The Total Money Makeover, A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness By Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey has gained popularity with his approach to getting out of debt, saving, and building wealth. With over 4 million copies sold over the past 25 years, his book The Total Money Makeover, tells his story and presents his principles on personal finances with a focus on:
- The concept of paying off debt and living debt-free
- His 7 Baby Steps to help get you there
- Retirement: when and how to plan
- Behaviors and intentionality with money
The information in this book presents a perspective that includes sacrificing some of what I want now to live the life I want in the future. The book includes forms and examples as well as personal stories and testimonials. With a focus on money behaviors, this book presents an understanding of the relationship with money, an understanding of money personalities, and how it affects my finances today. He then lays out an approach to change behaviors, set goals, and create a plan for long-term success.
The first step is a budget or a money plan. That means I need to understand where my money goes and reprioritize my spending and savings.
In the book, Dave shares The Total Money Makeover Motto, “If you live like no one else, later you can live like no one else.” This quote inspires me to make the sacrifices now that others are not willing to make, and later, I will be able to live a life that many do not even imagine.
I will say no to things I want now and follow my money plan.
“You have to reach the point that what people think is not your primary motivator.” If I feel pressured to spend money and go into debt to impress others or maintain a standard, I risk making choices that don’t align with my personal beliefs and values. I have started spending differently because my long-term goal is freedom from financial worries.
Dave states this truth: “… it is not easy, just worth it”. The harder I work to achieve my goals, the more valuable the result, and the less likely I am to fall back into old habits. Furthermore, sometimes easy is boring! Something inside me comes to life: I focus on my dreams and celebrate my successes!
After reading this book, I realized that I can turn off all the noise, chatter, and messages that come from social media and TV. By doing so, I prevent external influence from determining my spending choices.
I love that this book provides straightforward, proven steps to help us save for an emergency, pay down our debt, and plan for our retirement with a new perspective.
Best of all, it shows us how to change our behaviors so we can have a new relationship with money.
If you are ready to start a budget, I can help! Together, we can assess your current situation and create a money plan for your future.
CLICK HERE to schedule your Personal Financial Coaching session.
Lisa Atkinson
TFCU | Personal Financial Coach
latkinson@tucsonfcu.com
As a Personal Financial Coach, I do not provide legal or tax advice. Tucson Federal Credit Union does not guarantee that this service will achieve any particular objective or outcome. For any legal advice, please seek the advice of an attorney or tax professional.
