One of the things that I use to keep myself focused in my journey to debt freedom is books! I use Audiobooks usually because I can “read” these while commuting, working, washing the dishes and folding the laundry. Audible is my favorite source for audio books.
Here are my favorites:
The Total Money Makeover, Audiobook, by Dave Ramsey (2003) I love it because it’s read by Dave Ramsey himself. He has a passion for what he does and a lot of energy in his voice. I’ve listened to it several times and it’s what I turn on if I don’t know what to listen to. I no longer learn something new every time I listen to it—instead, I use it as an energy boost to stay focused. For me, having a “voice” rather than reading the book by myself is like having someone else cheering me on. (Try it, it might work for you too!)
Outliers, Audiobook by Malcolm Gladwell (2008). Also, read by the author, I like all of Gladwell’s books. His unique perspective inspires me to look at all of my circumstances through another lens. The text itself isn’t precisely related to getting out of debt, but success measurement. To me, being out of debt is a measure of success in my own life, so it applies in a less direct way.
Guerrilla Marketing by Jay Conrad Levinson (2009). This one is about marketing in unorthodox or affordable ways. If you have a “side hustle” program going on (as many of us do) this might inspire you to find another way of finding clients or reaching out to sell your product or service.
No More Mondays by Dan Miller (2008). This is a great book about finding/pursuing your passion. I do hope that is one of your post-debt goals. It helps me focus on the “after.”
The Go-Giver by John Burke and John David Mann (2008). This is another great book about change in perspective and attitude. It’s a parable, so easy to listen to, not a bunch of numbers and a good refresher on attitude. (Or maybe I should say it is “attitude refreshing.”)
The Four-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss (2007). I’m personally a big fan of old-fashioned, holistic and neighborhood-based business (I’m a hippie at heart), but what I love about four-hour-workweek is what the case study individuals did once they met their business/income goals. They took their kids sailing around the planet, they pursued athletic goals and other personal goals. I love the “life is more than work” perspective, and use the case-studies as inspiration for what I might want to do when I’m debt free.
Blogs, blogs blogs! I get many personal finance and debt-reduction blogs in my Google Reader, but seldom check it. My very favorite blogs are delivered to Facebook and my email where I’m more likely to read them. Whenever I have a moment of “hmm… I could use some inspiration” I can usually find some within moments on my mobile phone. Surf around for some of the best of the best. I especially enjoy those with a humorous perspective and a youthful voice (Debtkid, PunchDebt, Man vs. Debt, and Budgets are Sexy).
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