Books can be your best mentor. Here are some of my best mentors in life.
Here are some of the best non-fiction books I read, that changed the way I think about work and life.
It usually takes me a long time to read one book. I read every sentence, and sometimes write down quotes in my notes app. This helps me remember the most important points long after I finish reading it. It is these notes that make me think of books as mentors. It feels like the author is just chatting with me over coffee, sharing their best tips and reflections. Another favourite is to go on walks with my dog and listen to the audio version of the book. I especially love this when the author narrates the book themselves - their personality always shines through and there we are, walking while they’re sharing their life lessons.
I didn’t always like reading books. What I liked was the idea of reading books – and the knowledge and wisdom that came with it. I wanted the reward without putting in the effort and, needless to say, the reward never came.
This changed a few years after I graduated from university. Along with my diploma, what I received on graduation day was the freedom to read only what I wanted, when I wanted, only for the simple fact that it brought me pleasure.
Ten years later, reading books is one of my biggest hobbies. There is nothing better than curling on the couch with a fresh cup of coffee and a good book.
Books are teachers, travellers, scientists and artists. They inspire and expose you to new ideas that you wouldn’t otherwise access. They transport you all over the world and have the power to take you into the past and – sometimes – the future.
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