Aside from the fact that reading is my guilty pleasure, I thought I’d share a few insights on why I now set annual reading goals and you should too! Let me set the stage, I developed my passion for reading as a kid obsessing over comic books. My family will tell you, growing up I was a comic book fanatic or geek. I once even got into a school yard fight with a friend that stole one of my favorite titles The Death of Captain Marvel glad we can all laugh about that now, sheesh!
I obsessed over the intricate details of each book; truth is every word seemed to jump off each page granting me the ability to tap a great certain creative energy that only increased as I got older. Although, my reading tastes have changed over the years it’s still a passion.
In 2013, I decided to take a speed reading class gifted to me by US Memory Champion Ron White (brain athlete.com). I wanted to increase my reading speed and comprehension and what happened next blew me away. I felt the immediate results from the program, and decided to set a goal to read 50 business books in a year. Although, I fell short of my goal (I only finished 27 books). I really didn’t feel bad about my first reading goal attempt.
Especially, since realizing this very startling fact!
Did you know?
There are several research studies that highlight the following fact “The average American reads less than one book per year, 60% of which only get through the first chapter”.
1. Holy Cow, If the Average American reads less than one book per year, if you only read two books your ahead of the game.
2. Throughout history all great leaders have had one thing in common they are voracious readers: Thomas Jefferson, Dr. Maya Angleou, Michelangelo, Bill Cosby, and Abraham Lincoln to name a few.
3. Reading can help you make tons of money: The average CEO reads 4-5 books per month and studies show active readers are likely to have annual incomes more than 5x greater than those who spend little to no time reading.
4. Stressed Out, pick up a book and read! – Reading reduces stress and improves brain function Research conducted in 2009 at Mindlab International at the University of Sussex showed that reading was the most effective way to overcome stress, beating out old favorites such as listening to music, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee and even taking a walk
5. Reading is fun, and you can learn a lot! Fact is good leaders are fueled by a constant desire to learn, grow and share what they’ve learned. Are you a good leader?
What business books are you currently reading? Post a comment, I would love to know!
Check out this infographic from Koozai, a UK-based digital marketing company, for some help picking your next business read.
3 Martini Lunches 