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Win a personally autographed copy of the revised edition of The Simple Path to Wealth

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For a while now I have noticed people quoting me from my books.

At first it was just charming and brought a smile to my face. But then, as they continued and became more common, the number of quotes grew. I began to regret I hadn’t thought to collect them.

Ah well, no going back for those. But that didn’t mean I couldn’t more intentionally reach out to collect a new set.

Here’s the deal:

  • I’ll be giving away five (5) copies of the new edition of The Simple Path to Wealth and/or Pathfinders.
  • In each I’ll not only autograph it, I’ll provide a short personalized message to you (or who you chose) by name.
  • Be warned: my handwriting is atrocious. If you prefer to have me not deface, er, autograph your book just let me know and I’ll send you an unmolested copy.

Here’s what you need to do to be considered:

  • In the comments on this post, and only there, share your favorite quote from The Simple Path to Wealth or Pathfinders.
  • Briefly tell me why it is meaningful to you.
  • Specify which book it is from and the page number where it can be found.
  • Feel free to offer more than one quote, if more than one has moved you.
  • Tell me which book you’d like me to send to you. It doesn’t have to be the one where the quote you chose is from.

The Details:

  • Five (5) winners will be chosen at random.
  • By entering you grant permission to use the quote, your comments about it and your name in other formats.
  • US only.
  • Must be 18 or older.
  • Entries close July 15 at 11:59 PM CT.
  • Winners will be notified via email and shared in this blog post.
  • No purchase necessary to enter.

I very much look forward to reading what you come up with and hope you have fun with it.

Good luck!

**************************************

And the winners are…

  • Bruno Bontempi
  • Catherine Brites
  • Kenneth Tobin
  • Deep Sutaria
  • Julie

Congratulations to you each, your autographed books are on the way!

Thanks to everyone who participated!

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Important Resources

  • Talent Stacker is a resource that I learned about through my work with Jonathan and Brad at ChooseFI, and first heard about Salesforce as a career option in an episode where they featured Bradley Rice on the Podcast. In that episode, Bradley shared how he reached FI quickly thanks to his huge paychecks and discipline in keeping his expenses low. Jonathan teamed up with Bradley to build Talent Stacker, and they have helped more than 1,000 students from all walks of life complete the program and land jobs like clockwork, earning double or even triple their old salaries using a Salesforce certification to break into a no-code tech career.
  • Credit Cards are like chain saws. Incredibly useful. Incredibly dangerous. Resolve to pay in full each month and never carry a balance. Do that and they can be great tools. Here are some of the very best for travel hacking, cash back and small business rewards.
  • Empower is a free tool to manage and evaluate your investments. With great visuals you can track your net worth, asset allocation, and portfolio performance, including costs. At a glance you'll see what's working and what you might want to change. Here's my full review.
  • Betterment is my recommendation for hands-off investors who prefer a DIFM (Do It For Me) approach. It is also a great tool for reaching short-term savings goals. Here is my Betterment Review
  • NewRetirement offers cool tools to help guide you in answering the question: Do I have enough money to retire? And getting started is free. Sign up and you will be offered two paths into their retirement planner. I was also on their podcast and you can check that out here:Video version, Podcast version.
  • Tuft & Needle (T&N) helps me sleep at night. They are a very cool company with a great product. Here’s my review of what we are currently sleeping on: Our Walnut Frame and Mint Mattress.
  • Vanguard.com

Filed Under: The Book: The Simple Path to Wealth

Comments

  1. kenneth tobin says

    Put all your eggs in one basket which to me is all your stock allocations in to Vanguard Total Stock Index Fund or the SP500 Index Fund-page 106
    I love the quote from Bernstein, ” When you win the game cash in your chips””
    OBVIOUSLY a big loss like 2000 and 2008 devastated many portfolios
    I would love Simple Path and spread the word in my community where I run a Finance Club

    Reply

  2. Kevin Greisiger says

    Good day JL. I have both audiobooks. I would like a copy of the hardcover of the simple path to wealth please. My favorite chapter is in the first part of the audiobook Pathfinders- The Superpower of time. It is meaningful to me because my Dad walked away from active work at 49.

    Reply

  3. Conner says

    My favorite quote is from The Simple Path to Wealth on page 5 in the parable of the monk and the minister. My favorite line is the last sentence of the parable “if you could learn to live on rice and beans, you wouldn’t have to cater to the king.” I love this quote and this story as it really shows how our wants and desires for material things can put us at the mercy of others. It was very eye opening to see people to rush to spend their stimulus checks during covid while also fearing layoffs a year later. If I am chosen for the drawing please send me a copy of your newest edition of The Simple Path to Wealth so that I may be able to share it with others.

