A Breath of Fresh Air Amidst Get Rich Quick Books

What does it take to become a Millionaire? The Millionaire Next Door gives some surprising facts as to what it really takes to be a millionaire. It seems that the common conception of America's rich is really a misconception. This book redefines what most people think of when they hear the word Millionaire.

The book takes a look at the average American Millionaire. Where they live, what they drive, basically how they spend their money. Or don't spend their money. Most people judge a millionaire based on how much they spend. Commonly we mistakenly jump to the conclusion that when a person spends a lot of money, they have a lot of money to spend. The statistics in the book show the contrary. Most American Millionaires don't eat at expensive restaurants, they don't drive the newest most expensive cars, and they don't even live in million dollar homes. Most millionaires in America could not be picked out by their possessions or big spending habits.

So, what does the average millionaire do differently to attain such a status? They didn't inherit their fortunes. They didn't hit the jackpot. They're not professional athletes, and they don't even own billion dollar companies. These types of millionaires make up only a tiny percentage of the population. Really, as the book's title suggests, the average millionaires are all around us. We don't notice because they choose to save and invest their money instead of spending it. Their frugal lifestyle and desire to grow their net worth allows these average Americans to become millionaires.

The stories and statistics in the book give hope to those of us not making millions, but who hope to attain financial freedom. If you're looking for a get rich quick technique this isn't the book for you. There are no super investing secrets. No hot stock picks. You won't even find any multi-level marketing schemes. If you want to become a millionaire it takes careful planning and living within your means. The financial advice in the book comes from the examples of the millionaires interviewed. Their occupations vary widely. Their powerful yet simple examples demonstrate how possible it is to acquire wealth on any income.

The book also takes a look at another definition of wealthy. This part of the book defines being wealthy by asking the question, "How wealthy should I be?". If you're making a certain salary each year, then in 20 or 40 years you are expected to have a certain net worth. Why then are there a few who have over doubled the expected net worth for their salary? These people are very proficient at accumulating wealth. They are not high consumers, instead they are very effective in their saving and investing. They use their income to further grow their net worth, they do not use their income to parade their richness.

Reading the book raises many personal questions about your financial goals and life style. Obviously the lifestyle spotlighted in the book are portrayed as desirable, but maybe this life style isn't for you. Some may not see the value in having money and not using it. Maybe you don't find it appealing to sacrifice a high consuming lifestyle to attain financial freedom and grow your wealth. But if you are interested in establishing a solid financial portfolio and financial plan, this book is very inspirational. As I said you won't find any get rich quick ideas. However, you will read statistics and stories about people who have acquired significant net worths by their conservative hard working lifestyles. These examples are inspiring and encourage the reader to follow similar lifestyles in his or her efforts to grow wealth.