This series is an attempt to demystify the basic principles of Finance and Economics, in a manner that makes these both intelligible and useful to the common man (whether working or not) in managing their finances. While there are ample books and readings on the subject of finance and money management, they suffer from two key problems – they are either meant to be used in the academic world or classrooms, or they tend to cater to the needs of a particular kind of audience, for instance accountants, corporate managers and the like. Both these issues make such readings almost useless for the common man, who struggles month on month, in managing earnings, expenses and savings.

If it’s your money, it’s your choice!

For that matter, even homemakers, who may not be making money directly, have largely predetermined monthly cash flows, often in the form of pin money from the husband or other members of the family. This series can come in handy to them too, in helping them analyze the unique characteristics of their particular inflow-outflow situation and choosing a carefully planned middle path which can meet their demands for a certain minimum level of consumption, a decent percentage of saving and sense of security through insurance of life and property.

Another reason why something like money management needs to be spoken with greater fervor is the rise in the salaried middle classes in the last few decades. These men and women often find themselves loaded with cash typically at the start of each month, knowing little about how to plan its use. Most surprising is the fact that most people today do not even look at money or household management as something worthy of being known or practiced in a methodological fashion.

This results in either of the two situations month-on-month: we pat ourselves on the back each time we have managed to save accidentally or curse ourselves for burning out our cash reserves much before the next cash inflow is expected. What we don’t realize is that a careful understanding of patterns in our income-expenditure situation can not only help us get richer sooner but also provide us with the peace of mind that comes through self-knowledge and eliminating unnecessary financial uncertainty.

Just as my heart, this series goes out to all the women out there, who know not how endowed they are. Their sense of thrift, conservatism and ability to multi-task makes them world-class money managers, even within the confines of their comfortable homes.

I hope that the series, compiled carefully and in a manner that can appeal to the common man helps you plan your money better. Remember: this is not about wealth management or multiplication of money. It’s only about knowing what to do with your resources.

Remember: if it’s your money, it’s your choice!

Happy reading!