Daily Leadership Thought #168 – Reading IS Fundamental
What are you reading?
It often surprises me that many professionals I meet say they have no time to read. I cannot imagine a life where reading is not a big part of my routine. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, reading always broadens the mind. It allows your imagination to wander and lets your brain recharge. Reading often introduces you to new information and perspectives you wouldn’t have come across otherwise. Your vocabulary grows when you read, and your ability to communicate improves. There is no downside to spending time reading, but you are at a disadvantage in life if you are not well-read.
Every professional should allocate some time to reading journals and other publications focused on their industry or field of expertise. It doesn’t have to be an inordinate amount of time. Just a few articles per week can be sufficient. It is also important to stay informed about current events and world news, as we all live in an interconnected world and need to be aware of what is happening. Unfortunately, TV news has become so dumbed down and sensationalized these days that you need to look to well-respected newspapers and magazines to find any real information worth knowing. It is also becoming increasingly difficult to get an objective opinion when you turn on the radio or television. Be wary of only listening to sources of information that simply validate your current point of view!
Reading good books of fiction and poetry is equally important to personal development. I regularly revisit some of the classic pieces of literature because they offer timeless insight and perspective on the human condition. It was one thing to be forced to do this when we were young in school. It is quite another experience to read these books as adults and by choice. I also enjoy discovering new authors who offer a unique perspective on things and bring their own artistic viewpoint to current events or past historical periods.
You shouldn’t view reading as work. If it doesn’t come naturally, start small and avoid pushing yourself too hard too soon. The good news is that your reading capability will develop like a muscle, and it will only get easier with practice and time. You can also listen to audiobooks. Additionally, reading doesn’t have to be expensive. Your local library, discount and used bookstores, and the internet offer a wide range of options to suit nearly every interest. There is no good excuse not to read. Sadly, if you don’t read, your brain and mind will atrophy, and you will fall behind. Your life will be harder than it needs to be because of what you don’t know.
Related articles
- Career Center: Essential Reading for the Summer Associate (Because You Don’t Read Enough Already) (abovethelaw.com)
- Literacy: a fundamental life-skill (unicef.org.au)
- Reading Promotes Leadership Skills – Even in a Digital World (mediatechparenting.net)
- Literacy Tip: Reading Aloud to Your Child (literacyforalifetime.wordpress.com)
