I look back at my own journey and realize how much I worried about the future. Not just my own future, but the future of my family. I remember countless nights spent staring at spreadsheets, trying to figure out how to make sure my children would be okay, that my parents would have the care they needed when the time came. It felt overwhelming, a constant weight on my shoulders.
I learned, though, that worrying isn't enough. We need to do something. We need to build a foundation, not just for our own comfort, but for the well-being of those we love. That’s why I’ve put together this list of books. They aren’t about get-rich-quick schemes or complicated investments. They’re about building a life of financial peace, one step at a time, so you can truly enjoy the moments that matter most – whether it's watching your grandkids play in Fayetteville, Arkansas, or feeling secure knowing your health plan is in place, or even just having the freedom to choose the kind of care you want as you age, avoiding the worry of a nursing home. These books offer wisdom and practical advice that can empower you to take control and build a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.
In God We Trust: Morally Responsible Investing
This book is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of economics, morality, and personal values. The author, George Schwartz, shares his perspective on the importance of making informed investment decisions that align with one's principles. As I reflect on my own experiences as a portfolio manager, I can attest to the significance of separating my personal values from my financial decisions. It's a delicate balance, but one that is essential for achieving long-term financial success and a clear conscience. The book delves into the current economic landscape, highlighting the benefits of pro-growth policies and the rise of socialism among certain groups. Schwartz argues that investing in companies that align with one's moral values is not only a practical approach but also a matter of personal conviction. He shares the story of his firm, Ave Maria Mutual Funds, which has attracted a significant following among like-minded investors. Through Schwartz's narrative, readers will gain insight into the world of responsible investing and the importance of staying true to one's principles in the face of market fluctuations. Ultimately, this book is a timely reminder that our financial decisions have the power to shape not only our own futures but also the world around us. By exploring the relationship between economics and morality, Schwartz offers a compelling vision for how we can cultivate a more values-driven approach to investing.
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Broker Executive
This book is a comprehensive guide for business owners and executives to maximize their insurance benefits and work closely with insurance brokers. The author presents a unique concept of the 'broker executive', an individual who adheres to the highest standards of customer service and business ethics. The book delves into the thought process a broker should follow to find the perfect solution for a business, with a strong emphasis on the use of life insurance as a valuable business tool. By understanding the strategies and techniques that top brokers use, business executives can avoid common hazards in the insurance world and create additional value using insurance. The book explores techniques like succession planning and key personnel retention strategies, providing business owners with a deeper understanding of how to leverage insurance to drive growth and success.
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Killing the Market: Legendary Investor Robert W. Wilson
Robert W. Wilson is the greatest investor of all time, on the only criterion that counts: percentage return on capital. What you make with what you have, what you started out with. He would be the first to point out that there are investors richer than himself; but on a percentage-return basis, he is unmatched, and untouched. He received $15,000 from his mother in 1958, and he ran this stake to the fabulous sum of $230 million, by 1986. With assistance he himself sought out, he then nearly quadrupled his net worth to $800 million, by the year 2000. This return, after taxes no less, is more than 50,000 to one. More than 5,000,000 percent. He did it in about forty years, without partners. How? How, possibly? This book tries to find, or at least get close to, an answer. Robert Wilson quit the investing business in 1986, because he had "lost his touch," as he said. The most productive of men, the hardest working of men, he started to move into philanthropy. Eventually he became just about the most important philanthropist in the United States. Of the $800 million he accumulated, he had given away fully $700 million of it at the time of his death, in 2013, by his own hand. Movingly, Robert Wilson's gifts were never to things that entertained him, or to pet projects; they were always to charities trying very hard to make the world a better place for everybody. His selflessness and generosity inspire awe, and we can only hope to learn from his remarkable story.
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The Great Money Reset: Change Your Work, Change Your Wealth, Change Your Life
As someone who has seen many people in my book club struggle with financial stress and uncertainty, I can personally relate to the importance of making significant changes in one's life. The book I want to talk about today is a valuable resource for anyone looking to take control of their financial future and create the life they truly want. The author, Jill Schlesinger, a noted financial expert, acknowledges that the pandemic has forced us to re-evaluate our priorities and question our current path. The book provides a clear and concise framework for making big changes, from negotiating with your employer to starting or selling a business, moving to a new location, retraining for a new career, taking time off to find yourself, or even retiring early. The book addresses the tough questions that many of us have asked ourselves, such as whether quitting your job is the right decision or whether pursuing a graduate degree is a wise investment. It also offers practical advice on tax and investment moves to secure one's future and provides an essential roadmap for navigating the present era. The book's approach is straightforward, yet empowering, and I found the author's signature clarity, wit, and honesty to be both reassuring and inspiring. By the end of the book, you'll have the tools and confidence to break free from your unsatisfying past and thrive, regardless of what the future holds.
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The Richest Man in Babylon: The Complete Annotated Edition
This ancient text, written over 2,000 years ago, has been a trusted guide for generations seeking wisdom on personal finance and wealth creation. The story begins with the introduction of a naive young man who travels from his small village to the great city of Babylon in search of success and wealth. Along the way, he meets a wise old man named Ka-Shub, who shares with him the timeless principles for building wealth and securing a prosperous future. These principles, written in a series of parables, provide practical advice on topics such as budgeting, saving, and investing. The old man's teachings are conveyed through a series of short stories, each one illustrating a key lesson that readers can apply to their own lives. One of the most striking aspects of this book is its ability to balance practicality with spiritual growth. The author reminds us that true wealth is not just about accumulating riches, but also about cultivating wisdom, compassion, and inner peace. The book's themes of responsibility, hard work, and perseverance are just as relevant today as they were in the past. The author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book an enjoyable read for anyone interested in personal finance, self-improvement, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the world around them. By following the principles outlined in this book, readers can gain a clear understanding of what it takes to achieve financial freedom and prosperity.
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