Rich Dad Poor Dad

• 1.The core principle is 'Don't work for money, make money work for you' - focus on building assets that generate income rather than trading time for wages.
• 2.Avoid becoming a 'slave to money' by letting fear and greed drive decisions; instead, work to learn new skills that increase your value and earning potential.
• 3.Distinguish between assets (things that put money in your pocket) and liabilities (things that take money out) - focus on accumulating income-generating assets.
• 4.Your job is not your business; your business should be your assets - treat asset building as your primary enterprise.
• 5.Develop financial literacy in four key areas: accounting, investing, markets, and law - or hire professionals who possess this knowledge.

Rich Dad Poor Dad presents Robert Kiyosaki's financial education through the contrasting philosophies of his two father figures: his biological father (the 'poor dad') who was highly educated but struggled financially, and his friend's father (the 'rich dad') who built wealth through business and investing. The book's central message is to shift from working for money to making money work for you by building income-generating assets rather than accumulating liabilities. Kiyosaki emphasizes avoiding the 'rat race' of trading time for wages and instead focusing on learning valuable skills that increase earning potential. He distinguishes between true assets (investments, businesses, intellectual property) and common misconceptions like personal residences or luxury items that actually drain resources. The book advocates treating asset building as your primary business, developing financial literacy across accounting, investing, markets, and law, and respecting your knowledge boundaries by hiring professionals when needed. This classic personal finance book has sold over 30 million copies worldwide and remains foundational reading for anyone seeking financial independence.