    Reply

  4. Andrew M. says

    To be honest, I was never much of book reader. I got interested in the FIRE movement in 2018-19. I always had a interest in investing and saving for retirement, so the FIRE concept bought a clarity to how simple investing could be with out all the fees that are generated by making it more complex and less profitable for the individual investor. I’ve read or listened more than a dozen books on FIRE/Investing/Wealth building and the likes since 2018-19, many of which were “good”, however, only one ranks as “GREAT”, The Simple Path to Wealth. I recommend to everyone I get the chance to bring it up with, some of whom I’ve bought copies for. How important is to me? – Its in my Will, that if I die before I get a chance to teach my son the principles and have him read the book, my wife, or my son’s guardian(if we both die) will be asked to give him a copy of the book and relay the importance of its principles. It really contains everything you need to know

    Reply

  5. Chinmay Limaye says

    “If you reach for a star, you might not get one. But you won’t come up with a handful of mud either.”

    This is such a great thought. I have kept reading it again and again.

    The reason – Very simple — this not only applies to investing but to any part of life itself.

    This was once mentioned earlier in the book, but whenever it appeared again on Page 278 of The Simple Path to Wealth Revised Edition, I wanted to put it in the comment.

    I would like to have a copy of “Simple Path to Wealth”.

    Reply

  6. Nava N. says

    My favorite quote is from:
    The Simple Path to Wealth – Chapter 3, page 15 (ebook)
    “For me, the pursuit of financial independence has never been about retirement. I like working, and I’ve enjoyed my career. It’s been about having options. It’s been about being able to say ‘no.’ It’s been about having F-You Money and the freedom it provides.”
    I love this quote because it encapsulates my Money concept, since I’ve read your book.
    The moment I read it, my heart said: “Yes, yes, yes, this is what I want!”
    My money journey since then has been all about working towards achieving F-You money, and it’s been joyful (to discover my path to wealth), scary (what if I can’t do it), and determined to go for the gold, or rather for the F-You money.
    Like Mr. Collins, I want the freedom to choose what to do with my days for the rest of my days. Like Mr. Collins, I want to experience the joy of work with the freedom of not having a job.
    I would love to have a copy of Pathfinders.

    Reply

  7. Danny says

    One of my favorite quotes from The Simple Path to Wealth, page 2/your blog overall will always be, “Spend less than you earn—invest the surplus—avoid debt”. When I originally read this it instantly clicked for me. We were able to apply this simple message very quickly. I constantly find myself quoting this to any friends/family that are willing to listen. This guideline helped fuel our own FI journey and ultimately lead to our very fortunate inclusion in Pathfinders with so many wonderful stories. If I am lucky enough to be chosen I would very much like a copy of the newest edition of The Simple Path to Wealth.

    Reply

  8. Ted S says

    I just wanted to share my deep appreciation for The Simple Path to Wealth. One quote that has always stuck with me is your reminder that “The market always recovers. The only way you lose is if you sell.” It perfectly captures why timing the market is a fool’s errand, and why patience and discipline win the long game.

    Your book hasn’t just changed my family’s life; it will change our children’s lives and future generations to come. Thanks in large part to the principles you laid out so clearly, I was able to retire at age 46. These days, I still work recreationally, but no one has any idea I’ve quietly built a multi-million-dollar portfolio by following the simple, powerful strategies you’ve championed.

    When it comes to personal finance, you’re a hero in my book.

    Reply

  9. Joe O says

    Good grief, hostage takers have fewer instructions. And I’m a big JL fan. I’ve always liked the bit about how you are just a Steward of the money for future generations. That resonates with me as a father. I’m too lazy to look it up but I’m pretty sure it was in The Simple Path towards the beginning.

    Reply

  10. William Rueger says

    The most powerful quote in your book that absolutely changed my life is “Waste no time. Debt is a crisis that needs immediate attention. If you are currently in debt, paying it off is your top priority. Nothing else is more important.” (pg. 27 hard cover)
    I want to thank you for writing the best book I ever read. I could picture you raising a glass in a kudos salute to me!
    God Bless.
    Bill R.

    Reply

  11. BA says

    “The market always goes up. Not each day. Not each month. Not each year. But over time, and relentlessly, it goes up.”

    Thank you 🙂

    Reply

  12. Osmar Padilla says

    “Since money is the single most powerful tool we have for navigating this complex world we’ve created, understanding it is critical. If you choose to master it, money becomes a wonderful servant. If you don’t, it will surely master you.”
    – The Simple Path to Wealth, p.1

    From the very first page of the original edition, this quote hit me because it reframes the stakes. Money isn’t just about freedom or comfort, it’s about control of your life. Either you learn to manage it, or it quietly starts managing you. That shift in mindset has been transformational for me. When I began treating money as a tool to serve my goals, not as something to chase or fear, I gained real clarity and confidence. The stress and uncertainty that once ruled my decisions started to fade, replaced by a sense of calm and direction.

    The Simple Path to Wealth was a turning point in that process. The book had a profound impact on me, and I’ve given away every copy I’ve bought to friends and family who were looking for guidance. It’s the kind of book I feel compelled to share with others. I’d love a another copy of it to keep for myself.

    Reply

  13. Matt C. says

    “If you choose to master it, money becomes a wonderful servant. If you don’t, it will surely master you”.
    Pg 3 from the simple path to wealth.

    I highlighted this quote b/c it hit me like a lightening bolt. I thought about it for days after reading. It’s simple but powerful. But I knew I was going to enjoy the book with this quote laying the foundation.

