2019: Book #1
It’s 2019…life and work are in full swing, as is my reading plan for the new year.
Before discussing my first completed book of 2019, let me answer a few questions:
Why do I read so much?
First, I love to read. Learning and seeing the world through a new lens makes my heart happy.
Second, leaders are readers and I want to be the best leader I can be. Reading about leaders from the past and how they failed and succeeded can help me in the decisions I have to make. Books are a reminder that others have faced these types of decisions before and that I am not alone.
Third, it helps keep me close to God. Yes, the Lord uses books to change my heart—even those about Abraham Lincoln or FDR. How so? I see that God has all of history and we are all simply players on the stage. It’s comforting to know that He has all this in His hands and that He’s using us to bring His plan to pass. Also, it allows me—as it allows others— to see the flaws of historical leaders up close and personal. Those lessons force me to examine my own heart.
Finally, books become more like old friends. You go back to them time and again. You read the same book over and over because it offers insight. Our hearts need such personal reminders.
With that, let’s roll to the first book of 2019.
Seth Godin is a popular blogger, speaker, and author. His latest book, “This is Marketing: You Can’t Be Seen Until You Learn to See,” shows why he is so popular and is well worth your time.
A few noteworthy quotes from his book:
“Marketing is the generous act of helping others become who they seek to become.”
“What you say isn’t nearly as important as what others say about you.”
“Yes, you have a calling: to serve people in a way that they need (or want). The opportunity is for each of us to choose a path and follow that, not for your own benefit, but because what it can produce for others.”
Godin leaves you with one big question for your customers, listeners or donors.
Why does it matter to THEM?
Not to you. It isn’t about you.
But to them.
How is what you do a benefit to them?
How does it make them feel?
Does it help them become the person they desire to be?
That’s the magic of marketing.
Great book.
Well worth your time.
That’s book #1 for 2019.
51 more to go.
Remember, all leaders are readers.
If you want to be a better leader…be a reader.
#52in2019
