The Most Expensive Thing I Ever Bought Cost Me $25 – Here is how!

Daily writing prompt

Name the most expensive personal item you’ve ever purchased (not your home or car).

No, it’s not a designer watch.
Not a new gadget.

It’s a book — The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene.

I know what you’re thinking — “That’s < 30 Dollars”
But trust me, it’s the most expensive purchase I’ve ever made. Not because of the price tag, but because of the price of the lessons inside.

How It Happened

I had just moved to Canada, working three shifts back-to-back with barely two hours between them. Exhausted, hungry, half-awake; I found myself wandering downtown Toronto one early morning after a night shift.

I ended up near the John P. Robarts Research Library at the University of Toronto. There was a small old-book sale happening, but nothing there grabbed me. Most were academic, heavy reads.

So I decided to walk over to Indigo.

I was scrolling through shelves. I aimlessly flipped covers. Then, I saw it. It was that famous and infamous red-and-gold book. Everyone either praises or hates it: The 48 Laws of Power.

Something about it hit me. Maybe it was exhaustion, maybe instinct — but I knew I had to buy it.

Why It Changed Me

Let’s be honest — in this world, just being good, kind, and honest isn’t enough. You can be pure-hearted and still get crushed by people who play smarter, louder, or colder.

That’s where this book hit home.

I didn’t read it to “gain power” over others. I read it to protect my peace. I read it to understand human nature. I also read it to see the politics that exist quietly behind every smile at work. They are present at home and among friends.
It taught me that power isn’t evil — it’s awareness.
And awareness, in this world, is survival.

So Yes — $25 Is Expensive

Because the real cost of this book isn’t money.
It’s the reflection.

It’s learning that protecting yourself doesn’t make you ruthless — it makes you wise.

So yes, The 48 Laws of Power is the most expensive item I’ve ever bought.
And probably the most valuable too. I’ve re-read it many times!

Check out his videos here – @RoberGreene

Thanks for reading. If you enjoyed this one, check out my other posts on self-growth, health, wellness, and mindset!