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Each year, somewhere between 600,000 and one million books get published in the U.S. alone. With so many new titles to choose from, why would you want to re-read books that are already on your shelves?
Repetition makes things stick. Sometimes you need to read a book two or three times (or more) for its key ideas to sink in and take hold.
You catch things you missed earlier. A standard business book is around 50,000-60,000 words, according to this blog post by ghostwriter Ginny Carter. With that many words, some details might not get noticed the first time around.
You don’t have to start at the beginning. If you’re looking for certain information, you can choose sections or chapters to review — and understand the context — without having to re-read the whole book.
It’s fun to re-read your favorites. Old books are like old friends. It’s enjoyable to spend time with them.
As the pandemic lockdowns continue, now is a good time to enjoy some of these favorites and learn from them again. Here are a few business books that I go back and re-read from time to time:
Think and Grow Rich – In this book first published in 1937, author Napoleon Hill presents principles used by Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and other millionaires to become wealthy.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey presents a holistic, integrated, principle-centered approach for solving personal and professional problems. First published in 1990, it’s packed with wisdom and advice that’s still relevant today
How to Stop Worrying and Start Living – In this book, author Dale Carnegie (probably best known for “How to Win Friends and Influence People”) presents time-tested methods for conquering worry.
Time Tactics of Very Successful People – Written by B. Eugene Griessman, this book is concise, easy-to- read and, of course, gets right to the point. This post lists a few of the book’s tactics.
Customers for Life – Author Carl Sewell shares principles that he used to build his auto dealership into a near $1 billion business and become one the top retailers in the U.S.
Are there some business books you read over and over? Please feel free to mention them in the comments below.
