763280′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’851cc736-7abe-11e7-932d-759de9c87252′] This book was a game changer for me. First the book introduced the Jars money management system. My money management system was in full swing before I read this book. After reading it, I had to rethink everything my system was doing. Second, it will show you your personal money blueprint and how it has affected your thinking about money. Finally, the “Wealth Files” have action items for you to take.
Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine
[amazon_link asins=’073521414X’ template=’ProductAd’ store=’readdy-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’a161b7bd-7abe-11e7-9f2b-6ff50cb9db35′] A business book being used for personal finance, yes it is. The advice and action items presented in this book can be used in your personal finances and that makes the advice in this book valuable. The four principles that the author talks about will be of a great benefit if you do not use a budget. The book also added some new inspiration for my money management system.
Books are just one of the many resources out there that can help you on your journey. Whichever solution you choose to help you improve your financial situation, just realize that it won’t work unless you take action.
