Rich Dad Poor Dad, Robert Kiyosaki

owen borrel
16 min readJun 19, 2024

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When it comes to personal finance and building wealth, there’s a classic that everyone talks about. It’s “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert T. Kiyosaki. This book hit the shelves in 1997 and has since been a top choice, not just in America but around the globe. It’s sold more than 32 million copies and has been translated into many languages.

It tells the story of Kiyosaki’s childhood with two fathers who had very different views on money. One, his “poor dad,” focused on getting a good job and doing well in school. The other, his “rich dad,” taught him the value of starting businesses, investing, and understanding how money works.

“Rich Dad Poor Dad” shakes up the idea that a high salary is all you need to be financially successful. Kiyosaki shows us a new way. He says we should find ways to use our money to make more money. This involves smart investing and creating more than one source of income. The goal is to stop working just for money but to get our money to start working for us.

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Key Takeaways

  • Rich Dad Poor Dad is the #1 personal finance book of all time, selling over 32 million copies globally.
  • The book highlights the importance of financial education and challenges the idea that a high income is necessary to become rich.
  • Kiyosaki’s story contrasts the financial philosophies of his “poor dad” and “rich dad,” emphasizing the value of entrepreneurship, investing, and asset-based wealth building.
  • The book covers topics such as the definition of assets and liabilities, the role of real estate and business ownership in wealth creation, and the need for parents to educate their children about money.
  • Rich Dad Poor Dad is known for its thought-provoking discussions and ability to challenge conventional financial beliefs.

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Essence of “Rich Dad Poor Dad”

“Rich Dad Poor Dad” contrasts the financial teachings of two dads. Robert Kiyosaki’s “poor dad” focused on job safety and living frugally. In contrast, his “rich dad” emphasized building assets, smart investing, and financial education. Kiyosaki highlights the importance of knowing the difference between assets and liabilities, starting your own business, and achieving financial freedom.

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Contrasting Financial Philosophies

This book explores the differing views of Kiyosaki’s dads. His “poor dad” believed in safe jobs and living modestly. But his “rich dad” showed him the value of creating assets, making careful financial decisions, and understanding how money works3. These different viewpoints are key to understanding how successful people manage their finances vs. those who struggle4.

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Importance of Financial Education

The book stresses the significance of learning about money. Kiyosaki’s “rich dad” suggests always improving your financial knowledge. This includes learning about managing money, investing, and starting your own business4. Listening to advice like his is crucial for breaking away from traditional work thinking. It empowers you to shape a better financial future3.

“The rich focus on their asset columns while everyone else focuses on their income statements.”

One key point: wealthy people focus on growing assets, not just their paychecks. The book explains that unlike many middle-class and poor people, the rich aim to increase their assets. Doing so leads to passive income and long-term wealth4.

Key Takeaways from “Rich Dad Poor Dad” Break free from the traditional mindset of working for a paycheck and focus on creating passive income streams through investments and entrepreneurship. Differentiate between income-generating assets and liabilities, prioritizing the acquisition of assets. Continuously invest in financial education covering money management, investing, and entrepreneurship. Utilize other people’s resources to achieve financial goals and maximize returns. Embrace calculated risks and view failures as opportunities for growth leading to financial success.

Many have found the lessons in “Rich Dad Poor Dad” life-changing. They have inspired better personal finance and smarter wealth building43.

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Robert Kiyosaki’s Journey

Robert Kiyosaki’s life is a great example of how self-improvement, seeking advice, and thinking like an entrepreneur can change your life5. He was born in Hawaii into a family from Japan. His early years were influenced by his two dads’ financial views, “poor dad” and “rich dad.”6 These different teachings would shape his future. They inspired his famous book, “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” which has helped millions worldwide7.

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Two Influential Fathers

Kiyosaki’s “poor dad” worked in education and valued traditional success. In contrast, his “rich dad” was a business owner who believed in real-world lessons over grades6. The teachings of his “rich dad” gave him insights into money and financial freedom. It changed how he understood wealth and success.

