One of the things I enjoy about taking time off is to read more aggressively. While I read at a pretty good clip in “ordinary time”, I try to increase my reading on vacation. I also try to vary my reading a bit.
So for the next several days I will highlight some of the books that I read on a recent quick trip to the beach in Naples, Florida.
First though, how do I pick a vacation read?
- I try for some variety. I start with a list of about 15 potentials. Some of these I have bought just for “vacation reading”. Some have been sent to me by publishers or other friends. But I stack them all up and save them to sort until right before I leave.
- Before you ask the Kindle question, I will answer. Yes I have one and it does go with me but for reading in lots of environments, I think physical books are still better.
- I aim to select books that I can read in one day. So that limits the page counts for me. Part of my logic is that I love “completion” of things and just like knocking them out. But again, I like variety, so if that book is dull, I will move on. So, I took five books with me. The shortest was about 200 pages and the longest was 300.
- Another variety thing is that I want to be stretched in multiple directions. So during these “Free Days” when my mind is not focused on managing and giving leadership, my head is open to new ideas.
- For you thriller and fiction readers, I rarely do more than five fiction books a year and only if they are pressed on me. Of course some people think business books are fiction too.
OK what did I take and what am I going to be sharing over the next few days.
Soccernomics – In honor of the World Cup and because I loved Freakanomics
A Perfect Mess – I reread this one because I missed a lot the first time. This time I read it in detail.
In Defense of Food – I heard an interview on NPR and it sounded interesting.
The Power of Pull – I got it in the airport bookstore a few weeks ago. It is the closest to an “ordinary time” book for me.
Kingdom Without Borders – for a global peek at Christianity.
Coming tomorrow – Soccernomics.
Dave Travis
Managing Director
Leadership Network
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