The Intentional Reader (Part 2) Benefits to Reading

In my previous post, The Intentional Reader (Part 1), I shared the approach that I use to read more books.

In this post I will share the benefits I receive by being intentional about reading.

“Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.”
– Harry S. Truman

Benefits Received by Being an intentional reader

1. Relieves stress: I love getting lost in a good book.  When I am able to lose track of time or look forward to reading, it helps the stress of life and ministry melt away.  If a book doesn’t do that for me, I usually move on to another book.
2. Reading fills the well: Ministry requires a lot.  I’m intentional about making regular deposits so that I never find myself in a place where I have nothing left to draw from.  The fuller I maintain my well the more inspired, creative, insightful my ideas and ministry application is.
3. Greater effectiveness as a leader:  Reading increases my vocabulary, makes me more articulate and helps me communicate clearer.  Most leadership issues are usually a result of unclear or lack of communication.  The more I read the better I am at communicating with others.  Reading also helps me learn to have a larger world view and better see the bigger picture.  It expands my capacity and increases my abilities to do more.
4. Sharpens my thinking and increases knowledge: Reading fills my mind with new bits of information.  I never know when I will need to apply what I am reading, but when the time comes, I am always grateful that I acquired the information.  I always strive to apply what I am learning the same day I learn it.
5. Learn from others experiences: I am always reading books of people who are where I want to go.  Their books serve as a road map on how to get from where I am, to where they are.
6. Deepens relationships: I invite others to read the same books I am.  We meet together, talk about what we are reading and hold each other accountable.
7. Helps me sleep better: I like to read first thing in the morning and last thing before I go to bed. I choose not to watch TV or look at my phone the last 30 minutes before I go to sleep.  Reading gives my brain time to unplug and slow down and helps me relax and sleep better.

What are some of the benefits you experience from reading?  Comment below.

• My Intentional Approach to reading (Part 1)
• The Benefits I have experienced from reading (Part 2)
• The list of books I highly recommend with links to Amazon (Part 3)