Reading on Purpose again - Lessons Learned

I need to be the first to admit I am not the greatest reader, the fastest reader, or consistently retain all I read.  I am however passionate about reading and passing on my love for literature to others.

Reading in Jamaica WOLBI March Missions 2008

Of all things, I discovered in a book the following anecdote.  A famous magician was once asked, "How do you keep your incredible illusions a secret." "That's easy," came the reply, "I write them in books!"

Don't take the chance of missing out on all life has to offer, Read on Purpose!

Here are some of the things I've learned over the years:

     1. Set a goal.   Each year I set a goal for the number of books I read to always push myself to read more.  Start small.  One book per month and choosing smaller-ish books to get started is reasonable for most people I've talked to.  As an aside, I also track magazines and booklets that I read and allow every five magazines to equal one book in the count (see #2).

     2. Keep track of what you are reading.  Since finishing college I have kept track of the books I have read in a notebook.  This allows me to not only keep count of how many books I've read for my yearly goals but it also lets me ponder whether I am balanced in my reading ie. too much fiction, etc.

     3. Keep a highlighter and writing utensil close.  Always mark up books you read (as long as they are yours of course).  I know for some of you, this is a major stumbling block but hear me out.  As a speaker/teacher I am constantly looking for illustrations, quotes, and solid material to encourage and educate others.  Often I remember that there is something great in a particular book but I just can't seem to find it.  I don't know about you but I just don't have time to re-read everything everytime I need a piece of data.  UNLESS, of course, I marked the book and the content is easy to find.  I always keep a mechanical pencil and highlighter handy and am very free to dog-ear pages or sticky note an important page.  Let the research and reading you've done last you a life-time by developing your own system of re-tracing that 'nugget' of wisdom.  Just give it a try!  Close your eyes if you have to the first time you deface the page but release your inhibitions and just go for it!


Also see the Benefits of Reading on Purpose

Or a great Guest Post on Michael Hyatt's blog 5 Ways to Make More Time to Read