Seth Godin’s post on "How to write for a billionaire" provides this quote from News Corp CEO Rupert Murdoch. Maybe he said this between American Idol performances.
Wow!
Why We Write
"I have never thought of writing for reputation and honor. What I have in my heart must come out, that is why I compose."
-Ludwig Von Beethoven
I’m in Mr. Beethoven’s club.
Seth Godin has great post from yesterday titled "Do Business Books Work." He makes some excellent points about how we’ve (the business culture) all but abandon reading for learning and growth. I am always dismayed by this reality. Take a book like "Success Built To Last" and the gems of insight that are contained in the writing. How much would you have to pay these writers to dispense their knowledge in the flesh? A bunch! The book is selling for $16 on Amazon.
I think in many ways we’ve fallen into a longing to be entertained rather than be enlightened. Not every book is worth the "read". But many are and you’re missing out if you haven’t built a habit of reading.
Here’s a list of tips on building the habit of reading:
- Evaluate your daily, weekly and monthly schedule. After the review, substitute entertainment (movies, television, etc.) for reading a book that encourages you to grow.
- My blog has some books listed (see the right column) that have helped me grow…check those out.
- Don’t shy away from the upfront pain of building a new habit. Don’t give up!
- Read something specific to your needs (sales, God, cooking, engineering, etc.).