The Seattle Times reviewed Barbara Stanny’s book Prince Charming Isn’t Coming and said, “A heart-to-heart talk about the psychological and financial tools women need to take control of their economic destiny.” I agree and that’s why it is our Book Club Selection for July.
Barbara Stanny writes Prince Charming Isn’t Coming from her personal been there, done that, learned a lot and never want to do that again point of view. The subtitle, How Women Get Smart About Money is truly the essence of this book.
Let me ask you four questions:
Not sure of your checkbook balance?
Not sure if or where you have a retirement account?
Don’t have the time or money to save?
Believe someone will “rescue you” if you need financial help?
If you can answer “yes” to any of these questions, Prince Charming Isn’t Coming by Barbara Stanny is a must read for you. This isn’t strictly a financial “how-to” book because the author is convinced that wealth building begins on the inside. We all, not just women, need to understand our “inner” relationship with money first, before we can develop a healthy financial future.
I acknowledge that times are changing and many women are much more financially savvy and self-confident but it never hurts to reinforce the basics. This is a good basic look at the some of the prevailing attitudes women have about money. Frankly, I’ve read this book a couple of times.
Barbara Stanny has divided her book into three parts:
Part One – The Problem – This is the “inner work.”
Here’s one chapter title, “If I’m so smart, why am I so dumb about money?” I read that and shook my head in acknowledgment; I totally understood what she meant.
I found it very helpful and interesting to read Barbara’s personal story. Even though her father was one of the founders of H & R Block, she grew up in an environment in which women were dependent on men for their financial future. How many of us can relate to that? She speaks to us in clear English and from the heart. It’s like having a conversation with a friend.
Part Two - The Process – This is the “aha” part.
This section could be that “aha” break-through for taking you from where you are now to where you’d like to be financially in the future.
Barbara shares six “Realizations” that could possibly change your financial life forever.
Realization #1 – No One Will Do This For Me
Realization #2 – Learning Follows A Curve
Realization #3 – All the Answers Aren’t Out There
Realization #4 – There Are No Secrets
Realization #5 – Risk Is Not A Synonym for Loss
Realization # 6 – I Don’t Have To Do This Alone
This section is practical, straightforward and broken down into bite-sized pieces. You’ll want to read, work and digest is section carefully.
Part Three – The Power – This is the financial advice part.
Realization #7 – I Can Make A Difference
Barbara believes it is important to use your money to express your personal values and beliefs – that is the power. Firmly acting on your values and beliefs with confidence and pride makes you a very powerful woman who can and will make a difference.
Each chapter of Prince Charming Isn’t Coming has a “Recapped” summary along with “To Do” exercises and activities. It’s like a text and workbook all rolled into one.
Some people classify Prince Charming Isn’t Coming as cheerleading or a pep talk – I say, what’s wrong with that? If you’re looking for hard-core financial advice on bonds, mutual funds and the stock market then this book isn’t for you.
Barbara Stanny has developed quite a reputation for championing women toward achieving financial freedom and independence. I also highly recommend her other two books, Secrets of Six Figure Women and Overcoming Underearning.
Here’s a link to Amazon.com if you’d like to read more about or purchase Barbara Stanny’s Prince Charming Isn’t Coming. Prince Charming Isn't Coming
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