A Tactical Approach to Reading More Profitably

I don’t have time to prove this to you. If you don’t already understand it, don’t bother to read on. You’re a goner.

What I don’t have time to prove is the title of this essay: The idea that when it comes to having the career you want to have, there is nothing more important than reading.

I don’t care how smart or ambitious you are. Or whom you know. Or how hard you are willing to work. Unless you are prepared to spend an average of at least two hours every day reading and self-help books, you will never – NEVER – rise to the top of the field.

Yes, you can punch out an ordinary career with some exciting ups that result partly from relentless effort, partly from beating up on people, and mostly from luck. But business has never been more competitive. And information has never traveled so fast. If you don’t read – intelligently and constantly – you will not be able to compete at the highest levels.