I think back to my grandma Ruth. She worked her whole life, a seamstress in Montgomery, Alabama, always worried about having enough. She dreamt of a peaceful retirement – time to tend her garden, spend time with her family, and maybe even take a trip. But those worries, that constant stress about money, shadowed her joy. It broke my heart.
That's why I created this curated reading list. It’s not about getting rich; it’s about finding freedom. Freedom from worry, freedom to pursue what truly matters, and freedom to enjoy the years you’ve earned. Retirement should be a chapter filled with joy, connection, and purpose, not another source of stress. Whether you're meticulously planning for a health plan, considering options for your family, or even thinking about the future of nursing home care, these books offer practical steps and a shift in mindset to help you build a retirement that feels truly yours. Let’s unlock that best version of your retirement, together.
The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom: Practical and Spiritual Steps So You Can Stop Worrying
This book is a powerful guide to taking control of your finances and breaking free from the cycle of financial stress and anxiety. Suze Orman's inspiring story is truly a testament to the transformative power of mindset and determination. I have had the privilege of meeting Suze Orman in person, and her energy and passion are contagious. She has a way of making you feel like you are worth it, like you are deserving of financial freedom and happiness. The book is not just about managing money, but about understanding the psychological and spiritual power that money has in our lives. It's about recognizing that our fears and doubts are holding us back, and that by facing them head-on, we can overcome the barriers that stand in our way. The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom is a practical and spiritual guide that offers a holistic approach to personal finance. It's a book that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately, inspire you to take action. Suze Orman's wisdom and experience are distilled into actionable advice that will help you see how your past holds the key to your financial future, and how you can create new truths that will set you free. By following the principles outlined in this book, you will be empowered to trust yourself more than others, to be open to receiving all that you are meant to have, and to understand the lessons of the money cycle. This book is not just a guide to managing your finances, but a journey of self-discovery and empowerment that will leave you feeling motivated, inspired, and ready to take on the world.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
Effortless Savings: A Money Management Guide to Saving Without Sacrifice
Everybody wants to save money, but most consumers are not willing to give up their favorite products, entertainment, and travel choices. This book offers a simple and practical game plan to make substantial savings without compromising one's lifestyle. It's perfect for readers at any income level or household size, covering everything from grocery shopping to banking and credit card techniques. One of the most appealing aspects of this book is its emphasis on easy and painless methods to reduce bills, such as telecom, insurance, and home energy costs. Additionally, the strategies outlined make it simple to cut the costs of dining out, entertainment, vacations, and auto maintenance. Whether shopping for clothing, household goods, or health and beauty products, this book provides a wealth of effective tips that can save readers thousands of dollars. I was reminded of my own struggles with budgeting when I first started my family, and the strategies in this book helped me to make significant changes and start saving more effectively. One of the most inspiring aspects of this book is that it's currently being used by The University of New Brunswick, Canada's oldest English-speaking university, for their Personal Financial Planning Course, which tells you that the strategies are tried, tested, and effective.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
Hard Money: Financial Independence, Retire Early - join the FIRE movement igniting the world
Living a life of financial freedom is the ultimate goal for many of us. We dream of breaking free from the daily grind and pursuing our passions without the burden of money worries. However, achieving this state of financial independence requires more than just good intentions - it demands discipline, patience, and a clear understanding of personal finance.
Building wealth is not about keeping up with the latest trends or buying expensive items just to show off. It's about creating long-term value and securing a stable financial future. This book is a step-by-step guide that teaches you how to save money every month, regardless of your income or financial situation. It also reveals common pitfalls that can lead to financial disaster, and shares insights from those who have achieved their financial goals through hard work and smart decisions.
The author emphasizes that building wealth is not a quick fix, but rather a marathon effort. By adopting the right mindset, getting the right information, and making smart financial decisions, anyone can achieve their financial goals and live a life of freedom and fulfillment. The book encourages readers to be proactive, learn from others' experiences, and take control of their financial destiny. By doing so, you'll be on your way to creating a better future, where your money works for you, not against you.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
The Great Money Reset: Change Your Work, Change Your Wealth, Change Your Life
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of our post-pandemic world, it's natural to wonder what changes we need to make to create the life we truly desire. For many of us, the answer lies in our finances and the way we approach our careers. A trusted financial expert shares their insights and expertise in a new book that offers a roadmap for making significant improvements. The book's author recognizes that the current era presents a unique opportunity for us to rethink our priorities and make bold moves towards a more fulfilling life. By breaking down the process into ten manageable steps, this book empowers readers to take control of their financial future and make deliberate choices about their careers, lifestyles, and overall well-being. As we consider the possibilities and potential sacrifices involved in making these changes, it's essential to approach our decisions with clarity, wit, and a willingness to adapt to an uncertain future. By doing so, we can put ourselves in a strong position to thrive, regardless of what the future holds.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)
The Ultimate Book of Fun Things to Do in Retirement: Volume 1
This audiobook is like a breath of fresh air for anyone who's ever wondered what the golden years could be like. It's all about planning an exciting, active, happy, healthy, and mentally sharp life after work. I remember when I was in my 60s and felt like I was stuck in a rut, like I had nothing to look forward to. But then I stumbled upon this audiobook and it completely changed my perspective. I started thinking about all the things I could do, all the places I could go, and all the people I could meet. It's like a wake-up call, a reminder that retirement doesn't have to mean boredom or stagnation. Inside this audiobook, you'll find hundreds of ideas to spark your imagination and help you plan your ultimate retirement. You'll learn how to focus on what truly makes you happy and fulfilled, and how to make the most of your time. There are pages and pages of travel inspiration, outdoor activities, health and wellness ideas, social opportunities, engaging hobbies, and even tips on using technology to thrive in retirement. It's like having a treasure trove of possibilities at your fingertips. What I love most about this audiobook is that it's not just about listing off ideas, it's about inspiring you to live your best retirement life. It's about approaching 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 to suit every interest and mobility level. Trust me, your retirement will be anything but boring.
Discover this book on Amazon (affiliate link)