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Lessons from the “Rich Dad”

“Rich Dad Poor Dad” lays out six key teachings from the “rich dad.” These include knowing money well, running your own business, and the value of learning through experience5. Kiyosaki highlights the benefit of owning assets, creating income that doesn’t need your daily work, and thinking like an entrepreneur for financial liberty6.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Y7RUBu-38LE

Kiyosaki’s insights and his “rich dad’s” wisdom have greatly influenced how we think about money. They have encouraged many to take charge of their wealth and look for business opportunities7. His clear advice and inspiring stories make the path to financial independence clearer. They urge people to pursue personal growth and learn from successful mentors123.

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The Cash Flow Quadrant

Robert Kiyosaki’s book, “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” introduced the Cash Flow Quadrant. This system puts people into four groups: Employees (E), Self-Employed (S), Business Owners (B), and Investors (I)8. Kiyosaki explains how each group works and what they should aim for. He says moving from E and S to B and I can lead to financial freedom .

In the E quadrant, people work for a salary and benefits8. Most jobs fall into this category. The S quadrant includes those who work for themselves. They might be dentists, brokers, or restaurant owners. Although they control their work, their income depends on their direct effort8.

The B quadrant is for business owners. They build systems and have others run their companies8. Notable figures like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos are in this quadrant. Then, there’s the I quadrant, for investors. Investors make money from their assets. They often support businesses from the B quadrant, creating more income for everyone8.

Employed and self-employed people usually pay higher taxes. In contrast, business owners and investors get tax benefits9. They can even make money without being there every day. This shows why it’s vital to move to the B and I side of the Cash Flow Quadrant.

Kiyosaki says the secret to getting rich is by choosing the B and I side10. Only 10% of people are on this side, where their money comes from businesses or investments they control10. By thinking like an entrepreneur and creating sources of passive income, anyone can escape the limitations of the E and S side.

The Cash Flow Quadrant offers a different view on jobs and money. Knowing about each quadrant helps people make smart choices. This can lead to a better, richer, and more independent life.

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Building Wealth through Assets

Forget relying just on a good job for wealth. Robert Kiyosaki suggests making money through assets is the way to go11. This means putting your money in things like real estate and starting your own businesses11.

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Real Estate and Business Investments

Kiyosaki says financial freedom comes from smart investments and owning businesses11. Real estate is seen as a great way to grow your wealth12. In the US, home prices have gone up a lot since 1987 and even more since the 2008 financial crisis12. Kiyosaki also points out a different kind of real estate investment, private equity funds. They offer different levels of risk, from safe to more daring12.

Kiyosaki believes starting your own business helps you get rich11. He says 40% of the wealthiest invest in businesses, but only 2.5% of the poorest do11. Owning a business can lead to owning assets and income that doesn’t need you to work all the time.

“The key to financial freedom and great wealth is a person’s ability to convert earned income into passive income and/or portfolio income.”
- Robert Kiyosaki

Working on your asset collection can lead to real financial independence and safety11. This suggests sitting back and just depending on a job isn’t the best plan for long-term wealth1112. Kiyosaki says focusing on assets is a smarter way.

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Overcoming Limiting Beliefs about Money

In “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” Robert Kiyosaki challenges us to look at our beliefs about money. He says having a positive mindset is key. It’s also important to keep learning about financial education and wealth creation. By ditching beliefs that hold us back, we can achieve financial success.

Many folks have bad ideas about money that stop them from getting ahead. A study shows people find it easier to talk about tough topics than money13. This makes wanting wealth feel bad and leads to thinking there’s not enough to go around, not more like there’s plenty13.

Some think money is hard to get, that you must save a lot, or that wanting it is wrong. They may also set small money goals. These beliefs make us our own worst enemies. They cause fear, and we lose faith, so we don’t make as much as we could14.

It’s vital to get past these bad ideas to become financially successful. Looking at how we dealt with money growing up can help. This way, we can spot our negative beliefs about money14. Then, we can work on changing these thoughts to ones that support us14.

Shinobu Hindert, with experience managing $350 million, knows the drill. She’s guided many to transform their financial lives, from barely managing to great wealth14. The trick is being aware of our actions and patient as we tackle these money myths14.

Diving into and beating common worries about money helps. Doing this gives us a healthier view on finances. It also lets us reach our full earning potential15. By tackling our money fears, we can make much more than we ever thought, free from mental and emotional barriers14.

