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I Will Teach You to Be Rich: No Guilt. No Excuses. Just a 6-Week Program That Works (Second Edition) Paperback – May 14, 2019
byRamit Sethi(Author)
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As seen on the new NETFLIX series! The groundbreakingNEW YORK TIMES andWALL STREET JOURNAL BESTSELLER that taught a generation how to earn more, save more, and live a rich life—now in a revised 2nd edition.
Buy as many lattes as you want. Choose the right accounts and investments so your money grows for you—automatically. Best of all, spend guilt-free on the things you love.
Personal finance expert Ramit Sethi has been called a “wealth wizard” byForbes and the “new guru on the block” byFortune. Now he’s updated and expanded his modern money classic for a new age, delivering a simple, powerful, no-BS 6-week program that just works.
I Will Teach You to Be Rich will show you:
• How to crush your debt and student loans faster than you thought possible
• How to set up no-fee, high-interest bank accounts that won’t gouge you for every penny
• How Ramit automates his finances so his money goes exactly where he wants it to—and how you can do it too
• How to talk your way out of late fees (with word-for-word scripts)
• How to save hundreds or even thousands per month (and still buy what you love)
• A set-it-and-forget-it investment strategy that’s dead simple and beats financial advisors at their own game
• How to handle buying a car or a house, paying for a wedding, having kids, and other big expenses—stress free
• The exact words to use to negotiate a big raise at work
Plus, this 10th anniversary edition features over 80 new pages, including:
• New tools
• New insights on money and psychology
• Amazing stories of how previous readers used the book to create their rich lives
Master your money—and then get on with your life.
Buy as many lattes as you want. Choose the right accounts and investments so your money grows for you—automatically. Best of all, spend guilt-free on the things you love.
Personal finance expert Ramit Sethi has been called a “wealth wizard” byForbes and the “new guru on the block” byFortune. Now he’s updated and expanded his modern money classic for a new age, delivering a simple, powerful, no-BS 6-week program that just works.
I Will Teach You to Be Rich will show you:
• How to crush your debt and student loans faster than you thought possible
• How to set up no-fee, high-interest bank accounts that won’t gouge you for every penny
• How Ramit automates his finances so his money goes exactly where he wants it to—and how you can do it too
• How to talk your way out of late fees (with word-for-word scripts)
• How to save hundreds or even thousands per month (and still buy what you love)
• A set-it-and-forget-it investment strategy that’s dead simple and beats financial advisors at their own game
• How to handle buying a car or a house, paying for a wedding, having kids, and other big expenses—stress free
• The exact words to use to negotiate a big raise at work
Plus, this 10th anniversary edition features over 80 new pages, including:
• New tools
• New insights on money and psychology
• Amazing stories of how previous readers used the book to create their rich lives
Master your money—and then get on with your life.
- Print length352 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherWorkman Publishing Company
- Publication dateMay 14, 2019
- Dimensions6 x 0.75 x 8.95 inches
- ISBN-101523505745
- ISBN-13978-1523505746
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more.Read it now.
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Popular Highlights in this book
Sometimes the most advanced thing you can do is the basics, consistently.Highlighted by 9,858 Kindle readers- Cynics don’t want results; they want an excuse to not take action. Ironically, even if they win their own manufactured argument, they lose overall, because they’re stuck in a prison of their mind.Highlighted by 8,556 Kindle readers
- The single most important factor to getting rich is getting started, not being the smartest person in the room.Highlighted by 8,126 Kindle readers
- The single most important thing you can do to be rich is to start early.Highlighted by 6,513 Kindle readers
From the Publisher
 Money for Couples |  I Will Teach You to Be Rich: The Journal |  How to Turn $100 into $1,000,000 |  In Case You Get Hit By a Bus |  Eight Dates |  Smart Brevity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Customer Reviews | 4.6 out of 5 stars189 | 4.7 out of 5 stars1,463 | 4.6 out of 5 stars59 | 4.7 out of 5 stars759 | 4.7 out of 5 stars5,147 | 4.6 out of 5 stars2,267 |
| Price | $15.85 | $11.99 | $9.99 | $10.24 | $14.21 | $14.68 |
| Million-copy bestselling author, podcaster, and Netflix star Ramit Sethi helps readers navigate the tricky waters of handling and talking about money as a couple as in this programmatic and definitive book. | As seen on the new NETFLIX series! What’s Your Rich Life? An interactive journal from the bestselling author of I Will Teach You to Be Rich. | The updated edition of the bestselling kids' guide to money: earning it, saving it, and investing it. | A step-by-step program for getting your life in order, so you’re prepared for the unexpected. | Strengthen and deepen your love with a fun, ingenious program of eight life-changing conversations—on essential topics such as money, sex, and trust—from two of the world’s leading marriage researchers and clinicians. | Brevity is confidence. Length is fear. |
