What Did School Teach You About Money?

Monopoly board game photo

In a world where financial literacy is becoming increasingly essential, it’s disheartening to realize that schools often neglect to teach students about money. This article delves into a revealing video, exploring the missing lessons on money in schools settings and the profound impact it has on individuals. From the perspective of Robert Kiyosaki, the author of the renowned book “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” we uncover the critical lessons schools fail to impart and the alternative path to financial enlightenment.

The Missing Subject

At the tender age of nine, Robert Kiyosaki realized the gaping hole in his education when he asked his teacher about learning money-related topics. To his surprise, he discovered that schools simply did not teach the subject of money. This disheartening response led him on a lifelong quest to unravel the secrets of financial success.

The Tale of Two Cultures

Kiyosaki’s experience highlighted the contrasting ideologies between the academic world and the capitalist realm. His “rich dad” mentor, a staunch advocate of entrepreneurship and financial independence, emphasized the importance of financial statements and asset acquisition. In contrast, his “poor dad,” an academic elite, focused solely on traditional education and viewed money with suspicion.

The Birth of “Rich Dad Poor Dad”

Motivated by his desire to bridge this knowledge gap, Kiyosaki penned “Rich Dad Poor Dad” in 1997. This self-published book became a global phenomenon, resonating with individuals from various backgrounds. It shattered the misconception that saving money alone guarantees wealth and challenged the notion that working for money is the only path to success.

The Power of the Cashflow Game

Seeking an engaging and effective tool to teach financial literacy, Kiyosaki and his partner developed the Cashflow board game. Through the game’s immersive experience, players unknowingly absorb valuable financial concepts and strategies. The game’s success led to the establishment of thousands of Cashflow clubs worldwide, fostering a culture of learning, cooperation, and entrepreneurship.

Elevating Financial Well-being

The Rich Dad Company’s mission revolves around elevating the financial well-being of humanity. By simplifying financial education and infusing it with fun and real-life applications, they aim to empower individuals to take control of their financial futures. With the support of real teachers and a cooperative learning environment, the company endeavors to close the financial knowledge gap.

The Oprah Effect and Beyond

The Oprah Winfrey Show’s endorsement of Kiyosaki’s teachings catapulted his message to a broader audience. Subsequently, the realization that the middle class is shrinking and traditional job security is diminishing fueled Kiyosaki’s determination to change people’s financial mindsets. Rather than offering temporary solutions, such as giving people fish, he advocates for teaching them how to fish—fostering entrepreneurship and creating lasting prosperity.

Why Games Make Excellent Teachers

Drawing from his own experience playing Monopoly with his rich dad, Kiyosaki emphasizes the power of games as effective teaching tools. Games engage multiple intelligences, including the mind, emotions, physicality, and spirituality. Through games like Cashflow, financial concepts are learned experientially, enabling players to grasp the significance of financial statements and assets.

Adapting to an Evolving Landscape

In an era dominated by artificial intelligence and technological advancements, job security is uncertain. Kiyosaki acknowledges that low-skilled repetitive jobs can be automated, leading to increased unemployment. As a result, financial education becomes paramount in equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a changing economy.

Conclusion

Schools have long neglected to teach essential financial concepts, leaving many individuals ill-prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape. Through the efforts of pioneers like Robert Kiyosaki and the Rich Dad Company, a shift is occurring. Financial education is becoming more accessible through alternative means such as books, games, and financial literacy programs. The focus is on empowering individuals to take control of their financial destinies and think like entrepreneurs.

It is crucial to recognize that what worked for previous generations may not be applicable in today’s rapidly changing world. Traditional job security is no longer guaranteed, and individuals must adapt to the evolving landscape. By increasing financial intelligence and embracing entrepreneurship, people can create their own opportunities and shape their financial futures.

The call to action is clear. It is time to challenge the outdated notion that schools are solely responsible for teaching about money. Individuals must take ownership of their financial education and seek out resources and opportunities to learn and grow. Joining a Cashflow club, reading financial literature, attending workshops, and exploring online courses are just a few avenues to expand one’s financial knowledge.

By fostering a culture of learning, cooperation, and respect, individuals can come together to share their experiences and insights. Financial education should be a collaborative effort, where individuals learn from each other and support one another’s growth. Whether one is rich or poor, educated or not, the desire to learn and improve should be celebrated.

In conclusion, the video sheds light on the disheartening reality that schools often neglect to teach vital money management skills. However, it also presents an opportunity for individuals to take control of their financial destinies. Through books like “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” the Cashflow game, and the formation of Cashflow clubs, financial education is being made accessible and enjoyable. It is time to embrace the entrepreneurial mindset, increase financial intelligence, and actively seek out resources that will empower us to thrive in the ever-changing world of money. Let us break free from the limitations of the past and create a brighter financial future for ourselves and generations to come.

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