    Would love a copy of pathfinders as I have yet to read it.

    Reply

  14. Brian Griesbach says

    My favorite quote is from page xiii of The Simple Path to Wealth:

    “‘If you could learn to live on rice and beans, you wouldn’t have to cater to the king.’

    Most of us fall somewhere between the two. As for me, it is better to be closer to the monk.”

    That resonated with me the first time I read the book in 2017 and every time since. It perfectly sums up the trade-off between freedom and living within one’s means vs. subservience.

    I were luckily enough to be chosen to receive a book, I would like The Simple Path to Wealth.

    Reply

  15. Dave says

    Today I was excited to try to win a copy of The Simple Path to Wealth. But then I discovered that to win a copy, I first had to already own a copy to find a quote and the page number. Hmm. A conundrum.

    Therefore, my favorite quote is “The Simple Path to Wealth” and it’s found on page 0 (the cover). I like to keep things simple. 🙂

    Reply

  16. Melvin Rivera says

    Favorite Quote: “Spend less than you earn, invest the surplus, avoid debt.”

    This quote is the foundation of financial freedom. It’s simple but many lack the discipline to follow through on this principle.

    Chapter 1: I only have the audiobook.

    I’d appreciate a copy of the latest version of simple path to wealth

    Reply

  17. Stephen Schleppegrell says

    Spend less than you earn. (Live below your means)
    The most fundamental of the Simple Path. Once you fully appreciate that living a happy life does not depend upon spending more, your nest egg will grow and you’ll soon never “NEED” to work for anyone else.
    Dept? Ridiculously unnecessary.

    Reply

  18. Kyle G says

    Favorite quote: “Life choices are not always about the money, but you should always be clear about the financial impact of the choices you make”. Other favorite quotes: “You own the things you own and they in turn own you.” and “Money can buy many things, but nothing more valuable than your freedom.”

    These quotes are meaningful to me as it’s a reminder that the meaning and beauty of life isn’t about money, however every single decision we make may have a financial aspect to it which will affect us in some way. Having a healthy relationship with money unlocks the freedom and beauty of life by not having to worry about the often hidden dangers of being tied down by money burdens.

    These quotes are from the original “Simple Path to Wealth” in the Beginnings/Introduction section on Page 2.

    I’d like to receive the newly revised edition of The Simple Path to Wealth, to gift to my young daughters.

    Reply

  19. Mahnosh Partovi says

    The quote “Toughen up cupcake and cure your bad behavior” on pg 60 in the 1st edition of SPW is meaningful to me because that is the same advise I give my kids on various matters. It’s direct without any fluff and needs no filter.
    * if I randomly get chosen I would 💙an autographed copy of the SPW 2.0

    Reply

  20. Trey O. says

    Two of my favorite JL Collins quotes are interrelated:

    The way JL used the parable of the monk and the king’s minister was a paradigm-shifting moment for me and my mindset on wealth – I could relate with the wealthy minister feeling bad for the monk for not being more ‘ambitious’ as he encouraged his old friend toward a more lucrative – yet restrictive – path, saying “if you could learn to cater to the king, you wouldn’t have to live on rice and beans.” Then, the monk’s reply disillusioned me on the cost of the path I had been pursuing – “If you could learn to live on rice and beans, you wouldn’t have to cater to the king.” (pg. 5, The Simple Path to Wealth)

    This leads to my second favorite quote: “There are many things money can buy, but the most valuable of all is freedom. Freedom to do what you want and to work for whom you respect.” Together with the parable, this taught me a new perspective on finances – of using money as a tool for freedom, which in turn enables me to be intentional in using my finances to reflect my priorities.

    Finally, my third favorite quote from JL Collins: “Avoid fiscally irresponsible people. Never marry one or otherwise give him or her access to your money.” This one is especially relevant as my wife and I got married in March and have already seen how beneficial it is to be aligned in our financial strategy! I know she is resilient too, because she spent 5+ hours listening to me talk her through the JL Collins’ Stock Series before she said “I do.” We would love a personalized copy to display in our new home together.

    Reply

    • Mary says

      “Money can buy many things, None of which is more important than your financial independence” the simple path to wealth, pág 37.

      The simple formula for financial independence:
      “ spend less than you earn, invest the surplus, avoid debt” pág 4, and pág 37 of the simple path to wealth.

      Those are truths that resonate today after being unaware for many years buying many things but my freedom. I learned the hard way, and came across this book in my quest for financial freedom. never too late. Even though I am not financial independent yet, I am working towards thanks to the teachings of this book and I am also teaching the valuable lessons in the book to my daughter hoping she and her kids will do much better than I.

      This book is a great impact to me and to my future generations

      If chosen I would love to have a copy of the pathfinders. I am thirsty for reading this collection of success stories for my inspiration during this hard times (recently divorced a financial irresponsible man after 20 years of marriage) I want this stories to keep me pushing forward towards my financial freedom.