Editorial Reviews
Review
“Don’t let the breezy, irreverent style of this book fool you. It contains serious advice on personal-finance decisions from budgeting and savings to spending and investing.” —Burton G. Malkiel, author ofA Random Walk Down Wall Street
“Ramit Sethi is a rising star in the world of personal finance writing . . . one singularly attuned to the sensibilities of his generation . . . His style is part frat boy and part Silicon Valley geek, with a little bit of San Francisco hipster thrown in.”—San Francisco Chronicle
“The easiest way to get rich is to inherit. This is the second best way—knowledge and some discipline. If you’re bold enough to do the right thing, Ramit will show you how. Highly recommended.” —Seth Godin
“Particularly appealing to the younger generation with its easy-to-read, no-holds-barred language.”—Business Insider
“Ramit’s like the guy you wish you knew in college who would sit you down over a beer and fill you in on what you really need to know about money—no sales pitch, just good advice.” —Christopher Stevenson, Credit Union Executives Society
“Smart, bold, and practical. I Will Teach You to Be Rich is packed with tips that actually work. This is a great guide to money management for twentysomethings—and everybody else.” —J. D. Roth, Editor, GetRichSlowly.org
“. . . one of our favorite personal finance sites.” —Lifehacker
“Ramit Sethi is a rising star in the world of personal finance writing . . . one singularly attuned to the sensibilities of his generation . . . His style is part frat boy and part Silicon Valley geek, with a little bit of San Francisco hipster thrown in.”—San Francisco Chronicle
“The easiest way to get rich is to inherit. This is the second best way—knowledge and some discipline. If you’re bold enough to do the right thing, Ramit will show you how. Highly recommended.” —Seth Godin
“Particularly appealing to the younger generation with its easy-to-read, no-holds-barred language.”—Business Insider
“Ramit’s like the guy you wish you knew in college who would sit you down over a beer and fill you in on what you really need to know about money—no sales pitch, just good advice.” —Christopher Stevenson, Credit Union Executives Society
“Smart, bold, and practical. I Will Teach You to Be Rich is packed with tips that actually work. This is a great guide to money management for twentysomethings—and everybody else.” —J. D. Roth, Editor, GetRichSlowly.org
“. . . one of our favorite personal finance sites.” —Lifehacker
About the Author
Ramit Sethi writes about money, business, and psychology for a million readers each month at iwillteachyoutoberich.com. He’s been featured inFortune, theNew York Times, the Tim Ferris podcast, and theWall Street Journal. He studied technology and psychology at Stanford and lives in New York.
Product details
- Publisher : Workman Publishing Company; Revised edition (May 14, 2019)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 352 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1523505745
- ISBN-13 : 978-1523505746
- Item Weight : 1.04 pounds
- Dimensions : 6 x 0.75 x 8.95 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #126 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #4 inPersonal Finance (Books)
- #9 inSuccess Self-Help
- Customer Reviews:
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RAMIT SETHI is the author of the New York Times bestseller, I Will Teach You To Be Rich. He writes for over a million readers on his newsletter and social channels. Listen to his new podcast on love, money, & psychology: http://iwillteachyoutoberich.com/podcast
Customer reviews
4.6 out of 5 stars
21,458 global ratings
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find this financial advice book easy to follow, with step-by-step guidance and a realistic approach. Moreover, they appreciate its entertainment value, with plenty of opportunities for chuckles throughout. The book is particularly beneficial for young adults, helping them navigate personal finances and change their perspective on budgeting. Additionally, customers value its financial insights, with one noting it provides a clearer guide to managing wealth, while another mentions it covers topics from budgets to credit cards.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
715 customers mention "Financial advice"688 positive27 negative
Customers appreciate the financial advice in the book, finding it a good starting point for managing personal finances and learning about money psychology.
"...book I've read on personal finances because ithandles those real life topics around money that happen to all of us, but no one else is talking about."Read more
"...It also provides avaluable resource for those seeking advice (and scripts) not only on discussing a prenup but also for other difficult money..."Read more
"...And yet, theguidance was still super useful because I didn't make financially unsavvy decisions that would delay my being able to set up a savvy,..."Read more
"...to grow their wealth, ease financial anxiety, andalign their money with their personal goals -- just be sure to consult other investment literature..."Read more
527 customers mention "Readability"516 positive11 negative
Customers find the book easy to read and engaging, noting it's a good starting point for learning about personal finance.