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business

In “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” Robert Kiyosaki says running a business can lead to wealth. He advises people to own or start businesses. This is better than depending only on jobs16. Creating small businesses helps both the economy and the owners.

Kiyosaki introduces the “Cash Flow Quadrant.” It shows how people make money: working for others, working for themselves, owning a business, or investing. To truly gain financial freedom, he suggests moving to the business owner or investor roles1617.

This advice is popular among those who want to be their own boss. It calls for thinking differently and taking smart business risks. That way, they can earn money without direct, everyday effort, through investments or owning businesses and property.

The B2B world attracts many small business owners161718. Business deals in this area are often big, follow clear patterns, and may lead to long-term partnerships. The rise of B2B online trade means even small companies can easily connect with and sell to others.

Kiyosaki really wants to teach about money and how to make more of it. He encourages having an entrepreneur’s spirit and looking into different business chances. His goal is to support people in gaining financial independence and building money for future generations161718.

Not everyone agrees with Kiyosaki. However, many have found his ideas about entrepreneurship and business inspiring. They push people to go after their dreams of creating wealth161718.

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Criticism and Controversies

Robert Kiyosaki’s “Rich Dad Poor Dad” has changed many people’s views on money. But, it has also been heavily criticized and brought up in controversies19. Some say Kiyosaki doesn’t have his facts straight, and his stories and advice can sound too vague. This has made some people doubt if his “rich dad” was even real and question the advice in the book.

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Factual Inaccuracies and Vague Claims

The book, “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” has faced criticism for not offering enough proof. Some readers and experts doubt the story about Kiyosaki’s wealthy “rich dad” because it can’t be proven19. They also think Kiyosaki’s advice is too open to personal interpretation. This makes it hard for people to clearly understand and use his ideas.

Year Controversy Impact 2002 The Canadian Booksellers Association and Indigo Books and Music sought a court ruling regarding Amazon’s partnership with Canada Post as an attempt to circumvent Canadian law20. This legal dispute highlighted the ongoing tensions between Amazon and traditional booksellers, as the e-commerce giant’s business model was seen as a threat to the established book industry20. 2017 Amazon Canada faced fines of $1 million and $100,000 in costs for deceptive marketing practices by the Canadian Competition Bureau20. This legal action underscored the importance of transparency and fair practices in the e-commerce industry, as regulators sought to protect consumer rights20. 2021 Lawsuits were filed alleging that Amazon colluded with publishers to keep e-book prices artificially high20. The legal challenges highlighted concerns about Amazon’s dominance in the e-book market and the potential for anti-competitive practices that could harm consumers20.

Because of these issues, some readers and finance experts warn others to be careful with Kiyosaki’s advice. They remind people about the importance of checking facts and consulting with real financial experts19.

“While ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’ has undoubtedly inspired many to take control of their financial futures, the lack of transparency and verifiable evidence in the book has led to warranted skepticism from some in the financial community.”

But, even with the criticism, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” is still a popular and impactful book about money. It tells people to think differently about finances and strive for a unique path to prosperity19. It’s always wise to approach financial advice critically and get feedback from professionals1920.

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Publishing Success and Impact

Rich Dad Poor Dad faced critics but became a huge success21. It started as a self-published book in 1997. A major publisher later picked it up. Now it is a New York Times bestseller, in 51 languages, and sold in 109 countries21.

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Bestseller Status and Global Reach

The written word is key for credibility and thought leadership today21. This success made Robert Kiyosaki a top voice in personal finance. Authors earn by leading readers to their services like coaching21.

Self-publishing is booming, growing 264% in 5 years22. Amazon Kindle Direct helps with big royalties. It’s great for creating your brand as an expert22.

Knowing your audience shapes what you write21. Connecting with influencers and attending conferences boosts your book. Discounts can also help sell more books21.

Yet, some authors fail by writing for themselves, skipping editing, and weak marketing21. Keep promoting after your book is out for long-term success. Having a solid plan, team, and launch strategy is crucial21.

Self-publishing offers authors real-time sales data22. It opens doors to workshops and consulting. Engaging through social media and newsletters is key22.

