My grandmother was known for reading a book a day. I’m not exaggerating! As a matter of fact, she is famous in our family for reading all of the books in two libraries! She had the habit of waking at 4:00 in the morning to have quiet time to read. Grandma Esther loved to learn. Imagine what you could learn just by intentionally reserving time each day to read. I hope to instill this love of reading in my children as well.

Leadership expert, John C. Maxwell says, “Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” One of the outstanding leaders I know is Nate Parks. Whether he is taking his kids to an activity or waiting for the gas tank to fill, he always has a book with him. By having the reading material with him at all times, looking for chances to read a few more pages, Nate reads many books a year. Mrs. Klein, my daughter’s kindergarten teacher wisely said, “Reading is critical because in the first three years of school, one learns to read. After that, one reads to learn.”

Maybe getting up at 4:00 isn’t an option for you, but here are some tips to help you get some reading done.

• Keep a book with you whenever you can
• Read everywhere you can. This means on the bus, while waiting in line, or any time that you get a few minutes.
• Take a little time to read before bed, it can help you relax.
• Read different types of books. Mix it up.
• Learning how to speed read can be helpful but reading too fast can lead to decreased comprehension.