"...It's still an awesome book and by far thebest most COMPLETE book I've read on personal finances because it handles those real life topics around..."Read more
"...and funding a 401-K (Hotdiggity!) and make it both hilarious andpowerful...."Read more
"This is myfavorite book that I return to over and over again. It is the one I gift the most frequently to friends, family, and recent grads...."Read more
"...and deal with the constant self-advertisement, this book isworth your time and money."Read more
472 customers mention "Ease of use"422 positive50 negative
Customers find the book easy to use, appreciating its step-by-step approach and automation focus, with one customer noting it's not overly technical.
"...4. wants aneasy to understand plan on how to pay off debts and still enjoy life (without eating ramen noodles and cutting coupons) 5...."Read more
"...Thebook touts simplicity and automation, which offers a life raft to those adrift in a sea of confusing advice about market timing and paying an..."Read more
"...This bookgave me the vague and general understanding of what I was going to try to set up before I had the means to do so, before I was even..."Read more
"...The book provides agood foundation for the average person to grow their wealth, ease financial anxiety, and align their money with their personal..."Read more
195 customers mention "Advice"183 positive12 negative
Customers appreciate the book's advice, noting that it provides insight and can change one's mindset, with one customer describing it as a hands-on guide to a better future.
"...It'll make you laugh in some parts(fo real!). And...itgets you motivated and makes you want to start taking action as soon as you've finished..."Read more
"...Theyreveal candid discussions and personal details of painful money conversations, surprising to no one in a committed relationship...."Read more
"...In spite of its helpful,accessible advice, I can't rate this book more than four stars...."Read more
"...But the outcome is brilliantly worth it.You will FEEL better. You will FEEL more in control. You will HAVE more money...."Read more
132 customers mention "Humor"132 positive0 negative
Customers enjoy the book's humor, finding it highly entertaining with plenty of chuckles throughout.
"...Well, Ramit's book is like your second child. LMAO. It'sfun and actually really interesting to read!..."Read more
"...and funding a 401-K (Hotdiggity!) and make it bothhilarious and powerful...."Read more
"...There arequotes, testimonials, graphs (not too many), etc. and they all look and read great. Things I didn't like:..."Read more
"...it is easy to understand,not fancy words, if any the author explains it."Read more
68 customers mention "Age range"64 positive4 negative
Customers appreciate that the book is suitable for younger readers, particularly those in their 30s and under, with one customer noting it's great for college and high school students.
"...Bottom line: I Will Teach You to be Richcontains invaluable advice for younger, financially inexperienced people in an easily digestible format...."Read more
"Best part of the book is that herelates really well to a younger audience, good at keeping you interested...."Read more
"...'s easy to understand unlike other finance books and it'swritten for a younger population so it reads well and fun...."Read more
"...I do think it would be agood book for someone in their mid 20's, who are just starting off on their careers and looking for a path to financial..."Read more
61 customers mention "Money saving"61 positive0 negative
Customers appreciate the book's approach to saving money, noting that it can pay for itself and helps change perspectives on budgeting, while also eliminating fees.
"...he gives you exact scripts you can use to save money andget fees waived [3. Automating your finances]..."Read more
"...I've been able tokeep my fixed costs low and build up a nest egg so I am under little financial stress, even through my periods of low pay and job..."Read more
"...to manage costs for a wedding is to understand that there is aprice per person. You can dramatically vary expenses by adjusting those two things...."Read more
"Best $10 I spent! The book made me re-evaluate my investing strategy and I learned some interesting things about retirement accounts I didn’t know!..."Read more
56 customers mention "Relatability"50 positive6 negative
Customers find the book relatable, appreciating its realistic and no-nonsense approach.
