Could Reading Be Bad for You?

It was the second day of the boot camp.

The line-up of speakers was nothing short of extraordinary.

The sequence of delivery was topnotch. These weren’t motivational speakers. At least I wouldn’t call them that. “Motivational teachers” would be a better description. 

Beyond the adrenaline pump, these guys were dishing priceless, applicable knowledge the audience can apply, measure and get sustained results.

“This meeting is worth every dime,” I kept thinking to myself; nodding agamally.

One speaker stood out for me. 

For the sake of this article, I’ll call him Jack Robinson.

I have read a ton of Robinson’s books. Including his latest release, months earlier. I’d mastered his line of thought so much so that I could draw a single line from his first book to the latest.

Although Mr. Robinson’s core message has been consistent, there was no telling how much he had evolved over the decade.

His writings are proof. 

As one who is familiar with his books, there was a Robinson I expected to see and hear.

His short stint with the military had shaped his business paradigm in no small way. I knew that.

He disliked certain widely-held beliefs, especially in Keynesian economics. He also has a soft spot for protectionism.

And he loves potatoes! Please don't ask how I know. (There so much an ethical stalker can learn on the job)

However, what I heard that morning was quite different from the Robinson I―thought I―knew. For starters, this guy spent over half his session sharing ideas I perceived to be quite alien to his usual message.

The scenario he painted, to me, was nothing close to the usual. And for those who know, Mr. Robinson was wearing an entirely new look. I mean a new hairstyle, a little tattoo on his right arm and the most obvious; the three rings on his index, middle and pinky fingers on the left. 

By the end of his talk, I joined the others to applaud, albeit absentmindedly. 

While the rest of the audience seemed pumped up and ready to charge hell with a water pistol, I had mixed feelings.

I flung my muffler around my neck and excused myself as I rushed to the back of the hall to get his autograph on the copy of his book I had brought along. 

“It’s great to finally meet you, Sir,” I said, letting off a smirk. “Nice to meeting you Mr. Steve,” he replied with a wide smile. He must have read a ton of my comments on his LinkedIn articles and posts.

To his surprise, I had also brought him a gift; something only a keen follower could tell he likes.

“Sir, I couldn’t figure out a proper gift. But I hope this makes your day and your daughter’s.”

If his grin was anything to go by, then he was probably thinking “this must be a really wise kid”. 

He handed me the autographed copy, still giving me that bone-crushing handshake. 

A part of me could not wait to ask him about the direction of his talk minutes earlier. In the short time we had, he taught me profound lessons I continue to appreciate to this day. 

I’ll share just one.

Beyond reading books, follow the person. 

It was a simple yet profound piece of advice.

…a little digression…

The truth is, we are all at different stages in our growth. And while the principles shared in a bestselling book may be ageless, there are still elements that change with time.

More so, not all principles apply to your current phase.

For instance, the author may have talked about systems for maintaining a certain level of result, but as it were, you’re currently building your life and career. 

From my little understanding, building and maintenance don’t run on the same code. And so, if you’re still down there on the income-impact-influence continuum, what you need are growth systems. Not maintenance. 

…back to track…

Since we all grow and evolve with time―whether intentionally or accidentally―there is no doubt that the thoughts and convictions of your favourite author would evolve too.

Sadly, those subtle changes may not be reflected in their books published 2, 5 or 10 years ago; books you’re only reading today. 

Of course, your today could be the author’s yesterday and that is fine, as long as what you are learning syncs with your present. However, beyond sticking with a hardcover book or eBook, Follow. The. Person. 

The reason is simple; People grow, books don’t. At least not yet. 

That’s why we have improved editions. Regrettably, not all authors will allow you to study their transitions. 

If, for instance, you were a programmer, John Backus may be impressed by your passion for FORTRAN but he would most likely advise you to move on. Because, if he were alive, he would have done the same. Or perhaps created something else. 

This, I believe, is what makes active mentorship priceless.

Beyond the books, videos, online courses and social media content, there is a PERSON to follow, a CHARACTER to emulate, THOUGHT PATTERNS and HABITS to adopt, and SECRETS to learn. 

You may ask, "how about authors who are no more?"

Well, there is always someone who was too grateful to let their ideas die with them. The likes of Dr Myles Munroe (of blessed memory) have replicated himself, not only in books but also in vocal proteges scattered across the globe.

I’m ardently following one. 

In any case, you must follow someone―consciously or not. If you must follow, then you must probe. Probe the lives of those you want to call “mentor” until you deem them worthy of your loyalty and trust. 

With only one life, it becomes too risky to follow someone who is still guessing his way around. 

My ultimate mentor puts it this way,

…if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. (Matt. 15:14, KJV) 

Remember, you become who you follow. You reflect who you see and hear consistently. You will eventually replicate their results. And if not done right, you could inherit their limitations too. 

So, before you call yourself a Marlian, a Gladwellian or take up the identity of any message, movement or public figure, understand what you are becoming.

Begin with the end in mind.