Reading

What is the one talent that you have developed during your fellowship period? Is it cooking, hiking, biking, dancing, arts, reading, etc? One of the millionaire sayings is, “Leaders read”. Reading is not only information gathering but also helps one expand their worldview, relax after a long day and improve vocabulary. According to research, below are some of the important reasons why we should all develop the habit/ hobby/ talent of reading:
• Reading is an essential life skill, for example reading the instructions on prescription drugs can prevent drug mis-use.
• Reading is essential in finding good jobs or opportunities for livelihood. The habit of reading helps one become more knowledgeable about particular subject matter. It also helps them jobs where they have to prepare/review numerous reports/ memos.
• The mind is a muscle which is developed through reading. Comprehension/ understanding helps the mind grow its ability and improves language skills. The language skill is also sharpened and enhances listening- everyone wants to talk, but few really listen. The developed brain, helps one focus on what another is communicating.
• Reading is a way to discover new things. We currently live in a world where there is an overflow of information through the internet and other avenues, and reading still remains the most effective way to take advantage of this information.
• Creativity has been encouraged as one of the key problem solving skills in view of today’s many world problems. Reading stimulates imagination and creativity, as one plays out the content of what they are reading in their minds.
• Reading is key in developing a good self-image – experts say.
• Reading improves spelling ability and enriches ones vocabulary, improving their chances of becoming excellent public speakers. Reading new words puts them into ones memory for later use. Seeing how words are used in a different context gives a better understanding of the word usage and definitions as opposed to only referencing the dictionary.
• There is an old saying, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” Ideas written down have changed the destiny of men and nations for better or worse. The flow of ideas cannot be stopped. We need to read and research to build on the good ideas and expose the bad ideas before they bring destruction. Only by reading can we be armed in this never-ending, life-and-death struggle.
• The fact of the power of written ideas communicated through reading is a foundational reason why some governments oppose free and honest communication. Illiterate people are easier to control and manipulate. They cannot do their own research and thinking. They must rely on what they are told and how their emotions are swayed. There is a good possibility that this is one of the main reasons phonics was removed from the schools about 100 years ago.
• Finally, why is reading important? Reading is important because words – spoken and written – are the building blocks of life. You are, right now, the result of words that you have heard or read AND believed about yourself. What you become in the future will depend on the words you believe about yourself now. People, families, relationships, and even nations are built from words.
There are so many sources to get books from- both electronic and hard copy books, examples include the kindle app, amazon, libraries, friends, the list is endless. I will recommend for a start:
• http://www.allyoucanbooks.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIte3Zze2r3gIVzuDVCh0vRwQXEAEYASAAEgI_s_D_BwE
• https://www.thriftbooks.com/
• the Kindle app/ Amazon books.
Getting reading- develop the Leader in you.