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LES 4 LOIS DE LA PROSPERITE FINANCIERE
When Paul Smith can’t pay his bills, fate and a strange set of events brings him in contact with Mary Session, a retired IRS auditor with a $20 million bank account who takes Paul into her home and begins teaching him the four laws that made her debt-free and financially secure.
Dr. Stephen R. Covey says, “This profound audio deals with a topic that is absolutely critical to quality of life for everyone. No matter who you are or where you live, for most of your life you will deal with economic issues. And these issues not only affect the amount of money you have in your wallet, your bank account, or your 401k; they also affect your relationships, your lifestyle choices, your levels of stress, your ability to contribute, and your personal peace. I found The 4 Laws of Financial Prosperity to be truly unique and inspiring in several ways. Members of my own family have enjoyed and learned from this and I believe you will too.”
158 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 1996
104 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
December 25, 2007
This self-help book, cheesy as it is, was life changing for me. It basically got me to shake the cobwebs out of my head and start getting serious about money--something that was always this amorphous area of my life that I sort of just ignored.
There are two basic epiphanies I got from this book. The first was that the proper way to look at personal finances was not "spend vs. save" as I'd always thought (and was turned off by), but rather, "spend on things that appreciate vs. spend on things that depreciate". You are always spending 100% of what you make: spending, after all, just means allocating. It's how you allocate that matters.
The second epiphany is the power of compound interest. I had never really appreciated just how much damn money you can accumulate if you just start early enough. It also works in reverse: if you compound your repayment of debt, you'll get out of debt way, way faster than you ever thought possible.
The book convinced me to start tracking my expenses, and I must say that it is actually kind of fun. It's like playing Sim City or Starcraft, or any other resource management game.
Anyway: I recommend this book to everyone. It's short, an easy read, and will make you much less stressed out and more optimistic about your financial situation, no matter what that situation might be.
There are two basic epiphanies I got from this book. The first was that the proper way to look at personal finances was not "spend vs. save" as I'd always thought (and was turned off by), but rather, "spend on things that appreciate vs. spend on things that depreciate". You are always spending 100% of what you make: spending, after all, just means allocating. It's how you allocate that matters.
The second epiphany is the power of compound interest. I had never really appreciated just how much damn money you can accumulate if you just start early enough. It also works in reverse: if you compound your repayment of debt, you'll get out of debt way, way faster than you ever thought possible.
The book convinced me to start tracking my expenses, and I must say that it is actually kind of fun. It's like playing Sim City or Starcraft, or any other resource management game.
Anyway: I recommend this book to everyone. It's short, an easy read, and will make you much less stressed out and more optimistic about your financial situation, no matter what that situation might be.
September 29, 2017
After some figures were stated in the book my thoughts were: "It can't be that simple". I ran through the numbers again and again and several more times and it was true. Reaction like this only after one of the laws. Other laws were incredible too. My eye started to twitch after reading some facts and going through calculations.
Though the law that I liked the most, was the simplest one, it was... Not gonna spoil, but it was the first law.
Definitely recommend this book as a source for personal finance management principles.
Though the law that I liked the most, was the simplest one, it was... Not gonna spoil, but it was the first law.
Definitely recommend this book as a source for personal finance management principles.
August 7, 2009
Track, target, trim, train. If you can't measure it, you can't manage it. Straight forward advice given in the form of a story (it involves playing chess, so I think its extra cool). Basically, the first hurdle is to get your finances tracked and set goals. Next, you adapt your living habits so you can set better goals. Finally, you train yourself about other investments the have compounding interest, or real estate, or securities.
February 27, 2009
This is an easy read with tons of great advice. In this tumultuous economic world it is imperative that you read this book or others like it and read them NOW and apply the principles to your economic life. Practicing these principles and getting out of debt have made our lives so much happier and peaceful.
January 5, 2019
This book explores the steps towards being financially free. Track your daily expenses, Target financial realistic goals, Trim your living expenses, & Train yourself in the power of compound interest. Spending less than you get is key! A goal that is not written out, is just a wish. Pay yourself first. Get out of debt. Earn interest vs pay it are all covered in this gem of a book.