"...And...it's real! Hekeeps it sooo real that he even talks about his discussion with his wife when bringing up the topic of having a PRENUP!!..."Read more
"...Well-played universe, well-played indeed...."Read more
"...No fluff,no generic inspiration, no sh!tty advice that makes you wonder "how the eff do I apply that to my situation?!"...."Read more
"...The advice is straightforward,relatable, and, most importantly, effective...."Read more
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Reviews with images
5 out of 5 stars
⭐ Awesome Book 📖 ✨
What made me take control of my money was that I was spending so much on a nice house, a lavish lifestyle, and a girlfriend who did not appreciate me. After waking up in the ER after trying to kill myself, I had to stay a couple of weeks in intensive care. I knew something had to change. I sold all my belongings to focus on what mattered. I converted a 1976 Dodge Tradesman van into living quarters. I left the Pacific Northwest and headed to San Diego, California. Winters are nearly perfect here, and I will find my true self here again.A few days ago, I bought this book looking to put my new unbound money to work. Now that I'm not putting it towards nearly $3,200 in rent, $500 towards car payments, utilities, and many more unnecessary expenses for a single man in his thirties. I started a couple of online businesses on the road, currently building them into something better than a 9 to 5 J.O.B.. I'm living a rich life full of connections and experiences with my loved ones, my mom, and siblings that I never had before. I laugh without returning afterward to a deep state of depression. I have such a deep, rich connection with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and I have returned to my Hebrew roots, and now seeking answers while asking the right questions.Thanks for writing your book. You'll be a part of turning my life from zero to hero. Thanks, man.
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Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2019First, let me start off by saying that I've read a lot of different books on personal finance. So I'm very familiar with Dave Ramsey's method of personal finances and a bunch of others. I've read tons of articles, blog posts, etc... on paying off debt and investing, etc...
So this topic isn't new to me.
So when I got this book (I got an advanced copy of it)I was figuring that I would read this book and probably wouldn't learn anything new.
I was thinking "ohhhkaaay...so it's gonna probably talk about how to get out of debt by reducing your spending to almost nothing, eat beans, rice and ramen noodles...cut coupons..and do this for several years then you'll be able to start living your life"
I figured it would be the same old information that I've read in all the other personal finance books....yaaawn!
Boy oh boy...was I ever wrong
I honestly have to say, that this book was the complete opposite of everything I've ever read.
For you parents, it's like having two kids.
You know..your first child is usually calm, relaxed, quiet, well mannered and well behaved.
Then you have child #2...expecting things to be pretty much the same...only to find out your second child is the complete opposite
Child #2 is a wild child. Crazy, loud, eats dirt...touches the bathroom handles in public washrooms and then the next minute has their fingers in their mouth
Well, Ramit's book is like your second child.
LMAO.
It's fun and actually really interesting to read! ( I know...I know..who says that about a dry topic like paying off debt, investing and saving?).
It'll make you laugh in some parts(fo real!).
And...it gets you motivated and makes you want to start taking action as soon as you've finished the chapter
He gives you action steps at the end of each chapter that you can start implementing right away!
And...it's real! He keeps it sooo real that he even talks about his discussion with his wife when bringing up the topic of having a PRENUP!! (ohhhh snaaaapp!! ...bring out the popcorn cuz it's about to go down!!)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Ok...so here's what I really liked about this book and thought was friggin awesome!
[1. Conscious Spending]
Ok...so we've all heard about "having a budget". And when we hear that..we automatically think "cut back on everything. Use water instead of milk in your cereal. Grow your own coffee beans at home in your backyard and make your own coffee to save a couple of dollars a day"...right?
But Ramit goes about this in a TOTALLY different way. And I love his approach to it. It's such a small shift in your mindset, but it has a HUGE impact!!
So basically, he's telling you this. Instead of thinking of your budget as a way to cut back and not enjoy life..think of it like a plan.
It's your plan where you are CONSCIOUSLY choosing how to SPEND your money each month.
But not only that... this is YOUR life! And to live a "rich" and "happy" life - you get to choose to spend on the things that make you happy.
So why not cut back on the things you hate - so that you can spend on the things you love!
As he says in Chapter 4 on Conscious Spending "conscious spending isn’t about cutting your spending on everything. That approach wouldn’t last two days. It is, quite simply, about choosing the things you love enough to spend extravagantly on—and then cutting costs mercilessly on the things you don’t love."
(BOOOM!! MIC DROP!!)
[2. Scripts to use to save you money]
You ever get nervous when calling up a financial company (like your credit cards) and then you don't know what to say.
Maybe you don't know how to negotiate, or you just get nervous and forget what to say.
Well...not to worry.
Ramit gives you WORD FOR WORD scripts that you can use to waive annual fees on your credit cards, and even get fees waived on your bank accounts!
I know...when I read that I was like "hoollld up..wutcha talkin bout Willis!"
I told you that this book was the complete opposite of other personal finance books. What other personal finance book is giving you exact scripts to use on how to call up your credit card and get annual fees waived?!
It's these small details that the average person wants to know cuz let's be real...who likes paying fees? Right?!