      Thank you JL Collins

      Reply

  21. Dustin Ribergaard says

    “I may not have owned a Mercedes, but I owned my freedom. Freedom to choose when to leave a job and freedom from worry when the choice wasn’t mine.” The Simple Path to Wealth, page 34 (New Edition)

    This one hit me hard. I spent over a decade in public service before an unexpected on-duty accident forced my early medical retirement. It wasn’t on my terms, and it could’ve been devastating. But because I had focused on living simply, saving consistently, and building up a financial cushion, I had something far more valuable than a fancy car—I had breathing room.

    That freedom let me be present with my family during a really difficult time. I wasn’t scrambling for the next paycheck. I got to wait for the right opportunity instead of the first one (which ultimately took 4 years). That space—to heal, to be selective, to stay grounded—was everything.

    JL’s words put language to something I lived through, and I regularly share this book with others who need to hear the same message.

    If selected, I’d love a signed copy of The Simple Path to Wealth.

    Reply

  22. John says

    This is a quote from Simple Path to Wealth, page 2 Beginnings
    “Avoid investment advisors. Too many have only their own interests at heart. By the time you know enough to pick a good one, you know enough to handle your finances yourself. It’s your money, and no one will care for it better than you.”
    This is also impactful for other areas of life. I invest in rental properties and avoid property managers. Why would you need a middleman and take a cut when you can work with tenants directly? It is simpler, cheaper, and better.

    I’d like to have your autographed Pathfinders, please.

    Reply

  23. Rahul says

    Good day JL,

    First of all, I want to thank you for your excellent books on personal finance. Your books have helped me establish and maintain a sound financial path, which I have been following since reading them. I would like to share a couple of my favorite quotes from ‘The Simple Path to Wealth.’

    “The Monk and the Minister: Two close boyhood friends grow up and go their separate ways. One becomes a humble monk, the other a rich and powerful minister to the king. Years later they meet. As they catch up, the portly minister (in his fine robes) takes pity on the thin and shabby monk. Seeking to help, he says: ‘You know, if you could learn to cater to the king, you wouldn’t have to live on rice and beans.’ To which the monk replies: ‘If you could learn to live on rice and beans, you wouldn’t have to cater to the king.'” (Page 5, The Simple Path to Wealth)

    I personally find this quote meaningful as it challenges to our assumptions about success and the monk reminds us that simplicity isn’t deprivation but liberation.

    Another quote that I like from the The Simple Path to Wealth book is:

    “There are many things money can buy, but the most valuable of all is freedom. Freedom to do what you want and to work for whom you respect.”

    I find this quote meaningful as it tells that true wealth means having choices—the ability to spend your time according to your values rather than necessity.

    Having borrowed and read the books from the library, I would like to have a copy of “The Simple Path to Wealth” if I get selected.

    Thank you for being a guiding light in this complex world of personal finance.

    Reply

  24. LUIS DEL VALLE says

    Hi JL,

    My favorite quote in The Simple Path to Wealth is “…the last twenty-year history of the S&P 500. In January 2005,it was around 1,211. In January 2025, it opened at 5,869…This where the real magic is found.” This quote is found on pages 54-55.

    This quote is most meaningful since it demonstrates the incredible growth of the stock market and thus VTSAX and that time period includes the housing crisis and COVID to name a few.

    If I’m selected, I would like Pathfinders so I can give five of my six kiddos a copy of the book…the sixth kiddo will receive my copy.

    Thanks,
    Luis

    Reply

  25. Nir says

    One of my favorite quotes from The Simple Path to Wealth is:
    “The market always goes up. Not each day, week, month or even each year. But always over time, relentlessly up.” (Page 41)

    This quote has been a grounding force for me. In a world full of noise, fear, and short-term thinking, it reminds me to stay the course and trust in the long game. It’s a perspective I’m now trying to pass on to my daughters so they grow up with financial confidence and clarity.

    I’d love to receive the new edition of The Simple Path to Wealth, dedicated to my two daughters, Leah (12) and Sarah (10). Thank you for all you’ve done to make this journey easier for so many of us.

    Reply

  26. Ross Richard says

    Since I’m a humble guy, I always appreciate quotes like “A little humility goes a long way to saving your ass and your cash.” Last sentence on page 192. Love the book and your version of the John Goodman ‘F*** You’ speech scene from the 2014 remake of The Gambler. Also love watching when you guest star on podcasts talking about your investing philosophy. Your wonderful advice helped me retire in 2019. Seven weeks until my sixth anniversary and my portfolio is up nearly 80%. The 4% rule is legit.

    Reply

  27. Mauro says

    Thank you – and a question about applying your teachings from Brazil

    Dear JL Collins,

    I really appreciated reading your book. It completely changed my perspective on investing and opened up new life possibilities for me.

    That being said, I’m Brazilian and not confident I fully understand how to apply your wisdom here. I won’t waste your time with specific questions, but rather share some general concerns that anyone living in a developing country might have. I believe you will agree with many of them — in fact, you mention some in your book — but I wasn’t able to reach a clear conclusion from your teachings.