April 10, 2016
This would be an easy read for anyone that doesn't usually enjoy financial books since its in a story format. I found it very informative, inspiring and motivating. It motivated me to take my finances to the next level. I'd definitely recommend this book to everyone.
March 11, 2018
Excellent book for the general public! It’s simple and yet detailed enough to help any average joe learn to get out of debt, save money, and achieve financial freedom, so you can focus on the more important things in life.
December 23, 2008
In my opinion, this is one of the most practical, easiest to read money books out there.
April 16, 2019
Basic financial principles in an easily digestible format.
May 5, 2024
Very cheesy book about personal finance. But pretty decent information.
January 15, 2025
Yup that was a finance book. It was good tho
June 19, 2018
Review for the book “The 4 laws of financial prosperity” by Blaine Harris.
Aim of the book: to show that everyone who gets average salary can have a debt-free life and provide himself with prosper quality of life to the age of a retirement, and be able to retire when he/she choose to instead of when he/she have to.
Main idea: you have to live on less than you earn - it doesn’t mean to stop spending but just spend more wisely on assets that generate wealth. There are 4 laws to accomplish that: 1. Tracking your finance - you’ve got to measure it before manage it; 2. Targeting - goals must answer the questions why, how much and when; goals must be written! goals not written are wishes. 3. Trimming - to cut “necessary expenses” which always strive for be equal our income. 4. Training - success happens when preparation meets opportunity, if you don’t prepare you will not be able to seize those great financial opportunities that appear every day.
Credentials: Stephen Covey made a foreword for this book, which starts with Confucius’s words: “When property comes, do not use all of it” and continues with Albert Einstein’s statement: “One of the most powerful forces in the universe was compound interest”, - the author pays a big prize to this phenomenon in his book. Beside of that, my personal experience proves applicability of this approach in our conditions.
Application area: it is the must have been read book for everyone who still don’t have personal finance goals and plans of accumulation sufficient assets to take care of himself regardless of salary.
Aim of the book: to show that everyone who gets average salary can have a debt-free life and provide himself with prosper quality of life to the age of a retirement, and be able to retire when he/she choose to instead of when he/she have to.
Main idea: you have to live on less than you earn - it doesn’t mean to stop spending but just spend more wisely on assets that generate wealth. There are 4 laws to accomplish that: 1. Tracking your finance - you’ve got to measure it before manage it; 2. Targeting - goals must answer the questions why, how much and when; goals must be written! goals not written are wishes. 3. Trimming - to cut “necessary expenses” which always strive for be equal our income. 4. Training - success happens when preparation meets opportunity, if you don’t prepare you will not be able to seize those great financial opportunities that appear every day.
Credentials: Stephen Covey made a foreword for this book, which starts with Confucius’s words: “When property comes, do not use all of it” and continues with Albert Einstein’s statement: “One of the most powerful forces in the universe was compound interest”, - the author pays a big prize to this phenomenon in his book. Beside of that, my personal experience proves applicability of this approach in our conditions.
Application area: it is the must have been read book for everyone who still don’t have personal finance goals and plans of accumulation sufficient assets to take care of himself regardless of salary.
August 1, 2023
The 4 Laws of Financial Prosperity" may not deliver groundbreaking insights, but it has some redeeming qualities that could appeal to a broad audience. Its simplicity and straightforward language make it accessible to those new to personal finance, providing a gentle introduction to core principles like saving, investing, and debt management.
While the book's advice may seem generic, it serves as a useful reminder of fundamental financial practices that are crucial for building a solid financial foundation. The repetitive approach emphasizes their importance, motivating readers to take a proactive approach to their financial planning.
For beginners seeking basic financial knowledge, this book could be a starting point to understand money management. However, it should be complemented with more comprehensive resources for a well-rounded financial education.
Although the book lacks depth and originality, its ease of understanding and encouragement to take control of one's financial future are commendable aspects. It may serve as a catalyst for individuals to begin thinking about their financial goals and aspirations. Ultimately, while "The 4 Laws of Financial Prosperity" may not be revolutionary, it can still offer value to those seeking an approachable entry point into the world of personal finance.
