Have you ever set a goal to read/listen to a book a month? Maybe you get through books quickly and go for 2 a month? [I’m talking non-fiction, learning related books as opposed to fiction].
We get so many great book recommendations from friends and mentors in the property investing community that it’s hard not to want to read everything.
I’ve always been a little envious of those who can read super fast as I’ve typically been a pretty slow reader. Looking back I realise that one of the reasons for this is a desire to go back over and really understand what I’ve read, and probably take some notes.
Since audible has come along it has helped many of us consume way more books than we previously thought possible. However, the challenge is it also means we go through a book so quickly that whilst we get a little entertainment, we can leave a lot of the true value from the book on the table.
Thankfully I have this niggly tendency, I referred to above, to want to understand what I choose to read to an implementable level. So whilst it slows me down it actually helps get the most out of the book. So when I heard the following 3 tips from Darren Hardy recently they really resonated with me. I take no credit for these (other than taking the time to share) but I keep them in mind to get the most out of my reading and thought others out there may appreciate them too.
TIP#1: READ WITH PURPOSE
When choosing a book, have a problem or key skill in mind that you are focused on mastering. Have a defined issue that needs solving then read with a mindset focused on finding those answers. You must then of course apply what you find out.
TIP #2: START WITH THE WHO
Instead of perusing the personal development section, find an expert in the area you want skill development in, then go deep with the content from that person – articles, books, videos etc
TIP #3: ACT NOW
Get out and do the things as soon as you have actionable advice. Act now and try it, review, try again and tweak things. Try to get good at the thing intentionally, push for excellence.
Can you see how if we apply this shift in approach to the books we read the outcome will be far greater?
One of the books we have really read with purpose and acted on this year is Profit First by Mike Michalowicz. If you’re interested, this will transform the way you handle your finances, both business and personal.
What books have made a big impact for you this year after reading with purpose and acting on what you’ve read?
Great tips 🙂
Thank you!
I’m a visual / kinaesthetic learner so while I love audible because it gives me chance to listen where I don’t have the time to read, I always then find myself wanting to then buy the book to highlight the advice & strategies I wanted to implement.
I’ve found it doesn’t pay to take notes whilst driving lol!
Hee hee, very true Katy. Thanks for your comment. Yes, I often buy the physical book after listening to one that I really want to study in depth. I did that with Demartini’s The Values Factor and about to do it with Profit First.