Now I have read my fair share of books. I would not consider myself a book worm, but I do enjoy reading self improvement books, and business centered literature. Anyways, recently I was driving in the car with my wife and kids to get some lunch, and my wife broke the silence with an odd and random question she's never asked me before. She asked me "what would you say your top 3 books are???" I honestly couldn't give her a complete answer. I knew for sure 2 of the 3. But that 3rd book spot had many titles that came to mind. After much thought I finally decided on what books I would suggest for anyone to read, regardless of their profession, situation in life, or interest. I would also like to note that these 3 book that I am going to mention have changed my perception of life in one way or another...
3. Total Money Makeover
By: Dave Ramsey
You may know the author of this book as the "money guy" or "get out of debt and stay out!" or "cut up your credit cards guy!" Dave Ramsey is a gentleman that I have followed since I was in middle school. My dad used to listen to him on the radio, so inevitably I would listen in as well. It wasn't till college, however, that I really start to hone in on his message. "Stay out of debt"
Dave has built his business off of teaching others how to manage money, stay out of debt, give generously, save for retirement, and help your kids go to college. This book the total money makeover outlines step by step what you need to be doing; and what majority of millionaires have done to get wealthy. Needless to say that this book and listening to Dave's radio program has taught my wife and I how to manage money effectively within our own household and into my Wedding Photography Business.
Honorable mention for 3rd place is "millionaire next door" by: Thomas J. Stanley
2. How to win friends and Influence People
by: Dale Carnegie
Now this book may or may not come as a surprise to you. However, after reading this book for the first time 4-5 years ago I remember thinking while flipping the pages, "if everyone read and practiced what was outlined in this book, the world would be a far better place" This is why I always recommended this book to anyone who asks. It is a book that gets studied at the collegiate level, in businesses, and just everyday people. If you are not a reader and just prefer an outline I will leave the bullet points below as even those if practiced can make your interactions with people a more positive experience.
- Become genuinely interested in other people.
- Smile.
- Remember that a person's name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language.
- Be a good listener. ...
- Talk in terms of the other person's interests.
- Make the other person feel important – and do it sincerely.
Now go read it!
1. Rich Dad Poor Dad
by: Robert Kiyosaki
This is also a no brainer for first place I might add. I never used to be a good reader, and this is in fact the first book I have finished cover to cover. Prior to this I had tried to keep up with reading after college, but just could never finish the book in front of me. Not only that but I have probably read through it at least 5 more times. Once I finished reading this book, My perception of what I thought I should be doing changed. This led me to continue reading and looking for more information on business. Honestly, this is the book that does it for thousands and thousands of people. If you feel like your stuck in life financially, pick this book up and I promise your perception on money will change. Now I have to warn you though the book is not a "how to book". In fact, the topics discussed are vague at best. I believe, however, that the true message behind rich dad poor dad is to understand how money truly works, and understand the mindset of the rich, and the mindset of the poor.
Enjoy,
Brendon
