The Richest Man in Babylon

Our Main Take-Away:

Exploring the topics of thrift and the building of wealth, the author uses the story of the people of ancient Babylon to convey many messages about the importance of “leading of self”. Commitment to long-term goals and self-discipline are known to be cornerstones of success. By enticing the reader with the promise of very real insights into how wealth is acquired and grown, the message of a commitment to a set of core values, the daily demonstration of self-respect and respect for others, and the value of hard work are engagingly made. Seemingly simple stories that challenge the reader to examine their own personal assumptions about the handling of money and how they live their lives are a road map for personal success.

Reasons to Read:

Clason’s masterpiece on the building of personal wealth is so simple in its format that it is possible to miss the profound lessons that are contained regarding this proven path to personal success. Very concise and memorable phrases throughout the book provide easily remembered and time-tested pathways to “the many good things of life”. Carefully contained within this collection of parables are well crafted lessons that support the concept of “leading self” and being a positive example for those we lead and those with whom we work.

Overcoming misfortune, finding ways forward when the path seems overwhelming, and achieving goals which seem out of reach are the themes in which the author embeds his wisdom on how to acquire wealth. By placing these stories in an ancient setting the self-leadership lessons have the feeling of timeless wisdom. The book moves from story to story testing the reader to examine their own beliefs and assumptions about that which is obtained quickly and easily versus that which has lasting value because of the hard work and commitment that it took to attain. The importance of relationships in the business environment, the way interactions with peers takes place and knowing how trust is earned are woven several times throughout the text.

Leaders in the field of business and service often point to this book as one that was seminal in their life journey. The Richest Man in Babylon is a book that continues to provide great assistance and thought-provoking points of personal reflection even after multiple readings.

At Fired Up Culture we enjoy providing resources that help to guide our clients in their personal quest to improve and grow. We are also committed to helping our clients to first “lead self” very effectively and sustainably while in service to those they lead, their colleagues and families

Amazon Summary:

To bring your dreams and desires to fulfillment, you must be successful with money. This book shows you how to amass personal wealth by sharing the secrets of the ancient Babylonians, who were the first to discover the universal laws of prosperity.

Hailed as the greatest of all inspirational works on the subject of thrift, financial planning, and personal wealth, The Richest Man in Babylon is a timeless classic that holds the key to all you desire and everything you wish to accomplish. Through entertaining stories about the herdsmen, merchants, and tradesmen of ancient Babylon, George S. Clason provides concrete advice for creating, growing, and preserving wealth. Beloved by millions, this celebrated bestseller offers an understanding of, and a solution to, your personal financial problems. This is the book that holds the secrets to keeping your money and making more.

Financial principles covered in this book include:

1. Pay yourself first.
2. Don’t trust a bricklayer to buy jewels. (Don’t get caught up in other people’s excitement. Go seek the experts instead.)
3. Don’t put all your eggs in a single basket. (Diversify your portfolio.)
4. Control thy expenses. (Even the richest man has a time constraint on his life. Do what you enjoy, but don’t overdo it.)
5. Increase your ability to earn.

Keeping these core principles in mind will help you through economic hard times and put you on the road to riches.