A number of years ago I read The World Is Flat and was enriched by author Thomas J Friedman’s perspective on the powerful changes that were taking place in the world at large.
His new book, Thank You for Being Late – an Optimist’s Guide to Thriving in the Age of Accelerations – is even more enlightening. This book is must reading for any ambitious youngster embarking on a career in our rapidly changing world. Frankly, it’s a revolutionary ballgame out there – beyond anything you can anticipate.
While Friedman’s view is not infallible – in a few hundred pages you will acquire greater perspective than you would ever imagine.
I recently read another excellent and entertaining book entitled The Richest Man in Babylon. The book contains many important lessons and suggestions on how to increase your wealth:
— Pay yourself first. Put 10% of your after-tax income into your personal account.
— Invest your money in safe and secure investments that will earn income and increase in value. Reinvest the money thus generated.
— Eliminate debt. Pay down all your debt with 20% of your after-tax income. Pay all your debtors proportionately from every paycheck.
— Own your own home. Family security is most important.
— Live on 70% of your after-tax income until all your debts are paid. It can be done with focus and minimal effort.
— Become a highly skilled and productive worker and employee. Increase your knowledge. Become the best.
— Invest only in businesses and/or individuals who are experts in their particular field.
Finally, I’ve recently been reading The Entrepreneur’s Handbook.
No, I’m not planning to start another business – but I was curious about how my executive modus-operandi over the years measured-up against the expert advice.
Turns out, not bad – but not perfect. I just wish I had this book forty years ago or even thirty years ago.
Well, it’s never too late to learn – especially if you’re in a small company or enterprise.
photo credit: Canadian Pacific Adorable Readers via photopin (license)
Recommended!
About the author, William Pauwels: William A. Pauwels, Sr. was born in Jackson Michigan to a Belgian, immigrant, entrepreneurial family. Bill is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and served in executive and/or leadership positions at Thomson Industries, Inc., Dow Corning, Loctite and Sherwin-Williams. He is currently CIO of Pauwels Private Investment Practice. He's been commenting on matters political/economic/philosophical since 1980. View all articles by William Pauwels
