Reading is one of the best personal investments you can make. In a previous article, I wrote about the many benefits of reading. I firmly believe that reading and moving your body are the 1a and 1b of personal development and life satisfaction.

Reading

Let’s take it one step further. While I believe it is beneficial to read many different types of books and as many books as you can, I also believe that it is important to find your favourite books and re-read them once per year.

Continue to discover new books. But also, read the books that have inspired you in the past. Here’s why:

You’ve Changed – Your life situation has likely changed from the last time you read a book that impacted you. Reading the book again can help drive home some of the main points. Your perspective may have changed since the last time you read the book. You’ve been through things since the last time you picked up that book. Discover how your new perspective has changed by reading the book again. It may affect you differently this time and it may also be what you need to get through tough times.

You’ve Forgotten the Material – Reading is powerful and life changing. But if you don’t take the lessons you learned from the book and consistently use them in your life, you’re wasting your time. We’ve all met the person who has read every self-help book out there, yet their lives are a complete disaster. Re-read your favourite books one per year to remind you of the powerful lessons you once learned.

You Already Know You Enjoy Them – You already know you enjoy these books. I am a big proponent of repeatedly doing what makes you happy and fulfilled. There’s nothing wrong with going back to the well that you know has provided you comfort, inspiration, enjoyment and growth in the past. You’ll probably get even more out of the books the second and third time through. Re-reading a good book is like catching up with an old friend. It’s very comforting and very fulfilling.

Motivation and Inspiration – I have read as many personal finance and fitness books I can get my hands on. I have all the knowledge I need. But I’m human. If I don’t consistently follow through on the principle’s I’ve learned, I’m bound to make mistakes, stray from the path and stop being intentional with my fitness and finances. I continue to read these types of books, listen to podcasts, and read articles about fitness and finance, to keep me motivated and on track with who I want to be. It continues to solidify my commitment to these things. Where focus goes, energy flows.

Your Favourite Parts – It is very satisfying to re-discover your favourite parts of a book.

Comprehension – The first time through a book is kind of like the first time listening through an album. You miss a lot of the little things the book has to offer. You’re focused on progression, rather than enjoyment and comprehension. The second and third time through a book brings forth new ideas, a new perspective and a new appreciation for the words.

The Current Books I Re-Read Once Per Year:

1. The Wealthy Gardener – John Soforic (My All-time Favourite Book)

2. Relentless – Tim Grover

3. Winning – Tim Grover

4. The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho

5. The 10X Rule – Grant Cardone

6. Extreme Ownership – Jocko Willink

7. The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: A Guide to Wealth And Happiness – Eric Jorgenso

8. The Daily Mission – Jason Peters

You may find it odd to re-read your own book. These are my core values and beliefs, all wrapped up in 200+ pages. If I find myself straying from the person I want to be, I read through the book to get myself back on track. I wrote the book that I always wanted to read. This book, along with the others I’ve shared, inspire me to be the man that I want to be. The man I know I can be.