All great leaders are voracious readers. Did you know that the average person reads only one book a year? And 60% of people who try to read barely make it through the first chapter! Great leaders on the other hand read four to five books a month. If you are a leader and not reading to gain new knowledge, you are falling short.
How do you learn and grow if you are not seeking new and relevant information? How can you become a great leader if you have never picked up a leadership book?
I have always been an avid reader. Mainly leadership, personal growth, and spiritual books. I love anything that helps me to gain a new perspective on leadership, human behavior, and how to shift my mindset to achieve my greatest potential.
When I read, I feel like I can take old ways of thinking and give them a new twist. Reading helps to stimulate my creativity and critical thinking. Every new author I experience offers a new point of view or idea I have never considered.
Did you know that avid readers are likely to have annual incomes 5x greater than those who do not read? Do I have your attention? May be worth your while to pick up a book or two.
I have never been able to understand those who say I am “too busy” to read. Or even worse, “I don’t like to read.” How do you continue to grow if you are not learning, open to new ideas, or willing to explore?
If you are not committed to investing in your own personal growth and development, how can you be a great leader? How can you expect to grow your business if you are not growing yourself? How can you lead your team to greatness if you are not at least willing to read a book?
I am passionate about personal growth and development because I know it works. If you are not growing, you are dying. Great leaders who are seeking new knowledge are gaining new skills and constantly refining current competencies. If you want to improve your existing position as a leader, I would highly encourage you to read more.
As you acquire new information use it for the benefit of others. As a leader, it is your responsibility to support others in their growth and development. Share your new knowledge.
Set a goal to make reading part of your everyday habits. I try to read at least 15-30 minutes each day. I am constantly researching and often have numerous books underway. I find reading a way to stay open-minded and receptive to new ideas and new ways of thinking.
The leaders who have had the most positive impact on my life are in constant search of new and relevant information. They are open to sharing their acquired knowledge to inspire, motivate and lead those around them.
If you are open to the idea of reading here are a few of my favorites books:
- Good to Great- Jim Collins
- Dare to Lead- Brene Brown
- Atomic Habits- James Clear
- Start With Why- Simon Simek
- Emotional Intelligence- Daniel Goleman
- Four Agreements- Don Miguel Ruiz
- Existential Kink- Carolyn Elliott
- Mindset- Carol Dweck, Ph.D
- The Universe has Your Back- Gabrielle Bernstein
- The Power of Now- Eckert Tolle