[3. Open and Honest]
What I really liked...which I've never seen before....was the willingness to be open and direct with the reader.
Ramit laid all the cards on the table and he mentions
a. the exact credit cards he uses
b. the exact bank accounts he uses
c. the exact online brokerage account he uses
d. the investments he puts his money in
Who else does that?
But not only that....like I said, he GOES THERE and talks about the very very very touchy and sensitive topic of having a prenup.
In Chapter 9 LOVE & MONEY - he talks about how he had this difficult conversation with his wife. He also talks about why he decided to do it and should you sign one or not?
Also in this chapter, he covers difficult topics around money like
a. How to help parents who are in debt
b. Should you tell your parents and friends how much money you have
c. Talking Money with your significant other
d. How to handle money when your spouse makes more than you
e. How to handle planning for a wedding
f. Negotiating your salary at work
and more and more...
I'm telling you...Chapter 9 is where it all goes down!
Just keepin it real with ya...this is the stuff that we REALLY want to know about. This is the real life stuff we deal with on a day to day basis that NOBODY IS TALKING ABOUT!!
I mean, sure...we want to know how to pay off debt, invest, etc... But let's be real. That part is boring.
That's like reading the first few chapters of a hot & steamy novel..like 50 shades of gray. It's necessary to build the story, but the REAL juicy stuff happens later on.... and that's the part you want to get to.
We've all had a difficult convo with someone about money (spouse, fiance, boyfriend/girlfriend, etc..)
Don't you wish you knew how to handle it better...well now you will! Now you'll have a plan
[4. He's very specific]
For example, in Chapter 7 he talks about investing. And he recommends setting up your asset allocation using David Swensen's recommendation. Swensen manages Yale's endowment for more than 30 years and has an amazing 13.5% annualized return.
He even gives you the exact percentage's to use
30 percent—Domestic equities
15 percent—Developed-world international equities
5 percent—Emerging-market equities
20 percent—Real estate investment trusts
15 percent—Government bonds
15 percent—Treasury inflation-protected securities
I like this because it takes the guess work out of it for you
Just do exactly what he's laid out - and boom! You've got a successful investing plan in place.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
WHAT'S DIFFERENT
Here are some things that I found different with this book vs other personal finance books
[1. Focus on Big wins, not small wins]
So for example, instead of chasing small percentages by getting introductory rates for high interest savings accounts, focus on your asset allocation and what you're invested in. Your time is much better spent focusing on that, and it will have much bigger returns in the long run
Ramit continues to remind us that it is better to use your time working on things that will have a big impact on your life (i.e. setting up your automated investing) vs spending hours or days looking for the perfect credit card.
[2. Word for Word Scripts]
As I mentioned, he gives you exact scripts you can use to save money and get fees waived
[3. Automating your finances]
Let's be real..who REALLY enjoys paying bills? Who really enjoys reading over investment statements and managing their money? No one!..that's who! Not even Ramit (he even admits this in the book)
Plus - we're all lazy. We don't really want to set aside time to look at our investments. We say we will...but let's be honest..most of us don't.
So in Chapter 5 - he shows you how to automate your finances so that you can get on with your life. He shows you how to setup a system so that your bills get paid automatically and your investment accounts get funded automatically.
And when it's all setup and done...you basically only have to spend 1hr a month looking over your finances, so that you can get on with the more important things in your life
[4. Conversations around money]
He talks about things that others don't talk about...like the judgement you get from friends and family when you spend money on certain things you like...or how we may judge others on things they spend..but we don't know the full context.
Or I'm sure we've all had that one friend who says to you "why do you still have that old iphone? Don't you think it's time to upgrade?"
This was very eye-opening to me and it was great to see someone finally be honest and talk about these things. I have never read a personal finance book that talks about these real life situations this way before
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
WHAT IS MISSING
Here are some things I found that were missing from the book
[1. Real Estate Investments]
I'm actually kind of surprised that he didn't talk about investing in real estate (residential or commercial)
This is such a hot topic, and there are TONS of Real estate related TV shows now about flipping homes, or agents finding these multi-million dollar homes for their clients.
I think it's a topic that many people are also interested in.
Also, just based on regular "street knowledge"...the average person probably has an easier time understanding real estate and owning property vs understanding how the stock market and index funds work.
They probably feel more comfortable with real estate because it's a physical asset, whereas the stock market may feel like black magic to a lot of people.
He talks about Cryptocurrency, so I thought for sure he'd talk about investing in real estate.
