The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason

I didn’t pick up this book because I wanted to be rich, nor was it because I was tired of feeling broke, even when I had a paycheck- case in point, I read it when I was in university because I wanted to learn how to use the little money I had, courtesy of saving and side gigs to work for me.

And honestly? I knew nothing about Babylon before reading this. Not the pyramids. Not the Hanging Gardens. Not even that they kept financial records on clay tablets. (Yes, I Googled it after. Yes, I’m now weirdly obsessed.)

This book, told through parables of ancient Babylonian goldsmiths, merchants, and wise scribes, didn’t give me a get-rich-quick plan.
It gave me something better: a get-rich-slowly-and-steadily plan.

My biggest takeaway?
Don’t work for money. Make money work for you.

That means:

• Pay yourself first, even if it’s just 10% of what you earn.
• Avoid anything that screams “FAST MONEY!” because if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. (Ponzi schemes, I’m looking at you.)
• Research before you invest. Not just a quick YouTube video. Real research.
• Let time be your silent partner.

I’m continuing this year with intention. No impulsive buys. No FOMO investments. Just a simple rule: Save before you spend. Always.

I used to think wealth was about how much you make. Now I know: it’s about how little you need to be happy.

And maybe, that’s the oldest secret of all.

Thanks, Babylon.
You may be gone… but your wisdom? Still standing.

Have you read this book? What’s one money habit you’ve changed after reading something unexpected? Let me know in the comments.