In case you are wondering, this is not a blog post listing the top ten business books to read for the holidays. Nope, this post is different. It’s about the importance of stories and reading.
As an author, I am always asking people what books they like to read. With two new books slated for publication in 2018, I need to know my market.
I can peg a person’s response to their facial expression. It’s that frustrated look, “Why would I read a book now, I’m out of school.” Or “Oh, she’s going to recommend another boring business book. Ugh.” Insert eye rolling emoji.
The majority of the responses all include, “I don’t have time to read because…” We spend hundreds of hours each week reading blog posts, text messages, FB posts etc. Ironically, we read blog posts about which books successful people are reading.
The book list is unimportant.
What matters most is that these leaders schedule time to read.
The thought leaders, we admire, read a wide range of books including novels, history, biographies and business leadership. All books contain stories even non-fiction which highlights case studies. We remember stories, we relate to stories, and use stories to help us navigate our jobs, personal relationships, challenges, and events in our lives.
Without these stories, we have a limited mental library to retrieve examples for guidance. Since the beginning of mankind, we’ve used stories to build communities, pass down information, and form bonds needed for survival.
Today is no different. We need stories; we need this foundation. Purchasing a book for yourself and everyone on your holiday list is important.
Reading is the gateway to society. If a child does not read by the age of seven, they are at risk of missing the gateway. Once the opportunity passes, it is extremely difficult to gain access.
The ability read (insert assistive technology if needed to help with reading) is the second most important skill humans’ must possess. The ability to communicate is first.
As you build your holiday shopping list, take the time to visit your local bookstore or Amazon. Think about the stories you crave to read. What problem are you mentally seeking to solve? Go to the library; walk through the quiet aisles glancing at the titles. What book catches your eye?
Better yet, go to the children’s section look at the stories. Last month, I discovered while walking through Barnes and Noble – What Do You Do With An Idea by Kobi Yamada. I absolutely love the book and believe everyone should read it.
Books, regardless how you read them are important, they provide us with a rich depth of stories that we use daily to solve problems. Even non-fiction has a place because we gain knowledge and a different perspective.
Included in this post are images of the current books I am reading. I will be stopping by Half Price Books and Barnes & Noble to purchase gifts.
Remember – reading by the fireplace is a great way to unplug and enjoy the holidays!