While the book's advice may seem generic, it serves as a useful reminder of fundamental financial practices that are crucial for building a solid financial foundation. The repetitive approach emphasizes their importance, motivating readers to take a proactive approach to their financial planning.
For beginners seeking basic financial knowledge, this book could be a starting point to understand money management. However, it should be complemented with more comprehensive resources for a well-rounded financial education.
Although the book lacks depth and originality, its ease of understanding and encouragement to take control of one's financial future are commendable aspects. It may serve as a catalyst for individuals to begin thinking about their financial goals and aspirations. Ultimately, while "The 4 Laws of Financial Prosperity" may not be revolutionary, it can still offer value to those seeking an approachable entry point into the world of personal finance.
December 17, 2007
Good Book. Got me motivated to incorporate the four laws into my financial life. Track, Target, Trim, Train. The thing that I got most out of this book is that I don’t have to stop spending…just spend differently…spend on things that appreciate, not depreciate. Also, this quote about becoming more knowledgeable about investing and accumulating wealth. “Success happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
January 28, 2025
Simple concepts, easy to understand and once I executed the first law (which I’ve been intending to do for years) it was life changing. The 4 laws are described through the following the financial enlightenment of one man. Small book that was recommended to me and has turned out financial health around for my family. Definitely recommend.
July 8, 2008
I would recommend this to every couple. It has some great guidelines in here. My husband and I have read it twice and although we don't have any major debt, the concepts in here help establish a great financial foundation. Also - it's a quick read - only just over 100 pages.
February 5, 2009
Really good book. I totally recommend this if you're looking for away to be a wise spender, save money and get out of debt. This book shows you can get out of debt on any budget by following for simple, yet smart laws.
September 10, 2024
This book makes it all sound so simple. I have never understood money which led me to hate it (because of what some people do to get and keep it). But this book distilled it down and made it very easy to understand even for a beginner like me. Highly recommend
November 12, 2024
My daughter was required to read this for work and passed it along to me to read. It has some basic and essential money tips that every high schooler and person should understand. Track, target, trim, train!
January 28, 2008
This book started my financial education. A great book for beginners or anyone looking for a quick read on how to win with your finances.
December 5, 2019
Simple and effective... now it is your time to act... if you wanna take a further step controlling your finances, I recommend you reading this book
July 20, 2023
After reading this book every single cent I've spent I've tracked with a money tracker app. There is a lot more to finances than this book, but it's a great start.
September 12, 2024
Definitely good tips for people who don’t have good money habits! If you are already making progress, there’s not much new here to learn.
December 27, 2024
Tracking, Targeting, Trimming & Training is a vital financial tool to financial independence
March 15, 2020
Me tomó tres also terminar de leer este libro, no por su longitud, sino porque después de llegar a la tercera ley, quise enfocarme en ponerlas en práctica antes de leer sobre la cuarta.
Tres años más tarde. Más o menos le hago caso. Al menos siempre está en mi cabeza.
Las 4 leyes merecen 5 estrellas y es un libro que recomiendo a todos los que el dinero les sea pesado.
Pero bajó dos estrellas por lo siguiente:
Quito una por que los autores son bastante maniqueístas. Lo que dicen tiene todo de razón y valor, pero por alguna extraña razón que desconozco, les gusta manipular, exagerar números y hacer cálculos erróneos con datos irreales en lugar de plantear las cosas como son. Supongo que el plan es sorprender y convencer a la gente. Pero soy de la idea que todo el mundo es inteligente y capaz de entender las cosas sin necesidad de manipulación.
La segunda estrella se la quito porque la historia es un poco burda y horriblemente contada. Es agotador como tardan páginas y páginas en transmitir un concepto que lo puedes hacer en un párrafo. Eso no sería grave (por algo soy amante de los románticos), si estuviera bien escrito. Pero es agotador y en varias ocasiones me encontré leyendo el libro en diagonal.
Igualmente. Más allá de la calidad cuestionable del libro, el concepto me parece válido y potente. Digno de que todos sepan de él.
Tres años más tarde. Más o menos le hago caso. Al menos siempre está en mi cabeza.
Las 4 leyes merecen 5 estrellas y es un libro que recomiendo a todos los que el dinero les sea pesado.
