Table Of ContentThe Psychology of Wealth
The Psychology of Wealth
Understand Your Relationship with Money and
Achieve Prosperity
Charles Richards, Ph.D.
Copyright © 2012 by A Story That Must Be Told, Inc. All rights reserved.
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whatsoever whether such claim or cause arises in contract, tort or otherwise.
To my parents, Lewis Richards and Lydia H. Lockman, and my grandparents,
Guy and Rheba Hoffman, who provided the foundation on which I have been
blessed to rely and build
Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Golden Steps
CHAPTER 1
How Do We Define Wealth?
CHAPTER 2
The Evolution of Wealth
CHAPTER 3
Finding Your Dream
CHAPTER 4
Self-Esteem and Its Influence on Wealth
CHAPTER 5
The Stream vs. the Rock
CHAPTER 6
Value Is What You Get
CHAPTER 7
Living Consciously
CHAPTER 8
The Power of Giving Back
CHAPTER 9
I’m Going Through a Phase
CHAPTER 10
Painting a New Portrait of Prosperity
CHAPTER 11
Knowing Where to Plant Your Feet
CONCLUSION
The Whole Elephant
Notes
Book Club Questions
Index
Acknowledgments
When I set out to write this book, my intention was to help people develop a new
way of thinking about prosperity and thereby improve their lives, even in the
midst of an uncertain economy. In the process, I learned more than I could ever
have anticipated. As I met and talked with dozens of people to uncover just what
a psychology of wealth is, the richness of this topic unfolded. The knowledge,
understanding, and inspiration that I gained through listening to their stories and
gathering their insights are incalculable, and my gratitude is immense.
My most heartfelt gratitude goes to Katherine Hall, my senior editor, who led
the editing and research team. She gave so much of herself and remained in love
with the concept despite the long hours. Thanks also for the outstanding work of
Sarah Martini, who shepherded the project with dedication and cheerful care. I
owe much appreciation to Chris McKinley for his consultation and perspective
on the history of finance. Christine Robinson and Teresa Rousch assisted
skillfully with research and organization. Thank you to Rob Hall for his
contribution to the cover design and to Aimee Hall for her organizational skill.
John Scevola and his team provided essential marketing support. To all these
gifted individuals, I am grateful.
Working with the McGraw-Hill Professional team has been a great
experience. Special thanks to Senior Editor Donya Dickerson. My gratitude also
goes to Gary Krebs, vice president and publisher; Mary Glenn, associate
publisher; Ann Pryor, publicist; Zach Gajewski, development editor; Ruth W.
Mannino, EDP manager; Sara Hendricksen, marketing manager; and Tom Lau,
cover designer.
Many thanks to the folks at Planned Television Arts (PTA) for their savvy
wisdom. David Hahn, PTA managing director, was a pivotal player in shaping
the spirit of this book. Thank you, David, for helping to move this project in the
right direction. I’d also like to offer special thanks to Jared Sharpe, director, PTA
Finance and PTA Sports, and to Alexandra Kirsch, director, PTA Interactive.
Sarah Archer, who obtained many of the interviews recounted here, did a
spectacular job of drawing out substantive details. Joseph “Bruno” Pelle was a
quiet inspiration through the initial phases of our research efforts. My thanks to
Sarah and Bruno, and to Dan Nyberg and Scott Olson for their artistry.
I was privileged to have private interviews with two of the most brilliant
finance minds in America: Dr. Harold Black and Dr. Frederick Miller. My
gratitude goes to them and to Marcia Miller, Jeff Burch, Erin Wagner, and Lori
gratitude goes to them and to Marcia Miller, Jeff Burch, Erin Wagner, and Lori
Mabry.
Some of the most moving stories I have recounted in these pages are those of
Senator Leticia Van de Putte, Representative Johnny Shaw, Dennis Gardin, Joey
Wincek, Dr. Rickie Keys, and Tony and Mike Cupisz. From challenging
beginnings, these courageous people have created superb lives and have helped
others do the same. I thank each of them for having taught me through example
about the psychology of wealth.
Wholehearted thanks to everyone whose personal stories and insights
contributed to my understanding of the psychology of abundance and who made
me feel wealthier for the experience: former U.S. Representative J. C. Watts, Dr.
Michael Stern, Lennie Alzate, Bennie Taylor, Jane Pulkys, Denise Fast, Bill and
Deb Mann, Peachie Bailey, Anne Norton, Sammy Kicklighter, Joyce Shirley,
and Libby Fine. To honor their privacy, others are identified in these pages by
first name only. I thank them all.
There are people who simply stand out for their achievements. A special
thanks to Donald J. Trump, and to Stuart Johnson and Darren Hardy of
SUCCESS magazine, for their inspirational work and their dedication to helping
others find success. Thanks also to Leah McCann of the SUCCESS Foundation.
This book wouldn’t have come into being without Alden Butcher and Anne
Archer. Their insights are found on virtually every page, and I could not have
brought this book to fruition without them. Alden’s creative talents, patience,
and wisdom are always very much appreciated. Thanks to both of you for your
unfailing friendship, encouragement, and vision.
In addition, I would like to honor my friends, who have provided
unconditional caring and kindness at all times, including Barbara King, Matthew
and Deborah Mitchell, Jay Hare, Dr. Michael Stern, Christina Chomut, Harold
Ware, Tunde Baiyewu, Divina Infusino, Brian and Arielle Ford, Doc Lew
Childre, Deborah Rozman, Lisa Nelson, Linda Anderson, and many others. And,
as always, a special thanks for the support and inspiration of Joan and Harold
Klemp.