    In a nutshell: I have no idea where to invest from here.
    Should I buy S&P 500, VTSAX, or VTWSX and accept the currency volatility?
    Should I invest in Brazilian total market index funds, even though our economy is much smaller, weaker, and more unstable than the US?
    Maybe a little bit of both?
    How much of each?

    On one hand, investing in our country’s index funds isn’t quite the same, because our economies are not at the center of global capitalism. I completely agree with your idea: if most companies in the S&P 500 or major US corporations go bankrupt in a short period, then the world as we know it is collapsing — we’ll have bigger problems than losing our investments. But when it comes to economies on the periphery of the system, like Brazil’s, it’s different: our economy could collapse and the world would go on.
    I’m no expert — not even close — but I believe some peripheral economies might struggle for long periods, and a “comeback” might not be as likely as it is for the US economy.

    On the other hand, there’s the issue of currency volatility.
    I remember when I was a kid, the USD/BRL exchange rate was around 1 to 1. Now it’s around 1 to 5. So if I invest in VTSAX, VTWSX, or the S&P 500 for the next 30 years, I’ll be exposed to massive surprises — for better or worse. Maybe my investments will be worth 10 times more… or 10 times less, depending on currency fluctuations.

    There are also smaller dilemmas — not as crucial, but still relevant.
    Brazilian ETFs that follow VTSAX, VTWSX, or the S&P 500 have much higher fees (for example, 0.30% in WRLD11 – https://www.investoetf.com/etf/wrld11/).
    The alternative would be opening an account abroad (in the US or Europe) to invest directly in Vanguard funds. But that raises a whole new set of concerns — taxes, inheritance issues if one spouse dies, legal complications, and so on.

    Here’s what I think I should do — please correct me if I’m wrong:
    Investing in the US economy is much safer than investing in Brazil.
    So I should invest in VTSAX, VTWSX, or S&P 500 funds.
    The dollar is very likely to remain stronger than the Brazilian real over time, so currency fluctuation is a smaller risk than the overall risk of the Brazilian economy.
    And I should still invest in Brazilian ETFs, even if the fees are higher — yes, it sucks, but it’s easier and safer in every practical and legal sense.

    I truly appreciate your help.
    I have very little experience with investing, but I have a background in philosophy — and I believe I can recognize an honest thinker who builds his advice on solid reasoning and facts. Thank you again.

    P.S. Here’s a good summary regarding index fund investing in Brazil. It’s in Portuguese, but I believe an automatic translation would do the job:
    https://www.bogleheadsbrasil.org/post/guia-bogleheads

    Warm regards,
    Mauro

    Reply

  28. Bruno Bontempi says

    Here are my favorites from Pathfinders.
    Page 5, “Investing is one of those rare (maybe the only) areas in your life where once you get those basics set, *the less you do the better your results*.”
    I’m a natural tinkerer. The words above help me keep my beastly instincts at bay.

    Page 232, “You gotta knock on a lot of doors and hearing ‘No’ doesn’t hurt. You just move on and keep looking for ‘Yes’.”.
    Simple advice, wide applicability, from the mouth of a 5-year-old. And it works!

    I would give away a big chunk of my financial freedom for an autographed copy of SPW, 2nd edition.

    The last quote is a popular saying in the Philippines, “Salamat sa buhay mo”, which roughly translates to
    Thanks for all you do.

    Reply

  29. Miguel Quezada says

    I don’t have a copy or have read either book. I am starting my journey late, but with the wisdom of many mistakes.
    My favorite quote is the “…learn to live on rice and beans..” story.
    I, like many, have made mistakes by living outside my means. I am changing that. I am learning to live on, and loving rice and beans.
    I hope to receive a copy of The Simple Path to Wealth. I will then move on to Pathfinders, and I will by the expensive copy, if I get a free copy of The Simple Path. 🙂

    Reply

  30. Anton K says

    My favorite quote is on page 87 of Simple Path To Wealth, 2nd edition. It is “The more complex an investment, the less likely it is to be profitable”. It is a very simple idea, but not fully grasping it cost me a lot of money over the years. I do have my main investments in VTSAX, but every time I seem to hear the siren song of complexity – “you sold your house and the market is high, just DCA it into the market” or “AI is so hot right now – buy a few stocks” or “the market is high, how about a little hedge with put options?” or “maybe I should invest in dividend stocks”. And every time I did – I got burned to different degrees by subpar performance. I mean – an occasional stock going up 400% is nice and all, but it usually gets offset by 10 others going up less than the market (or down). Just putting it in VTSAX and letting it be works much better.

    If I do win – I would like to get the autographed copy of Simple Path to Wealth, 2nd edition. It is a great book!

    Reply

  31. Michael Dave says

    I posted this earlier and it never showed up so trying again.

    The monk vs minister is, of course, one of the best and it was hard not to choose that one and here are my favorites:

    From Page 12 of first edition of the book:

    “The older I get the more I hold each day precious. I’ve become steadily more relentless in purging from my life things, activities and people who no longer add value while seeking out and adding those that do.

    It’s a big beautiful world out there. Money is a small part of it. But F-you Money buys you the freedom, resources and time to explore it on your own terms. Retired or not.”

