Short Summary
Robert Kiyosaki is a renowned American entrepreneur, businessman, and author, best known for his book "Rich Dad Poor Dad." His work focuses on financial education, aiming to change people's perceptions of money and investment. Kiyosaki's innovative approach to personal finance has inspired millions worldwide, making him a pivotal figure in financial literacy and self-help education.
Early Life & Education
Born on April 8, 1947, in Hilo, Hawaii, Robert Kiyosaki grew up in a family of educators. His father, Ralph H. Kiyosaki, was an academic and inspiration for the "Poor Dad" character in his famous book. Kiyosaki attended Hilo High School and later graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in 1969. He served as a helicopter gunship pilot during the Vietnam War, which instilled in him a sense of discipline and leadership. His early life experiences with his "Rich Dad," the father of his best friend, influenced his understanding of wealth and entrepreneurship.
Career Highlights
After his military service, Kiyosaki embarked on a varied career that included working as a salesman for Xerox and founding a company that brought the first nylon and Velcro "surfer" wallets to market. However, it was his foray into financial education that marked the turning point in his career. In 1997, he published "Rich Dad Poor Dad," which became a bestseller and established his reputation as a financial guru. Kiyosaki subsequently authored numerous books and developed financial board games like "CASHFLOW" to educate people on financial management and investing.
Major Achievements
- Author of "Rich Dad Poor Dad," the best-selling personal finance book that has sold over 32 million copies worldwide.
- Creator of the "CASHFLOW" board game, designed to teach financial literacy through experiential learning.
- Founded the Rich Dad Company, which offers financial and business education through books, games, and seminars.
- Published a series of books under the "Rich Dad" brand, expanding his influence in financial education.
Famous Quotes
- "The single most powerful asset we all have is our mind. If it is trained well, it can create enormous wealth."
- "It's not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for."
Interesting Facts
- Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad Poor Dad" initially faced multiple rejections from publishers before becoming a self-published sensation.
- He has appeared on various television shows, including "Oprah," to discuss financial literacy.
- Kiyosaki served as a Marine Corps helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War.
- He advocates for financial education to be included in standard school curriculums.
- Kiyosaki's financial philosophy emphasizes the importance of investing in assets that generate cash flow.
Legacy / Influence
Robert Kiyosaki's influence extends beyond his best-selling books. He has fundamentally changed how people view personal finance, advocating for financial independence through investing, real estate, and entrepreneurship. His teachings have shaped the lives of countless individuals seeking financial literacy and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on how financial education is approached globally.
FAQ
Q: Why is Robert Kiyosaki famous?
A: He is famous for his book "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and his contributions to financial education.
Q: What is "Rich Dad Poor Dad" about?
A: It contrasts the financial philosophies of his two father figures, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and independence.
Q: What is the "CASHFLOW" game?
A: It is an educational board game designed by Kiyosaki to teach financial literacy and investment skills.
Q: Did Robert Kiyosaki serve in the military?
A: Yes, he served as a helicopter pilot in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
