Wednesday, December 28, 2016

The Path to Success in 2017: Reading.

As the new year dawns, many, including myself are brainstorming areas for improvement in 2017. As I have spent time thinking about areas I would like to grow, I have not given much consideration to how I will get 'there.'

I read a fascinating article yesterday on successful people and their respective reading habits. The article talked about Warren Buffet. WB said he will read for about 80% of his day. Many times during his life, he would read anywhere from 600-1000 pages a day. Similar to Warren Buffet, Bill Gates is an avid reader. He regularly sets a goal to read 50 books a year.

I spent the better part of the day reflecting on this. I have always enjoyed reading. And, I do read everyday. Am I reading enough? In comparison to the aforementioned, no. Not even close. I thoroughly enjoy watching sporting events. I won't think twice about watching the Steeler game for 3 hours at a time. Not sure I remember the last time I read for 3 hours at a time.

Yet, as I think of the areas in my life I want to grow, I wholeheartedly believe reading is an avenue to get there.

So, as you prepare for the start of a new year, I challenge you with this: make growth in your reading habits a priority. Put down social media. Pick up a book - or a magazine. Find something to read that will make you grow. In turn, take time to reflect on how much you have grown- and read.

Here's to a great year of reading and growing...

"Being an avid reader gives you a strategic advantage in life. It improves your thinking, relational skills, and more. But you can leverage that advantage by reading books that stimulate personal improvement."- Michael Hyatt

"You stay teachable most by reading books. By reading what other people went through." 
— Retired Marine General James Mattis