I look back at my grandma, Elsie, and I think about how much she worried. Not about big things, necessarily, but about the little things that add up – will she have enough to eat? Will she be able to visit her grandkids? Will she be okay? She worked so hard her whole life, and seeing her worry in her later years really stuck with me. It made me realize how important it is to feel secure, especially as we move into retirement.
That’s why I put together this list of books. It's not about getting rich, it's about feeling prepared, feeling confident, and feeling like you have a plan for a happy and fulfilling next chapter. Whether you’ll be exploring the beauty of Alaska, settling into a cozy home in Fairbanks, or simply wanting peace of mind, these books offer practical advice and inspiring perspectives to help you build a secure and joyful retirement. Let's embark on this adventure together – your Fairbanks adventure starts here!
The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness
This book has the power to transform your relationship with money, and its impact is still being felt by thousands of people who have read it and implemented its principles. Dave Ramsey's approach is straightforward andlogical, and he debunks many myths that have been perpetuated about personal finance. He explains how the American dream, which encourages people to keep up with the latest trends and belongings, is actually a recipe for financial disaster. The strategies outlined in this book are based on the idea that financial freedom is within reach, and that anyone can achieve it by taking control of their spending habits and debts. What I love about this book is that it's not just about the "how-to" of personal finance, but also about the emotional and psychological aspects of money. By the end of the book, you'll be motivated to make changes and start your journey towards financial fitness. The stories of financial struggles and successes that are shared throughout the book are truly inspiring and will make you want to tackle your own financial burdens. The key to this book's success lies in its simplicity and its focus on the individual, rather than trying to sell elaborate financial products or schemes.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
IRAs, 401(k)s & Other Retirement Plans: Strategies for Taking Your Money Out
This book is a comprehensive guide to navigating the rules surrounding retirement plans, providing individuals with the knowledge and strategies needed to avoid stiff taxes and penalties. The author's goal is to empower readers to make informed decisions about their retirement funds, ensuring they can save their nest egg from the IRS. The book covers a wide range of topics, including tax strategies before and after retirement, required distributions, and the implications of divorce and death on retirement plans. It also delves into the specifics of inherited plans, explaining how to take money out while minimizing tax liabilities. With its 16th edition, the book stays up-to-date with the latest changes, including new start ages for required distributions, updated contribution limits, and new exceptions to the 10% early distribution tax. The book's emphasis on avoiding penalties and taxes makes it an invaluable resource for anyone approaching retirement or dealing with the complexities of retirement planning.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
The Ultimate Book of Fun Things to Do in Retirement: Volume 1
Unleash your inner adventurer and get ready to plan the ultimate retirement that's anything but boring. This audiobook is packed with hundreds of ideas to spark your imagination and help you create an exciting, active, happy, healthy, and mentally sharp life after work. You'll discover seven simple steps to rock the retired life, the secret to finding purpose and meaning in retirement, and how to focus on what truly makes you happy and fulfilled. The audiobook also ignites your wanderlust with travel inspiration, while providing healthy and active outdoor activities, fantastic ideas for staying physically and mentally fit, and ways to make new friends and stay socially active. You'll also unleash your creativity with exciting new hobbies and harness the potential of tech tools and online connectivity to thrive in retirement. The book dives into standout topics such as cruising, motorhome travel, photography, and more, and provides guidance on approaching retirement with a positive mindset and embracing this new chapter of your life with enthusiasm and purpose. Whether you're looking for tips on travel, hobbies, or social activities, you'll find a wealth of practical advice and inspiring ideas for every interest and mobility level. Your retirement will be anything but boring, so if you're ready to start your golden years off right, grab this audiobook to plan your ultimate fun-filled retirement today!
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
The Money Class: Learn to Create Your New American Dream
Learning to trust your inner voice and finding hope in the midst of financial uncertainty is at the heart of this inspiring book. The author, Suze Orman, shares her expertise and personal experience to empower readers to take control of their lives and create a brighter financial future. Suze's journey to becoming a leading personal finance expert is a testament to her own journey, and she understands the importance of setting a clear plan, avoiding debt, and building wealth. With her trademark directness, Suze guides readers through nine empowering classes, covering everything from daily actions that can restore hope to strategies for managing family finances, taking care of a home, and planning for retirement. She also shares practical advice on navigating the complex world of real estate, building a successful career, and rebuilding after a professional setback. Suze's approach is refreshingly straightforward, yet compassionate, and her goal is to provide readers with the tools and confidence they need to tackle even the most daunting financial challenges. By the end of this book, readers will have a clear understanding of how to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape and create their own path to financial security and peace of mind.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century (Think and Grow Rich Series)
This timeless classic has been a beacon of inspiration for generations, and its principles remain as relevant today as they were decades ago. The author's journey to uncover the secrets of success is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. By studying the lives of some of the world's most successful individuals, the author reveals the universal principles that have driven their achievements. What sets these individuals apart from others is not just their natural talent, but rather their ability to think and act in a way that fosters success. The author shares stories of visionaries like Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford, who not only achieved incredible success but also left a lasting impact on the world. The updated version of this book brings these timeless principles to life through the stories of contemporary millionaires and billionaires, such as Bill Gates, Mary Kay Ash, and Sir John Templeton, who have achieved their wealth through relentless effort and strategic thinking. The author skillfully weaves together anecdotes and examples to create a comprehensive guide to achieving success, one that is both accessible and empowering. By applying these principles, readers can unlock their own potential and embark on a journey of personal and professional growth, just as the author and countless others have done before them. The author's dedication to helping readers achieve their goals is evident on every page, making this book a must-read for anyone looking to make a positive impact in their life and the world around them.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)