If you think you don't need to read: The average adult
reads fewer than two books a year. If you read a book a month, you are
automatically in the top 5% of the population when it comes to educating
yourself. Reading informational, educational, or inspirational books is one of
the easiest, least expensive ways to give yourself a competitive edge.
If you think you don't have time to read: No free time
to crack open a book? I have one word for you: AUDIO. Books on CD, books on
tape, books downloaded from places like audible.com, podcasts... you have lots of choices for listening to books. Borrow a few from the library,
download a book from the Internet, and load up your MP3 player. Listen away
while you're mowing the lawn, exercising, watching the kids' soccer practice,
or driving around town.
If you don't know what to read: If you don't know
where to start, choose one area you'd like to improve upon, whether it's public
speaking, networking, technical skills, or time management. Then head over to
Amazon.com and look at top-sellers in that field, or put out a call for
suggestions on your Twitter stream, Facebook page, or blog. Pick one and go. What are some of my recommendations? Check out my list of books you should read!
If you forget what you read: Even the most dedicated
readers can burn through books, then move on the next, only to forget what you
read in the first volume. While knowledge is great for knowledge's sake, it
really only becomes wisdom when you put it to use. By reflecting on what you
read and choosing one or two lessons to implement in your own life, you will
convert your knowledge to wisdom and improve your business. Think about joining
a business book club where you read a business-related book a month or quarter,
and discuss what you're learning. That will also help the lessons sink in.
There's a famous quote that
says that a year from now, you'll be exactly the same as you are now, except
for the people you meet and the books you read. Start now on your path to a
bigger and better you.
What are some of your recommendations for a great read this year?
8 comments:
I prefer to read print books (in my hands). However I just took a road trip and listened to my first "books on tape." It was a great way to spend the drive - listening & learning.
:)
I agree Debra. I much prefer to read print books. There's nothing like the smell and feel of a brand new book! I am considering trying my first audio book though. I'm glad you found it enjoyable. Maybe that will be the push I need to make the leap!
I love reading physical books - the feeling of paper in my hand.
I am reading two books right now - a historical book "Death of a President" by William Manchester and "Money Master the Game" by Tony Robbins
Dr. Lisa
I love historical books, Lisa. And of course anything by Tony Robbins has got to be good. I'm glad I am not the only one who reads more than one book at a time. I, too am reading two books. Kill The Elevator Speech by Felicia Slattery and The Likeability Factor by Tim Sanders.
I'd make this a "New Years Resolution" but that would doom it to failure. ;)
Seriously, we do best when we find something we REALLY want to know more about, then dive in. Thanks for this piece, Melodieann!
I may get hurt for saying this, but I hardly ever read a book. I love learning and I am all about reading in small pieces like blogs. I also love videos that teach. So as far as a book goes, I haven't been disciplined enough to dive in to it. But, I can see the results those who do read get from them. Great post Melodieann!
That's right Larry! No more resolutions! Let's make it a goal instead.
That's okay Jaye Carden. We still love you! The important thing is to keep learning. Books are only one tool. Blogs and videos are also great ways to learn.
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