“Some books leave us free and some books make us free.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
While reading and success can seem like they are completely different, they are actually quite related. Many people who are considered ‘successful’ are known to be avid readers. So how are these two seemingly different things intertwined?
Reading a book is like listening to someone during a conversation. When we are listening to someone, we are giving them our attention and learning the story they have to share.
Some people read for fun, or to escape from reality by diving into the realm of fiction. Others use reading as a way to seek advice from the experts.
Either way, reading helps us become successful. No matter the reason for reading, we are gaining knowledge from the words on the page. We learn new words and are exposed to various different writing styles. Best of all, this can all happen from the words written by people who we have never even met, who live overseas, or who have already passed away. Books serve as a time capsule in which we can find their message and learn from it at any point in our lives. Books are a great investment, as they can contain extremely valuable messages presented at very small cost.
As a writer, reading is extremely important. It’s my way to learn from the those who have more experience than I do and to get inspiration on what to write about, and even how to live my life.
Some people find reading boring. If you see yourself in this group, try finding a book about something you are interested in. Give the book a fair chance and see if it brings joy to your life. You might not find every page fantastic, but we need to be able to read the pages in order to sift through the text and find the gold. The nuggets of inspiration and excitement make it all worthwhile. If you don’t feel like you have the time to read, try reading just a few pages each day. Even just 10 pages a day can add up over time.
If you are looking for some new reads, consider checking out some of my favorites.
Life’s Golden Ticket by Brendon Burchard
Motivational trainer Brendon writes a story about second chances. Not only does this book have a fun storyline, but it incorporates important life lessons, and makes the reader think about their own life. It’s a book that kept me entertained from beginning to end.
Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom
Have you ever had a mentor or someone who you went to for advice? While memoirs aren’t typically my style, this one is definitely an exception. Author Mitch Albom shares a story about an older man named Morrie, and the wise lessons he has to pass down. This tear-jerker will warm your heart, and inspire you to consider what’s really important in life.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This historical fiction novel shares the life of two sisters during World War II in France. Even if history is not one of your main interests, Hannah quickly gets the reader interested, wondering what will happen next. The special story in this book gives you a unique perspective on war, family, love, and resilience.
Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
In an era where we are surrounded by materialistic goods, Marie Kondo helps us take a look at this, and helps us filter out the excess clutter that typically brings us stress and dissatisfaction in order to bring room for happiness and meaning. It’ll make you reconsider what you think you know about tidying up, and reconsider what is really valuable in your life.
What’re some of your favorite books?
Let us know in the comments!
Andrew Rocha
Andrew writes for Successful Steps and strongly believes that life is full of lessons to be learned on a daily basis. His passion for personal development and success stems from the desire to be happy and make the most out of life.
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