100 Books: More Than A Number
This week I hit a milestone. I have read 100 unique books in 2023 so far. I’m proud of this number because of the growth it represents in me as a person. These are primarily books which were read for fun - so why is it worth a LinkedIn post if I’m not sharing key business learnings? I’m sharing because this number is an excuse to share three key things I’ve learned from reading this year:
Prioritization. For the last few years (since having kids), I have told myself I don’t have time to read. There is too much else to do as a working parent. However, this last year, as I evaluated what I want to do next for life and career prioritization, I decided to make reading a focus. Knowing that I’ve followed through and found time in the day - it shows how many things are possible when you prioritize.
Curiosity. Learning and engaging my brain (utilizing those ‘little grey cells’) makes me a happier person. Some learning is tied to business (the importance of accountability in The Five Dysfuctions of a Team) and some starts purely out of curiosity (reading about the life of Josephine Baker after reading WWII historical fiction novels and seeing her name several times) - but it all makes me a more well-rounded person asking questions and seeking answers.
Perseverance. I love the escape from reality in a good book, but I don’t always follow through if I don’t get that immediate fun. This year I’ve focused on taking time to read books that may not initially grab my attention but which have been recommended - or books that I have historically stopped reading because they make me think. It took me 6 weeks to listen to Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert (even though it’s a 5 hour listen) because I would stop and process. I used to think that meant don’t read this type of book -but I’m learning to take the time and persevere on value added reading. Reading and life isn’t a race - it’s a journey with plenty of fun moments and times to slow down and process.
Bonus Entry. I’ve also learned to say no. This ties into prioritization and perseverance - but deserves its own callout. I’ve checked out multiple books this year from the library which I thought sounded good, but then I found myself dragging through it - or that it made me unhappy. I’ve learned to acknowledge books (and other things) in my life that aren’t helping me be a better person and send them back and let them go.
