National Book Lover’s Day — Enriching Your Life and Career One Book at a Time

National Book Lover's Day occurs annually on Aug. 9  to celebrate the joy of reading and the abundant benefits it brings to our lives. As a leader, you may wonder what National Book Lover's Day has to do with business. 

Did you know that reading is one of the most important skills you can cultivate as a leader, and it can have a tremendous impact on your personal and professional growth?

Most importantly, reading helps you stay informed and up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in your field. Whether you're a product manager looking to launch a new solution, a manager seeking to improve your team's performance, or a CEO looking to stay ahead of the competition, reading can provide you with valuable insights and perspectives that can inform your decision-making.

Reading can also help you develop your critical thinking skills. When you read a book, you engage with the material on a deeper level by analyzing and synthesizing information to understand the author's message. This process of critical thinking is essential for effective decision-making, problem-solving, and innovation, all of which are critical skills for leaders in any field.

In addition to all the professional development benefits, reading is also about personal growth and enrichment. Reading can help you develop empathy and emotional intelligence, as you immerse yourself in the lives and experiences of characters from all walks of life. 

It can help you expand your view of the world and gain a deeper understanding of various cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. And let’s not forget that reading a book can provide you with a much-needed escape from the stresses of work and everyday life, allowing you to relax, unwind, and recharge your mental and emotional batteries. According to the University of Minnesota, reading can reduce stress up to 68%. More so than listening to music, having a cup of tea, or taking a walk.

So, on National Book Lover's Day, carve out some time to celebrate the joy of reading and the countless benefits it can bring to your life. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

Read a book

It may seem obvious, but the best way to celebrate National Book Lover's Day is by reading a book! Choose a book that interests you, whether it's a classic novel, a self-help book, or a biography. Set aside some time to read — either during your lunch break, in the evening before bed, or on your commute to work. If you aren’t sure where to begin, there are some recommendations below from the vast and ever-growing collection of readable solutions on Percipio, which includes digital books, audiobooks, and even book summaries.

Launch or join a book club 

Reading can be a solitary activity, but it doesn't have to be. Participating in a book club with colleagues or friends can be a terrific way to share your love of reading and engage in lively, thought-provoking discussions about the books you've read. You can even choose books that relate to your industry or field, and use the discussions as an opportunity to brainstorm new ideas and strategies. Alternatively, check out Skillsoft’s OFF THE SHELF book club, where we feature monthly selections, monthly bookshelves and provide discussion questions to help take your conversations to the next level. 

Share your favorite books

National Book Lover's Day is a fantastic opportunity to share your favorite books with others. Post about your favorite books on social media, share a shelfie, or recommend them to colleagues and friends. You never know who might be inspired by your recommendations.

Donate books you’ve read to a local library or charity

Reading is a privilege that not everyone has access to. Consider donating books to your local library, nearby school, or your favorite charity to help spread the joy of reading to those who may not have the means to purchase books on their own.

Even if you aren’t a self-proclaimed bibliophile who gets slightly giddy at the sight of a library or bookstore, books are for everyone! Take some time to celebrate National Book Lover's Day, and make reading a regular part of your personal and professional growth and development — it can be a powerful tool to help you excel in your career, achieve your goals, and become a more well-rounded individual. 

Happy National Book Lover's Day!

Looking for your next read? Here are 5 book recommendations. 

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