The future may feature AI tools for editing and audiobooks2221. It’s exciting to see where self-publishing will go next22.

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The Power of Financial Literacy

“Rich Dad Poor Dad” highlights that knowing money matters a lot. It’s key to being free financially and making wealth that lasts23. Robert Kiyosaki makes a solid point about controlling our financial future. To do this, we need to look for chances, learn from errors, and keep learning about handling money wisely and investing smartly.

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Taking Control of Your Financial Destiny

Kiyosaki shows us that understanding finances is not just for a few special people. Anyone can get this crucial skill by putting in time and effort23. However, fewer Americans are doing well on simple financial knowledge tests since 2009. This trend means we really need to focus more on teaching finance in our communities.

Learning about finances helps open doors to being free with money and creating wealth. Jobs needing financial skills are going up. By 2028, jobs in this area are expected to grow by 16%, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This shows how valuable being financially smart is, both at work and in daily life.

Also, knowing about money can help in any business and make you better at making decisions, negotiating, and leading. It’s a strong tool for controlling how we do with money, making smart choices, and building a safe tomorrow.

“The single biggest difference between financial success and financial failure is how well you understand money.”
- Robert Kiyosaki, author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad”

Kiyosaki’s words urge us to put finance first and shape our own financial future. This approach can lead anyone to a future where they are financially free, make wealth, and control their financial path.

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Rich Dad Poor Dad Legacy

“Rich Dad Poor Dad,” written by Robert Kiyosaki, changed how we think about money. It has inspired many to aim for financial freedom24. The book shows us that working smarter, not harder, is key to wealth. It tells us to let our money work for us24. Kiyosaki teaches that we should own things that bring in money, not just work at a job24.

This book came out in 1997 and quickly became famous worldwide25. It contrasts Kiyosaki’s real dad’s thinking with that of his friend’s dad. Kiyosaki uses this to stress how important it is to understand money and how to make it grow25.

“Rich Dad Poor Dad” also talks about what’s good to have (assets) and what’s not (liabilities)24. Kiyosaki wants us to focus on ways to earn money without always working for it. He also says it’s crucial to think positively about money. This can help us beat things like fear, doubt, and waiting too long to act25.

Many teachings and products have come from the book, like seminars and financial resources24. Kiyosaki is now a well-known expert in financial education and starting businesses. His influence continues to be strong24.

Even today, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” motivates people to manage their money better. It shows how learning about money and changing how you think can lead to wealth and freedom2425.

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Conclusion

Rich Dad Poor Dad is a landmark book in personal finance. It urges readers to rethink how they view money and to steer their financial destinies26. It highlights the need for financial knowledge, creating wealth, and starting a business. This has motivated many to work towards their wealth goals and gain financial independence26.

Robert Kiyosaki’s take on money and education has won hearts around the world. Rich Dad Poor Dad is now seen as a key book in the field of personal finance. It has changed the way we talk about money knowledge, owning assets, and having an entrepreneurial spirit27.

People are still finding Rich Dad Poor Dad’s lessons life-changing. It will likely keep inspiring and empowering readers. This book’s advice and insights will influence future generations’ financial choices. It’s a vital read for anyone wanting to change how they deal with money and reach financial success26.

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FAQ

What is Rich Dad Poor Dad?

Rich Dad Poor Dad tells the story of two dads with different views on money. It was written by Robert T. Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter in 1997. The book has sold over 32 million copies and is available in many languages, making it the top personal finance book.

What is the main message of Rich Dad Poor Dad?

It shares the ideas of Kiyosaki’s two dads on money. It shows why it’s key to learn about finances and how to be smart with money. The goal is to be financially independent.

What is the Cash Flow Quadrant?

Kiyosaki introduced the Cash Flow Quadrant. He splits people into four groups based on how they make money: employees, self-employed, business owners, and investors. He suggests aiming to be a business owner or investor for financial freedom.

How does Rich Dad Poor Dad advocate building wealth?

The book says growing wealth is more than just having a good job. It’s about owning things like property and businesses. By letting your money make more money, you can reach financial freedom.

What are the criticisms of Rich Dad Poor Dad?

