In my last post, I outlined the different podcasts that I’ve used to help me in continuing to learn and advancing in different areas of life which are mostly what I now write about.
Today, I’d like to highlight a few other ways that I have taken it upon myself to give intentional time to personal development.
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss
There’s no greater way for us to invest in ourselves than with reading because it’s necessary for us to be a leader and pivotal for advancing in learning.
Former President Harry S. Truman said, “Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.”
“Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” - Harry S. Truman #nmwi Click To Tweet
If you aspire to leadership or to simply learn more to advance in any capacity, the quickest way to do so is being intentional about your reading habits.
Margaret Fuller exclaimed, “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.”
“Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” Margaret Fuller #nmwi Click To Tweet
If you don’t “have time” to read, then hopefully I can provide some helpful tips to help you overcome that thought with the tools I’ll share with you today that help me in this area.
My most favorite app and almost the most used one on my smartphone. A subscription to this service is definitely one of the best things I have invested in.
Each month you are able to download one book with your subscription, but can pay for more at any time. Like most services, they also have promotions and sales for you to get books cheaper than normal.
The best thing about audible is that you download the book so you can access without any connection. It’s great for your work/school commute, the gym, long trips, etc.
A few years ago I began using this service at a greater pace. I started with a couple books I found on sale for $1-$4.
Then I started following them on Twitter and paying a little closer attention to their sales and have increased my library here in similar fashion.
I’ve also paid attention to the social media accounts of authors whose books I enjoy or would like to read. Very frequently you can grab a book for under $5 in a 24-48 hr sale.
As previously mentioned, I listen to podcasts as often as possible in between the books I consume.
It’s a great way to learn in bite-sized portions if you don’t have a long attention span or if you’re limited with time. Don’t discount the value these provide and their increase in popularity is only going to see more and more pop up as time goes on.
This particular app I paid $4 for and it allows me to download multiple episodes at a time and for me, has an overall better layout than others I’ve tried on my Android device. I’m sure you can get it on an Apple device, but I’ve also heard iTunes works just as well.
I’m glad I found this site a few years ago. I know there are other self-learning sites that offer courses, but of the few I’ve tried, I’ve come back to Udemy every time.
Not only can you learn practically anything, at any time, at your own pace, but there are so many of the courses you can take for free! Additionally, I’m constantly receiving promo emails where most all courses are marked down to $10-$15.
At the end of each course, you earn a certificate and you can come back and take the course forever.
If you’re not already investing in yourself, then what are you waiting on?
Are you waiting on your day to magically provide you with more than 24 hours?
Are you waiting on someone to take on all of your responsibilities and free your time up?
Are you waiting on you to absorb new information in your sleep like a recording of a new language?
These things won’t happen by accident and you won’t see growth unless you put in the time.
So make it a point to give time and attention to the things that matter most and start with yourself. If you grow yourself, you can help grow others.
Are you ready to stop waiting and leave the “what if” behind?
What are your go-to methods for personal development when it comes to reading or courses? Comment below and share!
Since I’m into photography, I enjoy classes on Creative Live. They are not all photography classes but many other self-improvement areas.
I don’t have “Audible” but I do enjoy my Kindle. It allows me to ready practically anywhere without carrying a load of books.