    This is exactly what I’ve learned as I’m aging too. Time is precious as Benjamin Franklin noted because they’re not making any more of it.

    Here’s my 2nd favorite. Chapter 23 page 181..

    “The great irony of successful investing is that simple is cheaper and more profitable. Complicated investments only benefit the people and the companies that sell them.

    Remember that nobody will care for your money better than you. With less effort than choosing an advisor, you can learn to manage your money yourself, with far less cost and better results.”

    This coincides with one of my other learnings in life: One that simple is generally better and two that no one will guard my well being better than me.

    I’d LOVE to get an autographed copy from JL who has become not only a hero but someone who I love listening to purely for his relaxed, kind and generous attitude and his willingness to share what he has learned in life in a simple way.

    Reply

  32. Heidi Kramer says

    Favorite quote:
    “For me the pursuit of financial independence has never been about retirement. It’s been about having options. It’s been about saying no. It’s been about having F-you money and the freedom it provides.”
    The simple path to wealth. Page 5 New Edition
    Another favorite is “Carrying debt is as appealing as being covered with leeches and has much the same effect.”
    Both quotes lit a fire in me to save as much of my income as feasible. I’ve had a lot of crappy jobs and an equal number of bad bosses. Knowing I had F-You money saved and the ability to quit when I reached my limit was liberating.
    If I’m lucky to get selected, I like an inscribed & autographed copy of The simple path to wealth.

    Reply

  33. Deep Sutaria says

    I’d love a copy of Pathfinders — I’ve heard the real-life stories in it are incredibly motivating.

    “You own the things you own and they in turn own you.”
    — The Simple Path to Wealth, page 26.

    This quote hit me like a lightning bolt. It made me reevaluate how much energy, time, and money I spend maintaining stuff I don’t really need. Since then, I’ve focused more on freedom and less on accumulating — and it’s been life-changing.

    Reply

  34. Esther says

    To be honest, I’m still reading your book “The Simple Path to Wealth” (older edition ebook).

    A quote that has stuck out to me so far is “One of my very few regrets is that I spent far too much time worrying about how things might work out. It’s a huge waste of time, but it is a bit hardwired into me. Don’t do it.” (page 12) I’m currently unemployed, partly by choice, partly not (the hiring process is moving much slower than I expected). This book is helping me quell my feelings of worry, the guilt that I have for not having a job and being able to save to provide for my family and retirement. I wouldn’t say I’m a FIRE acolyte, but I’ve dabbled in understanding the aspects and always understood the value of FU money, so thankfully I’ve been saving all along, even before reading this book. It requires a bit of effort, but it’s helpful to remind myself, things will be okay, time will pass, things will come and go, and it helps to read others have gone through the gamut and learned the same lesson.

    Although, the human in me can’t resist things shiny, new, and revised, I think I’ll choose the Pathfinders book if I’m selected. I’ll probably look for the revised copy of SPW when I finally get through the older copy I have.

    Reply

  35. Hunter Vincent says

    My favorite quote is “Simple is good. Simple is easier. Simple is more profitable.” This quote is from the first page of chapter 10 in The Simple Path to Wealth. I love this quote because as an investor, I have done loads of research to find unicorn stocks only to realize that the hard part is not finding the right investment, but it is having the money to invest and consistently investing it. I use VTI and the Vanguard Target Retirement 2065 trust plus.

    Reply

  36. Julie says

    Simple Path to Wealth has had such a positive impact on our family and my husband and I have learned so much about investing from this book – I make a point to reread it once a year. I love the parable about the monk and the minister. In the same vein I love the chapter on debt when JL says, “I may not have owned a Mercedes but I owned my freedom. Freedom to choose when to leave a job and freedom from worry when the choice wasn’t mine.” Freedom from worry during uncertain times is definitely something to strive for.

    Reply

  37. Melissa Wetzel says

    The Simple Path to Wealth quote, page 35:

    “Being independently wealthy is every bit as much about limiting needs as it is about how much money you have. It has less to do with how much you earn […] than what you value. Money can buy many things, none of which is more important than your financial independence.”

    This passage crystallized for me that I’m in the driver’s seat—I can determine my true needs and what I’m willing for it to cost me in years of work. This book showed me the autonomy I have in my professional and financial life. It started with F-U Money and now I’m working toward FIRE…the best thing money can buy me is my time.

    Thanks, JL, for all that you do and for this promo! If chosen, I’d like the new Simple Path to Wealth.

    Reply

  38. Amber Reish says

    The Simple Path to Wealth has been the single most impactful book I’ve read to date. I first found the stock series and read all of those before purchasing the book. I searched for a long time for meaningful investment advice that was easy to comprehend and apply. I re-read it each year and have found that something new resonates with me after each read. I gift this book to friends that express interest in their finances and to any recent high school grads. I recommend reading it as a book that will “change your life”. Thank you for this gift of information!

    “You own the things you own and they in turn own you” from page 2 of The Simple Path to Wealth is a quote that I repeat often to myself or to friends when considering a purchase and it often re-directs my thinking.

