Several years ago, I became obsessed with personal finance. I am not exactly sure when it started, but I realized that in order to succeed in life, I needed to get my money in order. I realized that it was up to me to do it. Nobody else was going to come and fix it for me. I wasn’t going to win the lottery. I also realized that I knew next to nothing about how to win with money. We aren’t taught anything about personal finance in school, which is absolutely mind blowing.

I set out on a mission to learn about personal finance. Little did I know that I would embark on a two decade long journey on reading every personal finance book I could get my hands on. Some are better than others. What I’ve come to realize after doing the research is that winning with money is like winning at anything else in life. It requires self-discipline, good habits, some knowledge, consistency, momentum, delayed gratification and focus.

Below are a list of recommended books on personal finance and a brief overview on what they bring to the table.

I Will Teach You To Be Rich – by Ramit Sethi

Sethi keeps it fresh and entertaining, while tackling several different money topics. The main point of the book focuses on spending, which I like. Sethi recommends spending “lavishly” on things that you enjoy and love, while cutting out things completely that do not serve you. I could not agree more. If we could all just do this (in money and in life), we would be much more fulfilled. Stop spending money on things that do not bring you joy. Spend your money on things that you love, provide growth and that you enjoy.

The Richest Man in Babylon – by George S. Clason

A classic story set in ancient Babylon, that provides the reader with simple yet powerful techniques on how to win with money.

Think and Grow Rich – by Napoleon Hill

The 1937 classic that has withstood the test of time. Desire, belief, action and persistence are the keys to achievement, success and wealth, according to Hill. I couldn’t agree more.

Millionaire Teacher – by Andrew Hallam

Everything you should have been taught in school about personal finance.

The Millionaire Next Door – by Thomas J. Stanley

Changes your perspective on what you believe a millionaire to be. They aren’t greedy, lavish or flashy. They spend less than they make and invest the rest. They are ordinary regular people that have built solid habits with their money. They don’t act rich, therefore they are wealthy.

The Psychology of Money – by Morgan Housel

Winning with money is all about our thoughts and behaviours when it comes to dealing with our money.

Wealthing Like Rabbits – by Robert R. Brown

A hilariously entertaining take on personal finance. My personal favorite. It turns a fairly dry topic into a never boring adventure.

The Daily Mission – by Jason Peters

The crash course on personal finance. You are responsible for your money. Figure out where you are. Track your money to find out what you are spending it on. Spend on things that bring you joy. Cut out unnecessary spending. Save and invest the rest. Money is meant to enjoy life.

What are your favourite personal finance books?