But he didn't
I wish he had touched on Real Estate as an investment and mention at least what percentage of your portfolio should be allocated towards real estate and how to go about investing in it in a strategic, methodical manner. Kind of like how he explained how to invest in the stock market
[2. Saving up and paying cash for your car]
I found it odd that he didn't talk about the option of saving up and paying for a car in cash.
He does talk about how to buy a car, but it involves getting a loan.
Which - I found ironic because Ramit is completely against debt.
So it didn't make sense to me why he is telling us to get a loan for a car
He mentions how to save up for other big ticket items (like your wedding, etc..) but he doesn't give you a plan on how to save up for your car and use cash so that you can avoid getting into debt and getting a car loan.
I'm not sure what the reason is behind this...but this was very surprising to me.
[3. Investing in blue-chip stable companies]
Ramit is against picking and investing in individual stocks. He recommends investing in Index Funds instead. And for the average person, I understand why
And..he explains why in the book (Chapter 7)
But - at the same time, I think there could have been an opportunity to mention in the book how to invest in well known, stable, big name companies that have been around for many decades that produce dividends and can be a good addition to your portfolio
I'm not saying that they should make up the majority of your portfolio, but perhaps a small percentage.
Ramit is very methodical - and I believe he could have given some sound advice on some criteria to look at for blue-chip companies that have been around forever, and would be solid investments.
One company that comes to mind that Warren Buffett publicly admits he likes is Coca-Cola. It's not an exciting company but it has a history of being stable and producing dividends for the investor.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
MAIN TAKEAWAY FROM THE BOOK
The main theme of this book is all about living your Rich Life
And of course, living a Rich Life will mean different things for different people.
For one person, that might mean always upgrading their seats on a flight to the seats with extra leg room...for another, that might mean always buying the VIP section tickets at concerts but also that person could care less about eating out at lunch so they always pack their lunch.
In Chapter 9 (A Rich Life) ...Ramit says :
"it’s about not having to think about money all the time and being able to travel and work on the things that interest me."
this pretty much sums it all up right here.
I realized that life is more about enjoying your money, and using it to do the things that bring you joy and make you happy. Whatever those things are for you. You will have to decide.
I already had a mindset of doing the things I enjoy...but this book helped me to get more clarity on exactly how to do that on a daily basis.
This book helped me to have a plan to set aside a specific amount each month towards things I love. And more importantly, how to NOT feel GUILTY about spending on things I enjoy (like upgrading my seats on flights or buying courtside basketball seats) because I am cutting back on things I don't like as much (like paying a cable bill)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
WHO SHOULD GET THIS BOOK
This book is for the person who
1. hates manually paying their bills each month
2. wants to have simple and easy investments that they actually understand
3. wants to not feel guilty about spending on things they love
4. wants an easy to understand plan on how to pay off debts and still enjoy life (without eating ramen noodles and cutting coupons)
5. wants tips for having real life awkward conversations with friends and family about money
6. wants to enjoy their money and know that in the background their money is growing and they will have enough to retire
7. is tired of the regular boring personal advice that they've read for years and years
Ramit's approach is like that one friend who tells you how it is. They call you out on your B.S. and you appreciate them for it cuz they always keep it real with you and you know that they want nothing but the best for ya.
If you like that quality in people, then you will most definitely enjoy this book!
also...just being honest...I would've given it 4.5 stars, but there was no way to do so. I think 5 stars is for absolute perfection
And since Ramit left out the topic of Real Estate Investing, he didn't discuss the option of saving up and paying cash for a car and I think he could've touched on investing in blue chip stable companies - I would say it's 4.5 stars (in my opinion)
It's still an awesome book and by far the best most COMPLETE book I've read on personal finances because it handles those real life topics around money that happen to all of us, but no one else is talking about. - Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2019I love this book because the author manages to take some of the driest material know to man - topics like how to ramp up that compound interest (Oh Boy!) and funding a 401-K (Hotdiggity!) and make it both hilarious and powerful. Ramit Sethi delights in puncturing the hot air balloons we all fill with our self-defeating money scripts. His irreverent wit has a way of allowing us to laugh at ourselves as he makes fun of our behaviors with money.
Much like when I read well-written nutrition books and somehow find the pounds peeling off, I found money making its way into my accounts just by reading Ramit's book. The book touts simplicity and automation, which offers a life raft to those adrift in a sea of confusing advice about market timing and paying an expert to help you "beat" the market. It's the financial equivalent of "Set it and forget it". He delves into more complex and time-intensive investing strategies as well, but while doing so he constantly reminds you that it's much easier, and probably more profitable, to stick your investments in an index fund and let it ride, just as Warren Buffett does in his will.
