What I’ve Learned From Reading A Book Every Week For 5 Years

A couple of years back, I published an essay describing the method I used to read a book every week for a year. Today it dawned on me this was the fifth year I’ve kept up my habit.

Here are my most valuable lessons.

1. The Journey > The Outcome

No outcome is worth a journey you will detest. There are plenty of great goals. Pick one where the journey is at least as exciting as reaching the summit. Then invest deeply.

2. Your Habits Are Your Destiny

Who we are and what we achieve depends on the small habits we do daily. Your systems are much more important than your goals. It’s not only capital that benefits from compounding, but also your habits, relationships, and knowledge.

3. Optimists Create The Future

People don’t follow pessimists. There is no shortage of cynics and pessimists with self-fulfilling beliefs. Go ahead, solve a problem.

4. Health Before Wealth

By all means, make lots of money. But another deal isn’t worth it if it comes at the cost of your mental and physical health. So prioritize your well-being, take care of yourself and those you love.

5. Work Hard At Work Worth Doing With People You Love

Surround yourself with people who are happier, smarter, or more successful than you are. Then work together towards goals that put you in a state of flow. That’s bliss.