Colleen Symes

A father gave his daughter “The Wealthy Barber” for Christmas this year and included this motivational note. To my daughter, This book, The Wealthy Barber by Dave Chilton (yes, the guy from Dragons’ Den), is one of the most influential books I’ve ever read. I first read the original version 30 years ago, and it completely changed how I think about saving, investing, and managing money. So, what’s this book worth? 5 possible answers … a) $26.95 b) $1,000 c) $25,000 d) $1,000,000 e) $0 Here’s what those numbers mean: $26.95 – That’s what you’d pay for it in a store. $1,000 – That’s what it’s worth if you read it. Why? Because I’ll pay you $50 per chapter and an extra $500 when you finish the book. $25,000 – That’s what it could be worth if you take that $1,000 and invest it the way the book suggests. By the time you’re my age, that’s a realistic outcome. $1,000,000 – That’s what it could be worth if you follow its principles and start saving 15–20% of your earnings now. If you invest early and consistently, you will almost certainly become a millionaire. $0 – That’s what it’s worth if you don’t read it and apply it.