I read the first version of this book in 2009, soon after I had lost about $20K in student loans by investing it in the stock market (market timing unfortunately works in both directions ... for and against you). I took some of Ramit's advice to heart - automating much of my finances and opening several accounts in ING.com, an online bank that was eventually sold to a larger online bank, where many of my accounts still reside. Mint tells me that my net worth went from less less than $30K in 2009 to over $300K today. When offered an opportunity to join a private study group led by Ramit himself, and to read an early copy of the 2019 version of the book, I jumped at the chance. I realized from reading this 2nd Edition that although I had followed some of his ideas in the 1st Edition, I had neglected others. The most painful one being that I have spent way too much time in the last decade reviewing my finances and tinkering with investments. The target the book sets (after setting up everything to be automatic) is one hour per month to review finances; it's embarrassing to admit that in the previous 10 years, I have been closer to an hour per day than I have been to an hour per month. This new book strengthens my resolve to build more wealth by doing less.
The 2019 version is also unique from the 2009 version by the fact that the author is now a married man. Ramit is no longer just the brash renegade telling it like is, speaking truth to power, and backing down from no one. He is still all of that, but he also must now manage personal finances in relationship with his fiance and new wife. They reveal candid discussions and personal details of painful money conversations, surprising to no one in a committed relationship. What is surprising, and downright juicy, is that he pulls back the veil on the taboo subject of asking for and eventually arriving at a prenuptial agreement with his fiance. The bravery to bring those discussions out into the light, while exposing himself to potential ridicule and criticism, is commendable. It also provides a valuable resource for those seeking advice (and scripts) not only on discussing a prenup but also for other difficult money conversations.
In the first meeting of Ramit's private class to discuss the 2nd Edition, one of his first questions to the group was "What would you do if someone handed you a check for $10K?". He then proceeded to make good-natured fun of all of our grandiose puritanical responses about starting an orphanage, investing in stocks, paying off credit card debt, etc. His point was that most likely we would do the exact same thing with that $10K that you had been doing previously with your money. If you had spent too much and were in debt, you would probably continue to overspend and go into debt. It's not the money itself that changes your life, it is changing your attitudes towards, and your behavior with, money. Setting up systems and automating your finances is one very convenient way to change your behavior, because you intentionally set it only once, and then you forget about it and move on with your life, outside of the spreadsheet.
On the day before this book came out (May 13), I literally received a $50K check in the mail, totally unexpected. My aunt had come into a surprise inheritance from a distant relative and chose to share some of it with my family. Well-played universe, well-played indeed. Because of this book and the opportunity to discuss it with 150 like-minded individuals from all over the world and all kinds of financial backgrounds, I have full confidence that my family will do spectacular things with that money, but also that we will do it much more simply and automatically by following the systems laid out in this remarkable new book.5.0 out of 5 starsI love this book because the author manages to take some of the driest material know to man - topics like how to ramp up that compound interest (Oh Boy!) and funding a 401-K (Hotdiggity!) and make it both hilarious and powerful. Ramit Sethi delights in puncturing the hot air balloons we all fill with our self-defeating money scripts. His irreverent wit has a way of allowing us to laugh at ourselves as he makes fun of our behaviors with money.I read this book and $50K appeared in my mailbox (not related, but also not kidding)
Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2019
Much like when I read well-written nutrition books and somehow find the pounds peeling off, I found money making its way into my accounts just by reading Ramit's book. The book touts simplicity and automation, which offers a life raft to those adrift in a sea of confusing advice about market timing and paying an expert to help you "beat" the market. It's the financial equivalent of "Set it and forget it". He delves into more complex and time-intensive investing strategies as well, but while doing so he constantly reminds you that it's much easier, and probably more profitable, to stick your investments in an index fund and let it ride, just as Warren Buffett does in his will.
I read the first version of this book in 2009, soon after I had lost about $20K in student loans by investing it in the stock market (market timing unfortunately works in both directions ... for and against you). I took some of Ramit's advice to heart - automating much of my finances and opening several accounts in ING.com, an online bank that was eventually sold to a larger online bank, where many of my accounts still reside. Mint tells me that my net worth went from less less than $30K in 2009 to over $300K today. When offered an opportunity to join a private study group led by Ramit himself, and to read an early copy of the 2019 version of the book, I jumped at the chance. I realized from reading this 2nd Edition that although I had followed some of his ideas in the 1st Edition, I had neglected others. The most painful one being that I have spent way too much time in the last decade reviewing my finances and tinkering with investments. The target the book sets (after setting up everything to be automatic) is one hour per month to review finances; it's embarrassing to admit that in the previous 10 years, I have been closer to an hour per day than I have been to an hour per month. This new book strengthens my resolve to build more wealth by doing less.
