Regardless of your current financial status or annual income, you can become a millionaire by following a few simple steps. This is the straight-forward and well-supported premise of bestselling author and financial expert David Bach’s latest book, The Automatic Millionaire.
The key, according to Bach, is to set up a savings plan that eliminates the two elements that lead to financial chaos—the absence of both a budget and self-discipline. The accomplishment of this goal (and the overriding theme of this book) requires individuals to “pay themselves first” by automating their savings plans. This puts these contributions on the same level as other payments such as rent or utilities that are paid on a consistent basis. The most common form of automation is participation in a Company’s 401(k) plan so that contributions are made religiously each payperiod, eliminating bi-weekly decisions as to whether you have money to save.
In terms of where to find money to enhance your automated contributions, Bach explains the latte factor, which has become the modern expression for tracking every cent of your daily spending to find sources of money you can painlessly save. For example, by refraining from purchasing an expensive cup of coffee each morning or by cooking an additional meal each week, you can find additional money to fund your savings vehicles. Similarly, Bach strongly advises everyone to take advantage of any existing employer match since this is a part of a compensation package and can lead to a significant retirement cushion.
Bach does acknowledge that everyone might not be financially savvy and educates the reader about how to find an appropriate brokerage firm and investment vehicle. As part of this overall plan, he emphasizes the importance of an emergency fund to ensure the continuation of an automated savings plan in the event of an unexpected financial obstacle. He also touches on the financial dream of real estate which serves to whet your appetite for his other book exploring the benefits of being a homeowner and using real estate to continue to build your wealth. And, since carrying significant debt is a critical obstacle that may prevent people from automating their savings, Bach provides some insight on how to tackle your existing debt. The goal is to pay off your debt as soon as possible so you can focus on the goal of automation.
Automate your savings. Eliminate the need for a budget and self-discipline. Clear your path to financial security. Yes, both the plan and Bach’s explanation of it are that simple and clearly outlined this The Automatic Millionaire. This is a must read for anyone who wants to get on or continue on the path to a million dollars. See you there!