Reset Book Review
A personal finance journey exploring more than just money
I picked to read this book for the very low marker that it was a FIRE story from a UK writer. I didn't read the blurb that much, other than to confirm it was a UK writer.
"Reset" by David Sawyer is a personal finance book that explores the author's journey to financial freedom and a more fulfilling life. The book delves into the concept of resetting one's approach to money, focusing on values and lifestyle choices that lead to greater happiness.
Sawyer begins by sharing his personal journey from a high-stress corporate job to a life of financial freedom. He introduces the concept of "F.U. Money," which is the amount of money that allows an individual to live life on their terms without being dependent on a traditional job. The author argues that achieving F.U. Money is not about amassing vast wealth but rather having enough to cover essential expenses and pursue meaningful activities.
One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on questioning societal norms and challenging the traditional narrative of the 9-to-5 grind. Sawyer advocates for a more deliberate approach to life, encouraging readers to reassess their values and priorities. He challenges the belief that success is solely defined by climbing the corporate ladder and accumulating material possessions.
If you want more than just financial advice, and how it intertwines with the rest of life, this is the book for you.
First Impressions
Upon starting "Reset, How to Restart Your Life and Get F.U. Money" readers are greeted with a refreshing perspective on money, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial goals with personal values. Sawyer's engaging writing style and personal anecdotes create an accessible entry point for readers, making financial concepts more relatable.
Overview: The book takes readers through the author's own experiences, sharing insights gained from adopting a more intentional and mindful approach to spending, saving, and investing. Sawyer introduces the concept of the "financial fast" and advocates for a holistic reevaluation of lifestyle choices to achieve financial independence.
Key Features
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Mindful Spending: The book emphasizes the significance of mindful spending, encouraging readers to align their expenditures with their values and priorities.
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Financial Fast: Sawyer introduces the concept of a "financial fast," a period of intentional and disciplined spending reduction to reset one's financial habits.
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Investing for Happiness: Beyond traditional financial advice, "Reset" explores investing in experiences and personal development as key components of a fulfilling life.
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The book provides practical steps and strategies for readers to take control of their financial destinies. Sawyer introduces the concept of "RESET," an acronym that stands for Realistic, Exponential, Systematic, Effortless, and Time-efficient. These principles serve as a framework for achieving financial independence by making smart investment decisions, leveraging time and compounding, and minimizing unnecessary effort.
Sawyer emphasizes the importance of building multiple income streams and diversifying investments. He delves into the power of compound interest and the impact of small, consistent actions over time. The author's approach is not about getting rich quickly but rather making informed choices that lead to long-term financial security.
There was also a large part of the book which looked at minimalism. I can understand how this links with spending and readjusting your focus away from materialist goods, but this took up such a large part of the book it seemed a little excessive.
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What I Learnt
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Through Sawyer's narrative, readers gain insights into practical strategies for achieving financial freedom while prioritizing personal happiness.
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The book challenges conventional notions of wealth and success, providing a roadmap for individuals seeking a more purposeful relationship with money.
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Furthermore, "RESET" encourages readers to reevaluate their relationship with money and understand the true cost of their lifestyle choices. Sawyer advocates for conscious spending, distinguishing between essential and discretionary expenses. By adopting a frugal mindset, readers can allocate resources more efficiently toward their financial goals.
The book is accessible and engaging, with Sawyer incorporating anecdotes, humour, and real-life examples to illustrate his points. His writing style is conversational, making complex financial concepts more digestible for a broad audience. Additionally, the author addresses common fears and misconceptions about financial independence, providing reassurance and practical solutions.
Conclusion
"Reset" serves as a motivational and informative guide for those looking to break free from conventional financial norms. With a blend of personal anecdotes and actionable advice, David Sawyer encourages readers to rethink their relationship with money, inspiring a journey towards financial independence and a more meaningful life. This book is a thought-provoking and accessible guide for individuals seeking financial independence and a more fulfilling life. With its practical advice, engaging style, and challenging of societal norms, the book serves as an inspiring resource for those looking to take control of their financial destinies and pursue a life aligned with their values.
While "RESET" offers valuable insights, some readers may find the author's perspective on certain topics to be overly optimistic or subjective. Financial independence is a nuanced and individualized journey, and not everyone may resonate with Sawyer's specific approach. Additionally, the book might benefit from more comprehensive coverage of potential challenges and pitfalls that readers may encounter along the way. It gets a 3.5/5 for me here, although I think I am being favourable because it was British.
Head over to Amazon UK for the latest offers and to purchase this book.
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