    I also love the section on FU $ and how the single best thing $ can buy is your freedom. What a perspective!

    I would love to have a signed copy (memento) of the new version to “A Simple Path to Wealth” –the most impactful book I have ever read.

    -Amber

    Reply

  39. Rocco Stevens says

    “To start, you need to understand a few things about the stock market. Number one, market crashes are to be expected. What happened in 2008 was not something unheard of, it has happened before and it will happen again and again. In the 40 odd years I’ve been investing we’ve had
    • The Great Recession of 1974-75
    • The massive inflation of the late 70s and early 1980s (raise your hand if you remember WIN buttons-whip inflation now)
    • Mortgage rates were pushing 20%
    • You could buy a 10 year treasury note paying 15% or more
    • the now infamous 1979 Business Week cover The Death of Equities, which as it turns out, marked the coming of the greatest bull market of all time
    • The Crash of 1987 including Black Monday the biggest one day drop in history. Brokers were literally on the window ledges and more than a couple took the leap
    • The recession of the early 1990’s
    • The tech crash of the late 1990s
    • 9/11
    • And of course, that little dust up in 2008
    (The Simple Path to Wealth, Chapter 6 audiobook 01:26:55)

    This quote brings me peace. It reframes what would otherwise feel like chaos and uncertainty into something expected—even cyclical. Knowing that over 40 years of investing, crashes will happen but the market will continue its upward climb gives me clarity and confidence. Thank you JL Collins for laying this out for us!

    [Book choice if selected: the new edition of The Simple Path to Wealth, signed]

    Reply

  40. Lazy FI Dad says

    I want to mention your quote that I don’t think made it into the books (please correct me if I’m wrong) but it’s one of my all-time favourites (even outside the world of personal finance):

    ‘In fact, I have this vision of the Birth Angel approaching God in ‘91 and saying, “Hey there, God, we’re planning to send a little baby girl down to that Collins guy.”
    And God saying, “Ah, man. Really? Did I authorize this? I did?? Guess this day hadda come. Well, send him the easiest, best one you’ve got. He can’t handle much.” And so, I got Jessica.’

    Source: https://jlcollinsnh.com/2011/06/08/how-i-failed-my-daughter-and-a-simple-path-to-wealth/

    I absolutely love this quote as it summarises exactly how I felt as a new dad and how I feel about my daughter. I quoted it (with credit to you) in numerous conversations. It shows how humble you are as a dad and how much you love your daughter, and I think that’s beautiful.

    If I have to choose a quote from a book, my favourite quote is the monk parable from “The Simple Path to Wealth”.

    If chosen, I’d love to have you deface (lol) the new version of “The simple path to wealth”, please, it’s my all-time favourite (the old version, for now) personal finance book.

    Reply

  41. James Fisher says

    Favorite Quote: “Am I Warren Buffet? If the answer is no, keep your feet firmly on the ground with indexing”

    Why it is meaningful: This quote is a good reminder that Warren Buffet is one of the vanishingly few people on earth that can beat the market consistently. I have to remind myself of this quote often when folks describe their “more exciting” investment strategies and I’m tempted to take the “simple path to wealth – with a twist”. As someone who does a lot of computer programming for a living, it’s really hard to resist the temptation to tinker my portfolio, thinking my background math and programming somehow gives me an edge. But I don’t have an edge. Tinkering is more effort and will almost certainly result in lower returns. The rest of us mere mortals are better off spending our time and energy on more important things that will actually yield positive results.

    Where it’s from: O.G Simple Path to Wealth (Audible Audiobook) Chapter 11 @ 9:19

    If selected, the defaced & new edition The Simple Path to Wealth would be great!

