Bookstores are filled with the latest trends for making, saving, and investing money. My bookshelf, however, is stocked with some trusted resources so when the economic roller coaster takes a dip, my checkbook doesn’t. Here are a few of my financial favorites:
Your Money or Your Life:
Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving
Financial Independence—Joe Dominguez & Vicki Robin.
Several years ago, a good friend recommended this book, to which I often refer when facing a financial issue. Readers are encouraged to think of this book as a core curriculum for simplifying as a means to discovering a richer life that taps into one’s gifts, passions, and sense of purpose. Takeaway quote: “Money is something we choose to trade our life energy for.”
Start Late, Finish Rich:
A No-Fail Plan for Achieving Financial Freedom At Any Age—David Bach
It’s been said a person’s bookshelves reveal a lot about the person. My extensive David Bach collection affirms my affinity for this bestselling author who translates complex financial planning into an easy and accessible road map. Bach dismisses the “coulda-woulda-shoulda” philosophy of past money mistakes, directing readers instead to focus on the present and future. Also check out Bach’s Smart Couples Finish Rich, Smart Women Finish Rich, and 1001 Financial Words You Need To Know—or you can swing by my house and participate in the Mangan book loan program. I’ll charge a fee, however. Bach would insist.
Live Rich
—Stephen M. Pollan & Mark Levine
This writing combo snags the award for best book titles—their other popular title is Die Broke. Pollan and Levine say money really can buy happiness if we act rationally rather than emotionally. With straightforward chapters that are observational and insightful, Live Rich dedicates attention to the nuances of our daily life that dictate our money behavior, like cell phone use, for example. Best advice: “Living rich isn’t the same as being rich.”
The Tao of Warren Buffet
—Mary Buffett & David Clark
Warren Buffett’s investment achievements are unmatched. Driven by integrity and common sense, America’s most popular businessman shares his favorite economic insights—presented as direct quotes—that have guided him for many years.
The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom:
Practical and Spiritual Steps So You Can Stop Worrying—Suze Orman
For someone like me who makes worrying a sport, this was the first book that gave me an authentic sense of release and empowerment about money. Orman has an approachable manner, which is probably why she has become such a well-respected financial guru. Plus, I love her no-nonsense advice to a debt-riddled society. She’s an advocate of the law of attraction, stressing the need to “face your money fears and create new, positive truths.”
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