Learn the 7 Cures for a Lean Purse from The Richest Man in Babylon and apply timeless money lessons to master saving, spending, and investing.
The Seven Cures for a Lean Purse
When it comes to personal finance, few books have stood the test of time like The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason. Written in 1926, its wisdom still applies perfectly to our modern world of credit cards, online shopping, and investing apps.
This classic teaches financial principles through simple parables set in ancient Babylon. One of its most powerful sections are The Seven Cures for a Lean Purse. Let’s break them down and see how you can apply them to your own financial journey.
1. Start Thy Purse to Fattening
The first step is simple: pay yourself first.
Every time you earn, save at least 10% before you spend a single cent. Most people do the opposite—they pay bills, spend, and save “what’s left.” No surprise that there’s usually nothing left.
💡 Modern tip: Set up an automatic transfer so 10% of your paycheck goes into a separate savings or investment account. Treat it like a non-negotiable expense.
2. Control Thy Expenditures
Have you noticed how expenses always expand to match income? The second cure is about living below your means.
Ask yourself: do I really need this, or do I just want it? The key is creating a budget that covers necessities and allows enjoyment, while still leaving room for savings and investments.
💡 Friendly advice: Don’t cut all your pleasures. Instead, choose wisely—skip three impulse purchases this month and put that money toward your financial goals.
3. Make Thy Gold Multiply
Saving is the beginning, but growth comes from investing. Money sitting idle loses value due to inflation.
Think of your money as employees—send them out to work so they bring back more money.
💡 Practical example: If you invest $100 monthly into a low-cost index fund, in 20 years you could have tens of thousands saved, thanks to compound interest.
4. Guard Thy Treasures from Loss
This cure is all about protecting your hard-earned money.
Avoid risky “get-rich-quick” schemes and promises of high returns with no risk. The wealthy don’t gamble with their money—they invest with caution and research.
💡 Rule of thumb: Never invest in something you don’t understand.
5. Make of Thy Dwelling a Profitable Investment
The book emphasizes owning your home. Today, this doesn’t always mean rushing to buy property—it’s about making your living situation work for you financially.
💡 Modern perspective: If renting is cheaper and frees up more money for investing, that can also be wise. But when you buy, make sure it’s within your budget and adds value to your long-term stability.
6. Ensure a Future Income
One day, you won’t want—or be able—to work as much as you do now. This cure is about retirement planning.
Invest in pensions, retirement funds, or other long-term strategies that guarantee income when you’re older.
💡 Tip: The earlier you start, the less you need to invest monthly, thanks to compound growth.
7. Increase Thy Ability to Earn
Finally, never stop improving yourself. The more skills you have, the more opportunities you’ll create.
Whether it’s learning a new trade, improving digital skills, or simply reading more books, self-investment pays the best dividends.
💡 Encouragement: Pick one area this year—public speaking, coding, writing, or investing—and dedicate time to mastering it.
Final Thoughts on the Seven Cures
These seven steps are simple, but not always easy. The secret is consistency. Apply them month after month, and your financial life will transform.
Why This Book Still Matters Today
Even though The Richest Man in Babylon is nearly 100 years old, its advice is shockingly relevant. From budgeting to investing, its wisdom applies to anyone who wants to escape paycheck-to-paycheck living and start building wealth.
If you’re serious about improving your financial future, this book is a must-read.
👉 Get your copy of The Richest Man in Babylon on Amazon today and start applying these timeless laws of money.
So, that’s just a few of many lessons — but your journey doesn’t have to stop here. Every article on this blog is like a stepping stone toward financial confidence and freedom.
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