    Reply

  42. Catherine Brites says

    I just finished reading a digital copy of your newest version of “The Simple Path to Wealth” during moments my 19mo old let me (while keeping me up sometimes until 5 am – it’s currently 2:15am). 😂
    I didn’t expect to learn a lot I hadn’t already worked hard to learn myself (taking various classes, reading books, blogs, etc). However, I have a 22yr old going out on her own and I wanted something that would be easy for her & my 15yr old to read and easily understand. I think this book will do the job, especially if we do it book club style. That way they can ask questions and put some of the concepts down to what they think things will be like.
    My lessons have been hard learned and habits/societal draws definitely can work against you as you mentioned in the book.
    I think my dad loved finances as much as you, however, I didn’t learn a lot from him besides the importance of compounding interest. He helped me learn a bit about investing (basically invest it & “forget” about it). The percentage he had told me back then was withdrawing 6% a year of your investments would survive any crash. This was before the year 2000 so he would probably agree with your updated analysis.
    I think my favorite quote in this book is “For me, the pursuit of financial independence has never been about retirement…(me too by the way)…It’s been about having options…It’s been about having ‘F-You Money'”. I had never heard of the concept of F-You money in the way you talk about it.
    I’ve always said “Retirement, to me, is working because I want to, not because I have to.” I just hadn’t been able to figure out how to invest well. I’ve fallen into the financial advisor trap and wasn’t happy with it. I just didn’t have the time or interest in reading through all of the info on various mutual funds to figure out if I wanted in, what things I needed to watch for to see if I needed to get out, etc.
    The two companies my dad had recommended as good companies to invest with was Fidelity & Vanguard. Now I understand the difference between them and have even more confidence in moving my money around, which I started doing as I read the book.
    Somehow, through all our pitfalls, our net worth is around half a million. Our investments are nowhere near where they need to be for retirement and we have about 20 years to make up for it.
    This book has definitely helped clarify the path that will get us to where we need to be the fastest.
    I’m finally excited about finances again since I have a clear path to get there.
    Sorry for the super long review. I get chatty in the early hours of the morning. Feel free to edit it for better reading.
    I just think, if I wait until the morning, I won’t have the time or ability to sit & type, not to mention having to remember. (So far 2 out of 4 of my kids have been formally diagnosed with ADHD & Dysgraphia- I think they get it from me.)
    I’m new to you as an author and resource, but I know I’d love to have a physical copy of this book. Then I can give my kids the choice between digital & hard copy. I do hope you record the new audiobook, even if you can’t publish it until 2027. I think books read by the author is the best. You know the emphasis is in the right place and you’re getting the right story.
    I was actually upset there wasn’t an audiobook for the new one. I usually consume my books on the road and/or waiting for my kids. With a 19 mo old, I don’t usually have time to read or write.
    She’s actually playing quietly & not jumping all over me like I’m a jungle gym.
    Thank you for writing this book! From the bottom of a very grateful heart.

    Reply

  43. Keith Principe (KP) says

    My favorite quote is from The Simple Path to Wealth:
    “This is where ‘F-You Money’ comes in. It’s that money that gives you choices. It’s not about being rich; it’s about being free.” (Page 83)
    This quote profoundly impacted me because it reframes the entire purpose of saving and investing. It’s not just about accumulating a large sum, but about gaining the ultimate freedom: the ability to make choices that align with your values, rather than being dictated by financial necessity. The “F-You Money” concept is incredibly empowering and has become a driving force in my financial journey, reminding me that true wealth is about autonomy and liberation. What truly inspires me about J.L. Collins’s message is that it gives me hope that I can still accomplish financial independence even starting later in life at 39, and it empowers me to teach these vital principles to my 13-year-old daughter.
    I would love to receive an autographed copy of The Simple Path to Wealth (Revised & Expanded 2025 Edition).
    You are truly my hero. Thanks for all you have done for me.

    Reply

  44. Dan Murray says

    I agree with 95% of Mr Collin’s teachings. But, the 5% I disagree with are significant. Here’s my problem with his advice. It ignores the current reality. We can’t assume the next 30 years will be anything near a good as the last 30 years have been. Take $37 trillion in debt, continued fiscal irresponsibility at the Federal level, and steady inflation of the dollar. Sprinkle in a wanna-be autocrate who doesn’t seem to understand anything about economics and markets and you have the makings of a changing financial market that will be different than the recent past. Prudent diversification in hard assets seems like a good idea right now.

    Reply

  45. Dan Murray says

    Warren Buffet sees excessive risk. He has trimmed his exposure to equities and replaced that with treasury debt. That’s a start.

    Reply

  46. Ellen Louise Guardiano says

    I enjoy reading/re-reading your books, Mr. Collins –
    physical – both editions – 2016 and 2025 –
    and E-Books!
    As well as your posts here!
    And receiving your Weekly Newsletters!

    Thank you for advising/guiding us from 2011 on!

    BLESSINGS & GRATITUDE to you, your wife, Jane and your daughter Jessica!

    Reply

  47. Bruno Bontempi says

    From SPW second edition, page 202:
    “A little humility goes a long way in saving your ass and your cash.”
    I printed and framed it, after turning a few key concept words to all caps.

    Reply

  48. Ellen Louise Guardiano says

    I read, re-read and re-read repeatedly!

    ALL the above quotes I strongly endorse!
    Unable to ‘top’ any of them, as they are ALL PURE GOLD!

    JL Collins is a BLESSING to ALL,
    for those who wisely choose to heed his sage counsel!

    A role model in ALL aspects of how he conducts his/his family/friends/all who are fortunate enough to stumble upon his – wait for it – pun intended – ‘PATH’!

    GRATITUDE ABOUNDS, Mr. Collins!

    Reply

  49. Ellen Louise Guardiano says

    I read, re-read both the hardcover original and Revised 2025
    Edition and E-Book –
    “The Simple Path To Wealth,”
    as well as the “Pathfinders” E-Book!
    Repeatedly!
    As there is such wisdom,
    financial, yes!
    But life wisdom too!

    I enjoy your newsletters to, Mr. Collins!

    Thank you!

    Reply

  50. Grover Fulbright, Jr says

    My favorite quote: “Money can buy many things, but nothing more valuable than your freedom.”
    I was, for too many years, living paycheck to paycheck. This book gave me the motivation to get focused on building my savings, investments and having an actual plan. This gave me such a feeling of freedom, I could hardly believe it.

    Reply

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