The idea seems so simple. How does it get so complicated? As you know, I am not shy to share my opinion, but in this area the best insight I’ve found is a tiny book called “The Richest Man in Babylon” so I’ll direct your attention there. Though small, “The Richest Man in Babylon” is full of great insights like,

“Ten percent of all you earn is yours to keep.”

“Advice is one thing that is freely given away, but watch that you only take what is worth having.”

“Our acts can be no wiser than our thoughts.”

“Will power is but the unflinching purpose to carry the task you set for yourself to fulfillment.”

And the ever popular:

“If you desire to help thy friend, do so in a way that will not bring thy friend’s burdens upon thyself.”

If only I’d read this book decades ago! I can assure you that my kids will know all about “The Richest Man in Babylon” and understand how to grow their own “money tree” long before they are teens. Money is a tool and, like any tool, it can be useful or dangerous depending on one’s ability to handle it properly. I cannot think of a better gift to give my children than an understanding of money – the thing that is central to modern society but that we all try to pretend is not important.