Some people say the book isn’t always accurate. They question if Kiyosaki’s story about his “rich dad” is true. They also doubt his personal wealth and success.

What is the impact of Rich Dad Poor Dad?

Rich Dad Poor Dad has changed how many people think about money. It has motivated readers to work towards being financially free. The book has led to more financial education products and made Kiyosaki a well-known teacher of financial wisdom and entrepreneurship.

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Source Links

  1. https://store.richdad.com/products/rich-dad-poor-dad-what-the-rich-teach-their-kids-about-money-that-the-poor-and-middle-class-do-not — Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the
  2. https://www.incorp.com/help-center/business-articles/rich-dad-business-advice — What Rich Dad, Poor Dad Says About Owning a Business
  3. https://briefer.com/books/rich-dad-poor-dad — Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki Summary — Briefer
  4. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bookreview-rich-dad-poor-cultivating-entrepreneurial-narasimhan — Bookreview- Rich Dad Poor Dad
  5. https://www.investopedia.com/robert-kiyosaki-7832587 — Robert Kiyosaki: The Man Behind ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’
  6. https://pathshalainsights.com/journey-of-robert-kiyosaki-rich-dad-poor-dad/ — Amazing Life Journey OF Robert Kiyosaki: Rich Dad Poor Dad Author — Pathshala Insights
  7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Kiyosaki — Robert Kiyosaki
  8. https://www.coachcarson.com/cash-flow-quadrant-how-earn-matters/ — The Cashflow Quadrant Explained — How You Earn Income Matters
  9. https://wealthfit.com/articles/cashflow-quadrant/ — The Cashflow Quadrant: How To Go From Employee To Investor — WealthFit
  10. https://www.richdad.com/cashflow-quadrant-fundamentals — Rich Dad Fundamentals: The CASHFLOW Quadrant
  11. https://www.cnbc.com/select/what-assets-are-important-building-wealth/ — These are the financial assets that are essential for building wealth according to The Aspen Institute
  12. https://www.caliberco.com/7-brilliant-ways-to-build-wealth-through-real-estate-investing/ — 7 Ways to Build Wealth Through Real Estate Investing — Caliber
  13. https://teachable.com/blog/limiting-beliefs-about-money — Common Limiting Beliefs About Money & How to Fix Them
  14. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jodiecook/2023/06/01/5-powerful-steps-to-overcoming-your-limiting-beliefs-around-money/ — 5 Powerful Steps To Overcoming Your Limiting Beliefs About Money
  15. https://www.ipeccoaching.com/blog/money-blocks-and-the-scarcity-mindset/ — Un-Limit Your Beliefs: Money Blocks and the Scarcity Mindset
  16. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business-to-business — Business-to-business
  17. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/btob.asp — Business-to-Business (B2B): What It Is and How It’s Used
  18. https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/definition/B2B — What is B2B (business-to-business) commerce and how does it work? | Definition from TechTarget
  19. https://hbr.org/2024/03/how-companies-should-weigh-in-on-a-controversy — How Companies Should Weigh In on a Controversy
  20. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Amazon — Criticism of Amazon
  21. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/09/29/the-business-benefits-of-book-publishing-and-how-to-achieve-them/ — Council Post: The Business Benefits Of Book Publishing And How To Achieve Them
  22. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/02/02/capitalizing-on-self-publishing-in-todays-market/ — Council Post: Capitalizing On Self-Publishing In Today’s Market
  23. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/importance-of-financial-literacy — The Importance of Financial Literacy in Business
  24. https://iamsevy.medium.com/mastering-wealth-unpacking-rich-dad-poor-dads-timeless-lessons-6dc549e1b60c — Mastering Wealth: Unpacking ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’s’ Timeless Lessons
  25. https://aclasses.org/rich-dad-poor-dad/ — Rich Dad Poor Dad By Robert T. Kiyosaki — 7 Key Lessons for Beginners — Learning From The Masters — AClasses Media
  26. https://www.growthink.com/businessplan/help-center/business-plan-conclusion — Business Plan Conclusion: Summary & Recap | Growthink
  27. https://databox.com/business-report-conclusion — How to Write a Great Business Report Conclusion: Everything You Need to Know | Databox

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