I grew up loving to read. I remember being in elementary school reading tons of books so that I could take Advanced Reader quizzes and win Pizza Hut gift cards. Basic, I know. However, my love for food really helped me to solidify a hobby that still brings me great joy. I love how a good book can move you in ways unimaginable. I’ve probably learned more from reading than from both grade school and college. As I grew older, I began to read more self-help and business-related books to help me reach goals. I personally love memoirs because it helps me to see the bigger picture of success.
There are a variety of benefits from reading, including but not limited to: memory improvement, expanded vocabulary, knowledge, mental stimulation, better writing skills and stress reduction. Whether you’re reading to gain knowledge, learn a new skill, or as a form of escapism during this pandemic, it’s important that you try and grasp something from whatever you’re reading. I’ll list some tips below of some things that I personally do in hopes that it will help you on your reading journey!
Highlight and Take Notes
Whenever I’m reading, especially if it’s a self-help, memoir or business-related book, I try to take as many notes as possible. I personally hate writing in books that I own (unless it’s THAT good) so I will typically write notes in my phone, in my journal, put sticky notes on pages I want to come back to or take pictures of things that I want to share with others. If highlighting and making notes in the book is your thing then go for it! The most important thing to know is that the more connections you make between pieces of information in your brain, the better you’ll remember it. It also doesn’t hurt to make a note for yourself on why what you’ve highlighted is important and applicable to your business. It helps when you’re coming back to your notes and trying to remember why you highlighted it in the first place.
Try to Apply A Principle
There’s always going to be at least one thing you can take from a book and begin to apply it in your everyday life. Understand that growth doesn’t happen by itself, but you can grow faster if you apply the things you learn. After reading something ask yourself, “What’s the one thing I can apply to my life right now?” Even if that thing is as simple as taking a week to meditate on the book and what it means to you, do that! It also helps to read with others for accountability. If there are action items from the book you’ve read, it helps to have someone that understands and can do those things with you.
Reason for Reading, Season for Reading
What is it that you’re trying to achieve? Aim to read books that are going to help you get to where you want to be. I find it extremely helpful to read memoirs of people in the line of business I’m looking to enter. A lot of times within the memoir they will list additional books that helped them get to where they are (which I also try to read). Unless you’re someone that just loves reading for the fun of it, stick to books that will be beneficial to your journey. Also know that some of the books you read may not stick with you now, but you may find yourself connecting to it more later. A perfect example of this for me is The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo. When I first read the book in high school, I thought it was the dumbest, most confusing book ever. I’ve read the book about 4 times since then and each time I’m able to grasp something different from it. You may have a similar experience with a different book, but the point is, sometimes there’s a season for reading a book.
Books help us in so many ways to succeed as employees, entrepreneurs and people. Through reading you can develop new skills, find tips or strategies for your business or even inspiration. They provide us with a new way of thinking in order to develop skills. It is my hope that you will come across books to help you along the way to reach your goals!
Kici Cofield
Founder, @wellreadandfed