There are a couple of indications that things are not running as I would like in my professional life. One of them is the amount of books that are sitting on my to read shelf. I love reading on a variety of subjects. I also love to read a good novel as well. A long time ago I decided only to buy books if there is a reasonable chance that I will read them within the next 6 months.
When I get new books I put them on a special shelf. I have dedicated one shelf of my book closet to books I want to read. I got this from readingThe Little Guide to Your Well-Read Life by Steve Leveen. He also has one shelf dedicated to books he wants to read. And here is my catch, I now have more books that I want to read then there is room on that shelf. And that’s when I know there is something wrong, professionaly.
I’m not sure what’s wrong right now, only that I take less time to read than I used to, say 6 months ago. Reading for me is a way to grow, to break barriers, to learn new things and change the way I look at things. Having a to read shelf is not threathening. It doesn’t make me feel guilty but this shelf is a constant reminder of new things to discover. A gentle reminder of the wonder of reading and learning.
april 11th, 2009 at 22:22
I have a “To Read” section, too (only it’s about six shelves’ worth of books!). I also have been busier lately and not reading as much, but I found that as soon as I separated out the books I haven’t yet read, it was easier to walk past the shelf and grab a book to read a chapter or two. I’ve read more books in March than I had in the six months prior.
april 16th, 2009 at 11:36
Might I suggest Leo’s Zen To Done…Its a improvement on GTD. There are couple of good ideas in there.
mei 6th, 2009 at 08:26
this is what I do to read up the so many books I end up buying – I keep a book accessible everywhere. There is one on the sidetable in my living room, next to my bedside, in my office bag, and even the office drawer. And the ultimate book-shelf is on my desk at home where I look only if I am bored/finished with the current list.
this way I have something to read whenever I have the time, it’s accessible and also I am not reading just one book at a time – which keeps me fresh.
maart 5th, 2010 at 15:54
Pretty cool post – raises some interesting points for debate. I just stumbled upon your blog this morning and wanted to say that I have really liked browsing some of the posts. Anyways, I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope to read more very soon!