is to treat it as less important than we do appointments with others .
When it comes to requests by others for our time then , many of us say ‘ yes ’ far too quickly and too often . And if we do say ‘ no ,’ we feel like we need to defend the answer to the other person .
The next time someone asks if you ’ re available during a time you ’ ve scheduled to read ( or during any other appointment you ’ ve made with you ), resist the temptation to default to ‘ yes ’ in your response . Default instead to ‘ no .’ That one word can be a complete sentence . And the answer need not be defended . If you are going to say ‘ yes ’, however , you need to be able to defend that answer to yourself .
Assuming the request is for a worthwhile project or need and you do want to help , don ’ t be afraid to suggest a more convenient time . Again , we too often and too easily give up time set aside for our own growth and development . But , if you ’ re not investing time in filling your own tank , then you can ’ t expect to be at your best for others . One of the most effective ways to spend that time , I believe , is with books , specifically nonfiction .
Recognize first that your reading goals can be achieved in less time than you think . Commit to make reading a priority by scheduling it . Then vigorously defend the time you ’ ve set aside for the task . These three practices will go a long way to getting you back to one of the most important and effective habits you ’ ve ever cultivated .
NOW
Jeff Brown is host of the four-time Best Business Podcastnominated Read to Lead , and co-author ( with Jesse Wisnewski ) of Read to Lead : The Simple Habit That Expands Your Influence and Boosts Your Career . Through his virtual and in-person speaking and workshops , Jeff evangelizes leaders and teams on the benefits of lifelong learning and professional development , and has recently accepted invitations to speak from leaders at LinkedIn , Disney , and the Virginia Council of CEOs .
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