We all talk about the importance of writing and blogging – the benefits it can have for you as an individual as well as the perks it can generate a business. Blogging provides a gateway, and entrance for your readers, consumers, and clients into the real you – the individual behind the words and the face behind the company. If you haven’t tapped into the power of blogging and what it can do for you and your business…you’re missing out.
But this article isn’t a plea for you to get out there and start blogging – but rather, an advocacy for something that’s even more important. READING.
In an online world where everyone is talking, where everyone is shooting ideas back and forth, debating, and questioning one another (nothing wrong with any of these – healthy debate and conversation is what makes us grow) – we often forget the power of silence. Of sitting back and listening. Of simply reading what other people have to say, asborbing knowledge from every angle. Here are three reasons why you should be reading TEN times more than writing…
Reading provides inspiration
If you are ever at a loss for words, every wondering what to say and how to say it – stop forcing yourself to write, close your notebook or Word Document and go read. Go read blogs – unplug from the Internet and go read a book, go somewhere without distractions and involve your attention 100% in what you’re reading. If I am ever at a loss for words, reading almost ALWAYS gives me a push in the right direction and rekindles my writing flame.
Reading makes you smarter
Seriously, how do we become smarter? How do we learn more? Through experience, and by surrounding ourselves with people who are smarter than us (and there are people out there who are smarter than you and me, and probably people who are out there smarter than them). By reading, you tap into a new knowledge base you never new existed, you walk away with newfound inspiration, and you add credibility to what YOU have to say when you can cite other specific examples and have data and evidence to back up your claims.
Saying less, but knowing WHEN to say it, leaves an impact
Engaging and being active in the online space is extremely important, but as a wise friend recently said, there is beauty in the “silence between the notes“. In short, you have to know when to speak, and when the right thing to do is sit back and listen. There is real power in listening, staying quiet, then knowing WHEN to “attack” – when to engage and interact with someone. Spend more time reading and learning, and a little less time talking.
Matt Cheuvront is the mastermind behind Life Without Pants. Take the next step by saying hello on Twitter and subscribing to his blog today!
Tags: matt cheruvont, reading, Social Media, Strategy, the right way
Very good post. I’m a big fan of reading and feel that not only does it inspire, but it helps you focus, grow, and definitely increases your intelligence. There have been many times where I’m either loss for words or not feeling motivated to do anything. I have a book for almost everything I’m trying to achieve in life and more. When I notice that I’m starting to beat myself up due to a lack of motivation, I sit down and grab a book. Reading is my way of meditating. I couldn’t agree more with you that people need to stop talking and pick up something to read.
Right on Patrice. Reading is where I find solace – whether books are blogs, there is a lot to be said for putting the pen down, listening and reading – absorbing the knowledge around you. Thanks for the comment!