In my new book, The Four Minute Retirement Plan, I wrote: "Optimism is essential for any major achievement. We must believe a goal is possible, or it won't be. Therefore the first and most important step in many endeavors is to simply convince ourselves that it is possible, and that our efforts will be rewarded."

When I was in 2nd grade, I had a teacher named Mr. Margulies who wrote some really kind feedback about one of my stories and future potential as a writer. I couldn’t spell very well at the time, but he could tell I had an imagination and drive. His encouragement made me optimistic I could become a quality writer someday. I saved his comments he wrote in my notebook 37 years ago, because that little message he took a minute to write had a special impact on me that has compounded over the years.

Today, I’m proud to announce The Four Minute Retirement Plan just ranked as the #1 bestselling book on Amazon for Retirement Planning, Money Management, and Personal Finance!

Lesson: Encouragement from the right person at the right time can pay huge dividends. Thank you for helping me be optimistic Mr. Margulies, wherever you are today.