How Much is Enough?

About the Book

How Much is Enough? will help you identify your core values. From a clarification of these you can then establish a series of goals and action steps that, taken together, fulfill them. Money is only one element in fulfilling your values, and I hope that through this book you can expand your understanding of what true financial planning should be and its proper place in the hierarchy of life-sustaining values and the achievement of your dreams.

The following is an expanded book summary: Many people have asked me for investment advice. Having observed my own success, they felt I could help them as well. During the early years I made numerous suggestions but noticed that in most, though not all cases, my suggestions were ignored. I soon came to the realization that there was a mis-match between my suggestions and their fundamental personality traits and values.

It was from this realization that the idea for How Much is Enough? developed. Financial advice, by itself, was just not hitting home with these folks. I first needed to help them define their values and the goals to fulfill them. Once that was done, they could approach the action steps required to attain those goals. Furthermore, they also needed to take a close look at their personality, especially as it related to risk.

What emerged was a book focused on helping the reader to define their values, goals and personality traits, all leading towards a more grounded and healthy attitude towards investing. Grounded, because the investment decisions they made would compliment their values and goals rather than reflect those of the salesman, neighbor, friend, etc. Healthy, because the investment program would reflect their personality rather than that of the “hot tip” salesman, the friendly stock broker, or the neighborhood (are there any left?) banker.

I began writing the book in 1987 and over the years have substantially revised it on the basis of people’s lived experience. I am proud to say that it has helped many people to attain dreams they never imagined, not the kind of instant riches some books promise, but rather the true financial success and independence that fit each reader’s values and personality.

The book is divided into thirteen chapters, the final one focused on questions I have been asked and how my philosophy applies to them. The chapter headings are: Financial planning, Setting the stage, Discovering your values, Setting your goals, Discovering yourself, Tying it all together, Make your goals and action steps simple, Self-assessment of your financial position, How do the values and goals you have defined fit in with your financial condition?, Getting advice, Building on success and distinguishing between process and goals, Building a capital base or reducing financial pressures; which is best for you?, Taking the time: a lifetime process. Also included are answers to practical applications of the principles of How Much is Enough. These include: Medical emergencies and insurance; Do I need my mortgage payment for a tax deduction?; Buying the next house; What about new types of investments?; I’m young and starting out on my own; What should I consider when buying life insurance?; Starting your own business; Can I make my own investment decisions?; How can I determine my tolerance for investment risk?; The stock market: various perspectives; a long historical perspective on the market; Mutual funds: Index funds and beating the market; Real estate or Index funds: What works for you?; Annuities; and finally, Rating a stock broker.

The book was designed with ease of use in mind. It has a comfortable, conversational style that will help you get a perspective on your personal finances, with true stories that illustrate the most important points.

Also included are simple exercises that will help you gain a sense of control over your financial life. To maximize the benefits from this book, it will be n

About the Author

Michael Pinto has a Ph.D. in learning and change in human systems with a research concentration in Appreciative Inquiry and Public School Foundations. He has been a successful teacher, businessman, and community leader. As a result of his financial success and ensuing independence, he has chosen to devote his life and talent to building community and leading nonprofit foundations.