The 2019 version is also unique from the 2009 version by the fact that the author is now a married man. Ramit is no longer just the brash renegade telling it like is, speaking truth to power, and backing down from no one. He is still all of that, but he also must now manage personal finances in relationship with his fiance and new wife. They reveal candid discussions and personal details of painful money conversations, surprising to no one in a committed relationship. What is surprising, and downright juicy, is that he pulls back the veil on the taboo subject of asking for and eventually arriving at a prenuptial agreement with his fiance. The bravery to bring those discussions out into the light, while exposing himself to potential ridicule and criticism, is commendable. It also provides a valuable resource for those seeking advice (and scripts) not only on discussing a prenup but also for other difficult money conversations.
In the first meeting of Ramit's private class to discuss the 2nd Edition, one of his first questions to the group was "What would you do if someone handed you a check for $10K?". He then proceeded to make good-natured fun of all of our grandiose puritanical responses about starting an orphanage, investing in stocks, paying off credit card debt, etc. His point was that most likely we would do the exact same thing with that $10K that you had been doing previously with your money. If you had spent too much and were in debt, you would probably continue to overspend and go into debt. It's not the money itself that changes your life, it is changing your attitudes towards, and your behavior with, money. Setting up systems and automating your finances is one very convenient way to change your behavior, because you intentionally set it only once, and then you forget about it and move on with your life, outside of the spreadsheet.
On the day before this book came out (May 13), I literally received a $50K check in the mail, totally unexpected. My aunt had come into a surprise inheritance from a distant relative and chose to share some of it with my family. Well-played universe, well-played indeed. Because of this book and the opportunity to discuss it with 150 like-minded individuals from all over the world and all kinds of financial backgrounds, I have full confidence that my family will do spectacular things with that money, but also that we will do it much more simply and automatically by following the systems laid out in this remarkable new book.Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
- CheloReviewed in Germany on January 29, 2025
5.0 out of 5 starsLove it
I came across his netflix series which made me buy his book. No regrets - Fauzia Hanum IkhwanReviewed in Japan on February 25, 2024
2.0 out of 5 starsIs it the second hand book ?
I’ve been waited for quite long since there was trouble during the shipping. However, I was quite happy since the seller gave me fast response.The media could not be loaded.
After I received the book, I am so disappointed with the quality of the book! It’s so bad , as you can see in the video! - RaulReviewed in Spain on February 26, 2024
5.0 out of 5 starsUna lectura que merece la pena.
El libro me ha parecido practico y útil, al principio al estar en inglés y que su primer tema trata el tema de las tarjetas de créditos y deudas me hizo pensar que tal vez tratase otra realidad social distinta a la mas común en España (ya que los estadounidenses tienen fama de abusar de las tarjetas de crédito y generar un monton de deuda), pero a la vez te anima a usar las tarjetas de crédito si esta ofrece buenas ventajas y siempre mantenerte en unos limites que a su vez hace que mejore tu puntuación crediticia (que en un futuro puede sernos beneficiosos a la hora de hipotecarnos).
Empieza desde el consejo intentar saldar la mayor parte de las deudas, emplear el dinero de forma practica pudiendo disfrutar de parte de el y termina dando consejos útiles para invertir y automatizar el proceso, pero por lo general la lectura es amena y practica, Ramit Sethi quizás emplee algún coloquialismo que dificulte la comprensión para los no nativos, pero el mensaje general resulta fácil de entender.
Se lo recomendaría a toda aquella persona que tiene poco control sobre sus ingresos y gastos y quiere poner un poco orden, empezar a invertir de forma sensata y sin calentarse mucho la cabeza. Como dice, el mejor momento para invertir y sacar mas partido a tu dinero es ahora. - Uncle JayReviewed in France on July 23, 2024
5.0 out of 5 starsJust perfect
Ramit is a lifesaver. This book is a gem. I specialy loved its ton. Must read book, for sure. You will learn so much stuff. - MichaelReviewed in India on October 18, 2023
5.0 out of 5 starsNew perspective for me
I was thinking about investing means picking stocks but now I have a clear idea about my finance...
Such a great book. Easy to understand and follow along.
