It is not our abilities that show who we truly are. It is our choices. If you are not improving, you are declining. You cannot learn if you think you already know. The 21st-century has become an age of rapid change, innovation, disruption and new ways of thinking, doing, and being.
There is no better time to be exceptional in your craft and no worse time to be mediocre. In this constant stream of information and connectivity finding quality time to unplug and engage in deep thinking, learning and reflection in solitude have never been more imperative in our growth, discovery, and mastery of self.
We must prioritize our lives around creating a “21st-century mindset.” The daily challenge becomes learning how to transfer knowledge into wisdom. There is a huge difference between information and knowledge. We must focus relentlessly on knowledge, remaining receptive and open every day to ushering in intellectual pursuits that transform problems into opportunities.
Reading is a daily practice I hold dear to my heart. Reading does not just have a role in my life. Reading is my life. Every book I have read has taken me on a journey of growth and awareness. The unique opportunity to discover endless possibilities lies in the power of books. Reading has allowed me to use the eyes and mind in a totally new, expansive and creative manner.
May the following twenty book habits I incorporate in my daily living facilitate in you discovering or rediscovering the real you while exploring the unactivated reservoirs of your greatest and divine potential.
1. Always carry a book with you.
2. Always carry a notebook and pen with you.
3. Segment reading into four books at a time.
4. Underline, write notes, draw and Google.
5. Make reading a daily priority. Schedule “reading time” every day for at least three hours.
6. Divide reading opportunities into books and articles.
7. Guard against acquiring bad reading habits.
8. Quote from books.
9. Recommend and share books.
10. Give away eight to ten books a month.
11. Watch “C-SPAN Booknotes” regularly on Saturday and Sunday.
12. Keep a stack of “unread books” to intimidate and inspire me.
13. Transfer my notes, quotes, analysis, commentary and targeted information from books into my learning and knowledge journals.
14. Visit a bookstore at least twice a week.
15. Take personal responsibility to transfer information into knowledge and knowledge into growth.
16. Create a Google search research list of people, words, concepts, principles, themes, and theories.
17. Consume as much information and knowledge as possible.
18. Share information, knowledge, and insights with others.
19. Remain in constant search of new books and subject matters to read and explore.
20. End every day by asking myself what did I learn and discover today from the books and articles I read?
