Goodreads.com: Discover What Books Have Formed You
I signed up for Goodreads after author Christine M. Grote mentioned the website in a blog post. I must confess that my initial reaction after reading about this social media community was to groan and blurt, "Not another time sapper." Yet I have to say that my experience with Goodreads has been remarkably positive for several reasons: I've met interesting people; created an online space where I can share about my book; and found new books I want to read. Yet more than these benefits, this experience has taken me through the process of remembering the books that have helped to form the person I am today.
A Million Miles in a Thousand Years: What I Learned While Editing My Life by Donald Miller
The website provides three ways to categorize books: read, currently reading, want to read. Most of my already read books are packed in boxes and stored in the rafters due to Christmas decorations that took their place on book shelves. So to recall the books I've read has taken a concerted effort. I've had to retrace my personal reading history, and in doing so, have discovered a clear path. No wonder I want to self-publish nonfiction books. My entire library fills with nonfiction. I definitely have a bent towards personal development that spurs me to devour books in this genre.
The Element by Ken Robinson http://sirkenrobinson.com/skr/the-ele...
One of the books that I remembered is titled Rich Dad, Poor Dad by author Robert T. Kiyosaki.
My son, Josiah, (who worked for the business consulting firm Bain & Co) recommended this book several years ago after I told him that I had a hankering to build another home-based business. I bought and devoured this book's contents from cover to cover. Although it's packed away today, I can still recall the message I received: When you build a business, do what you love. Find a hobby you would develop whether or not you make money from it.
As I look back over these last five years, since I decided to pursue writing, I can attest to two truths:
I've done what I loved.
I haven't made any money from it.
Now don't get me wrong, I've made tremendous progress with my first book on the way, any day; however, I've also realized that the financial benefits may never materialize. Would I do it all over again? You bet I would. In fact, the second book is about ready for my editor. Doing what I love has improved my quality of life and mental state, which are wonderful benefits.
So I end this post with some amateur wisdom. Retrace your reading history and recall the types of books you love. This exercise in self-discovery holds the key to opening future doors of possibility. Whether or not you desire to become a writer, you can always share the books that delighted or inspired you with others. After all, the best advertisement is word of mouth. So, why not make an author happy by passing on a positive word about his or her book to other eager readers. You never know, perhaps there are other writers in the making who just might decide to pursue the craft after reading your suggestion.
*Authors and books featured in the photos:
Donald Miller – A Million Miles in a Thousand Years: What I Learned While Editing My Life
B.J.Taylor - The Complete Guide to Writers' Groups that Work
Kathi Lipp - 5 Simple Steps to Kick-Start Your Speaking Career
Rafe Esquith – Teach Like Your Hair's on Fire: The Methods and Madness Inside Room 56
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