The power of books

One of America’s most famous editors, Norman Cousins, ended his career teaching medical students. He wrote this about books:

“There is a simple non-medical technique for increasing longevity. This system goes by the name of ‘book.’ Through it, man can live hundreds of lifetimes in one. What is more, he may enjoy fabulous options. He can live in any age of his choosing. He can take possession of an experience. He can live inside the mind of any man who has recorded an interesting thought, any man who has opened up new slices of knowledge, any man who has engaged in depth of feeling or awareness beyond the scope of most mortals. This is what good books are all about.”

Television, computers, the internet and even radio were supposed to be the replacement for conventional books when each first became popular. But more books than ever are being published, and more copies are being sold, including both paper and digital editions.

Inscribed on the Thomas Jefferson Building at the Library of Congress are the first eight words of this quotation by Henry David Thoreau: “Books are the treasured wealth of the world and the fit inheritance of generations and nations. Their authors are a natural and irresistible aristocracy in every society, and, more than kings or emperors, exert an influence on mankind.”

Businesspeople take note: People who read business books earn more money — a lot more! According to several studies, businesspeople who read at least seven business books a year earn over 2.3 times more than those who read only one per year. 

Why?

One reason is they have a constant flow of new ideas and strategies they can use to help their careers, their teams and their companies. Given the uncertainty of layoffs and other challenges as the economy recovers, you should do everything you can to help your team and your company. That is the best way to not only safeguard your career, but also to help it grow.

You can find a stream of new and practical ideas to drive your success from the world’s business experts. Many of them have written books offering their proven strategies and winning ideas. One winning idea, and the book is worth its weight in gold. It’s a terrific investment.

Books are a treasure trove of knowledge. They provide insights into various subjects, allowing individuals to learn and grow in areas they are passionate about. Whether it’s leadership, communication or emotional intelligence, books offer a wealth of information that can enhance personal skills. March is Read Across America Month.

French philosopher Rene Descartes said, “The reading of all good books is like a conversation with the finest minds of past centuries.”

Reading books exposes you to different viewpoints and cultures. This broadens your perspective and fosters empathy, helping you understand and relate to others better. It encourages open-mindedness and tolerance, which are crucial for personal growth.

Books often tell stories of individuals who have overcome challenges and achieved great things. These narratives can be incredibly inspiring, motivating readers to pursue their own goals and dreams with renewed vigor.

Engaging with complex narratives and arguments in books can sharpen your critical thinking skills. It encourages you to analyze information, weigh different perspectives and develop well-reasoned conclusions.

Books can be a source of comfort and solace. They offer an escape from the stresses of daily life and provide a safe space for reflection and introspection. Reading can reduce stress, improve mood and contribute to overall mental well-being.

Finally, books promote a culture of continuous learning. They remind us that personal development is an ongoing journey, encouraging us to seek knowledge and growth throughout our lives.

Humorist Mark Twain was once asked if he thought a book was the most useful gift one could give. Twain responded: “Yes, but of course it depends on the book. A big leather-bound volume makes an ideal razor strap. A thick book is useful to stick under a table with a broken caster to steady it. A large, flat atlas can be used to cover a window with a broken pane. And a thick, old-fashioned heavy book with a clasp is the finest thing in the world to throw at a noisy cat.”

For the record, Mark Twain published more than 70 books!

Mackay’s Moral: Our lives basically change in three ways: through the people we meet, the places we travel and the books we read.

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Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times bestseller “Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive.” He can be reached through his website, www.harveymackay.com, by emailing [email protected] or by writing him at MackayMitchell Envelope Co., 2100 Elm St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.