When I was younger, I used to fall asleep reading books. I would hide quietly under my bedside lamp when it was past my bedtime and read until my eyes would shut.
Over the years my reading interests have changed from Harry Patter to Sidney Sheldon. And for the past few years, I can’t get enough of photography and business books.
During the busy time of year, I find my passion for reading getting pushed to the backburner. So, it’s been nice to catch up a bit lately on something I love so much!
A few of my favorite past reads have been:
Fast Track Photographer (Business Plan)
The first step in legitimizing my business was hiring my first accountant. His name was Luke Sonnier and I am so thankful for all that he has done for my business!
Although Luke has moved onto other life endeavors, we still keep in touch and I look to him as an inspiration. Recently, we had lunch and he shared this book with me. And so…I’d like to share it with you!
First…know that it’s a SUPER quick read. Even reading only a few minutes a day, I finished it in less than a week. It’s also written as a story rather than a list of “Do This”, “Do That” instructions.
The story is about a company manager who is unhappy and not seeing the results he’d like in terms of performance at work. He’s also caught off guard when he realizes that what he thought was a great romantic relationship at home was really only one-sided.
The three things I took away from this book are below…although there are many things that I feel a reader could walk away with:
*Being Open and Listening:
I think a lot of times in life we have a pre-conceived idea of what others are feeling or why things are working out the way they are. But in reality, the only way to know for sure…is to ask. Only insight provided by being OPEN and LISTENING to others, can lead to better relationships.
*Having Integrity:
When it comes to work, I prioritize, I plan ahead and I am always on time…even EARLY. However, when it comes to my personal life I’m a HOT MESS. This book is such a reminder that if you want others to respect your time, you have to respect others. As a result, I’ve begun to prioritize those special relationships in my life such as friends and family the way that I should.
*Leading By Example:
This one is my favorite. It’s SO true that if you want others to follow you have to lead. Being disciplined and setting good examples is the way to get desired results.
In the book, its main character has a sports coach that guides him through his business journey. He actually reminded me a bit of my architectural professor, Tom, who preached a lot about discipline and hard work. While reading, I felt like I was getting a bit of coaching of my own.
If you’re a business book junky like myself…take a few minutes to check this one out. 🙂
Catherine