Pero bajó dos estrellas por lo siguiente:
Quito una por que los autores son bastante maniqueístas. Lo que dicen tiene todo de razón y valor, pero por alguna extraña razón que desconozco, les gusta manipular, exagerar números y hacer cálculos erróneos con datos irreales en lugar de plantear las cosas como son. Supongo que el plan es sorprender y convencer a la gente. Pero soy de la idea que todo el mundo es inteligente y capaz de entender las cosas sin necesidad de manipulación.
La segunda estrella se la quito porque la historia es un poco burda y horriblemente contada. Es agotador como tardan páginas y páginas en transmitir un concepto que lo puedes hacer en un párrafo. Eso no sería grave (por algo soy amante de los románticos), si estuviera bien escrito. Pero es agotador y en varias ocasiones me encontré leyendo el libro en diagonal.
Igualmente. Más allá de la calidad cuestionable del libro, el concepto me parece válido y potente. Digno de que todos sepan de él.
June 4, 2021
Money will follow you forever. Learning to handle something that will be in your hands and control is wise and beneficial. I love to read financial books every now and then to keep up with the times and keep the information fresh in my mind.
There is valuable information in this book. The way that information is put out comes through a short little story of a man struggling and meeting a woman who has made it. Basically, in all, she mentors him to handle his money and he grows as a person. The whole progress is measures through a chess game, where finally at the end the man protagonist defeats the old woman with a good attitude.
The four laws are highlighted evenly through the books too. There is not one that takes more importance over the other.
I recommend the book for those starting out with money management. Good luck
There is valuable information in this book. The way that information is put out comes through a short little story of a man struggling and meeting a woman who has made it. Basically, in all, she mentors him to handle his money and he grows as a person. The whole progress is measures through a chess game, where finally at the end the man protagonist defeats the old woman with a good attitude.
The four laws are highlighted evenly through the books too. There is not one that takes more importance over the other.
I recommend the book for those starting out with money management. Good luck
December 1, 2025
In this book it focuses on keeping track of your money and not going into debt. It gives some examples of what people should do in certain situations with the main thing being to not go into debt.
I think this book is just about as interesting as a book about finance can be. The book gave some good stories to keep me hooked all the way through. It also did a pretty good job of teaching me to keep my money under control and not go in debt. Which is really bad especially with some of the interest rates. The four laws that are mentioned in the book's title are: Tracking, Targeting, Trimming, and Training. Briefly this book gives advice on how you can keep your money and not impulsively spend all the time so you avoid debt and can afford to live.
I think this book is just about as interesting as a book about finance can be. The book gave some good stories to keep me hooked all the way through. It also did a pretty good job of teaching me to keep my money under control and not go in debt. Which is really bad especially with some of the interest rates. The four laws that are mentioned in the book's title are: Tracking, Targeting, Trimming, and Training. Briefly this book gives advice on how you can keep your money and not impulsively spend all the time so you avoid debt and can afford to live.
August 10, 2020
You know, I actually enjoyed this book. Other books on finances and money have just been very, "Oh just pull out money from those stocks you forgot about," which is annoying to say the least. Not everyone has stocks just sitting around that were gifted to them and this assumption is disheartening.
Harris gets his finances in order is completely doable way, literally starting with him and his wife's income and lots of budgeting. It was simple and I definitely recommend reading this book.
Harris gets his finances in order is completely doable way, literally starting with him and his wife's income and lots of budgeting. It was simple and I definitely recommend reading this book.
March 20, 2022
Super easy read, and for someone who really abhors getting involved with finances, this made things really easy to digest. I learned some simple, yet effective rules for finance, and feel more confident overall. It was a little cheesy like some other reviews say, but it still makes sense, and if you can stomach all the cheese, you get what they're trying to say. Despite any weird, cheesy analogies, the rules are still true and good.
September 9, 2025
It was a little cheesy but it was super important information to save rather to spend, to live on 85-90% of your income. To make goals, track your daily spend, eliminate the things you don’t need that your spending money one and invest. It was a cute little story of a guy and his family borderline bankrupt goes to this lady that is loaded with money and asks her for a loan pretty much and teaches him all the ways to save money and to be aware of his spending habits
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews