You are the author of your own success. The key to achievement is the discovery that your unique gifts, abilities, and experiences can benefit others. To serve others is to find your place and your purpose. You can’t do that alone, you need to glean from the wisdom of others.
One way to do achieve this goal is through reading. Many individuals read either indiscriminately, or only out of necessity. However, purposeful reading will give you an edge on success, help you clarify your values, and help you find your place in today’s world.
Over the next several posts, I’ll share some thoughts on The Reader’s Edge that I believe will help you see the benefit of this discipline. Let’s begin with a few general guidelines:
Create a Reading Plan: Don’t read everything; you can’t anyway.Don’t read indiscriminately; there are some things you won’t want to read. Twice a year, I reevaluate my three-year reading plan. I add books that have been recommended to me, I remove books that I no longer want to read (or file their titles for a later date), I prioritize the list according to my interests, the world around me, my family needs, subject, etc.
Read a Good Book More Than Once: There are some books worth rereading. There are a few that I read every year; Some that I read through once a month; Some that I read through every few years. Take advantage of the wisdom that these books offer. Keep them close. They’re often deeper than you think. Your life experience will shape your future understanding, and a true classic is always relevant.
Read Consistently: For me, reading is a discipline. It is mental exercise. So I’ve made the commitment to read daily (I wish I could develop this discipline when it comes to exercise). I read books, magazines, newspapers, blogs, professional journals, etc. Anything that can open my mind to new ideas, put an old idea in a fresh light, or challenge the rigidity of my thinking.
Read in Stages: There are times when a particular subject, person, or issue interests you. Set aside a period of time (1 – 6 months), and read everything you can find on that topic. Immerse yourself in it! Allow yourself to become a self-proclaimed expert in your field of study. The rewards will be rich.
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