Personal Finance Books: Motivation to Tackle Your Financial Goals
Books can be fantastic resources as you're working on improving your finances. They're affordable, and if you're near a local library, they're free to check out.
Since there are so many, however, it can be a challenge to find one right for you.
Recently I had the pleasure of speaking with money coach and former librarian Kate Moody who shared some fantastic tips on how to find the best personal finance books for you.
I want to share some of my favorite books based on the goals you may be working on right now.
Pay Off Debts
One of the foundational steps with building up your finances is getting rid of unnecessary debts. It's a huge step that usually means overcoming some ingrained (and often incorrect) mindsets about money. These books can help you pivot.
The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey's classic is one of the best guides on creating momentum with your debt-free plan. Many inspiring stories from others who knocked out debt from different income levels also make it accessible.
Her Money Matters by Jen Hemphill
If you've tried multiple times to get out of debt but keep falling back, I think you'll enjoy Jen's book. As an accredited financial counselor, Jen has worked with others to adjust their mindset and set up a budget that fits their particular needs.
The Great Debt Dump by Toni Husbands
Interested in hearing from someone who's paid off over $100K of debt? You'll love Toni's book. She shares the process of getting out of debt through the lenses of community. Learn how you can use accountability to stay on track with your debt-free goals.
Investing
While investing can be an excellent way to build up your assets in the long run, many people shy away because it seems complicated and confusing. However, these books clearly explain the essentials you need to know to become an effective investor.
Broke Millennial Takes on Investing by Erin Lowry
I love how Erin breaks down the jargon in a relatable way so even new investors can start feeling confident. It's one book in a great series!
The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins
If you have no experience with investing and want an easy-to-manage portfolio, this is a fantastic book to make you feel more comfortable. Jim walks you through essential concepts along with examples.
Family Finances
When you're in a family, you're often juggling different ideas on how to handle the budget. These books can make those conversations less stressful and more productive.
Jumpstart Your Marriage and Your Money by Elle Martinez
Based on our personal experience and from interviewing other families on the Couple Money Podcast, Jumpstart focuses on the intersection of marriage and money. I share key habits and conversations to help couples get on the same page and tackle their goals in the book.
The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber
As parents, my husband and I want to guide our kids to thrive as adults, and money is a part of that. Besides teaching them to be financially savvy, we also want them to be thoughtful and generous with how they use it. The Opposite of Spoiled shares how you can start conversations with your kids even if they're in preschool.
Financial Independence and Freedom
Financial independence may seem like a buzzword splashed almost everywhere online, but it's much more holistic than just reaching your FI number as fast as possible.
These books capture the joy of gaining control of your finances and creating a life you love.
Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche
In this book, Tiffany explains how you can become financially whole by developing crucial habits that move you one step closer to your goals. It's full of actionable steps to manage your money much more effortless.
Frugalwoods by Liz Thames
This book hooked me in by sharing the process of how Liz and her family retired in their early thirties to a homestead. She's very open about the conversations and challenges they had along the way.
Find a Book That Inspires and Teaches You
Chances are several books are the right fit for you. As Kate mentioned during our discussion, it's a good idea to mix them up between those with financial expertise along with those inspiring stories of how they achieved their goals.
I hope this list helps you get started. If possible, grab a copy from your local library or buy your favorites from one of the wonderful bookstores around the area!