Personal Finance Books That Made A Difference For Me

The Frugal Law Student recently asked if I would share which personal finance books had inspired me.  I don’t know if inspired is the word I’d choose but The Millionaire Next Door and Smart Couples Finish Rich were the first to come to mind for the reasons I describe below:

The Millionaire Next Door
I think the first personal finance book I read that really got me excited about the power of frugal habits combined with long term savings was the Millionaire Next Door. I like to think our family follows the basics of living frugally and saving/investing money as described in the book.

Smart Couples Finish Rich: 9 Steps to Creating a Rich Future for You & Your Partner
I also enjoyed Smart Couples Finish Rich; not so much because of its unique content but because it’s a personal finance book I could get my wife to read. Obviously having both partners in a marriage on the same page is necessary for successful financial planning and execution. 

One last comment on personal finance books; it’s not enough to just read them, you have to put the practices you learn about into place to make a difference. It’s easy to get pumped up about saving or making money after reading one of these books, it’s another to get out there and make it happen.

I’d say you’re much better off just reading one or two books about money and then taking the time to make changes in your life; rather than spending time staying up on the latest personal finance best seller. Once you’ve implemented what you learned, then move onto another book.

Ben Edwards, the founder of Money Smart Life, saved up enough to buy a Nintendo back when he was 12 years old. When he used the money to buy shares of Wal-Mart stock instead, he knew he wasn't like the other kids... His addiction to personal finance has paid off for his family and now he's helping you to afford the life that you want. Check him out on the web at Google Plus, Twitter and Facebook.

All posts by Ben Edwards