How Do Successful People Read? In-depth Analysis vs. Quick Skim

Successful individuals often have varied approaches to reading depending on their goals and the material. This article explores the different reading strategies employed by successful people, focusing on in-depth analysis versus quick skimming. Whether you are a business professional, a lifelong learner, or an avid reader, this article offers insights into optimizing your reading habits for maximum impact.

Surely, Purpose-Driven Reading

Successful readers typically read with a clear purpose in mind. They choose books that align with their goals, whether for personal development, professional growth, or leisure. For example, someone looking to enhance their business skills might actively engage with books related to entrepreneurship, management, and leadership.

Active Engagement: Tackling Books Mindfully

Many successful individuals engage actively with the text. This might include:

Notating Key Insights: Jotting down key insights, quotes, or ideas that resonate with them. Highlighting or Underlining: Marking important passages for quick reference later. Multiple Read-Throughs: Some may read a book multiple times to deepen their understanding, especially if the material is complex or particularly relevant to their work. Summarizing and Reflecting: After finishing a book, successful people often summarize the main ideas and reflect on how they can apply them in their lives.

For instance, when reading Peak by Chip Conley, a successful businessperson, I took notes on his application of Maslow's hierarchy of needs in real-life business scenarios. This added value to my understanding of customer satisfaction and provided practical insights to improve my business.

Discussion and Application: Reinforcing Learning

Sharing insights with peers or applying the lessons learned in real-life scenarios helps reinforce understanding and retention. Discussing the book with others, for example, can provide new perspectives and spark further discussion. By engaging in dialogues, readers can deepen their understanding and apply the concepts more effectively.

Varied Formats: Flexibility in Learning

Successful readers also mix formats such as audiobooks, summaries, and physical books to suit their lifestyle and learning preferences. This flexibility ensures that readers can access information in the most convenient and impactful way possible.

Personal Experience: My Approach to Reading

My reading habits are influenced by my background as a seasoned entrepreneur. I tend to analyze books in depth and take notes when they significantly stretch my intellect and add value to my knowledge of my life and business. Conversely, I opt to skim or fail to finish books that do not resonate with my goals or add value.

For example, when reading Grit by Dr. Angela Duckworth, a professor with impressive academic credentials, I found it elementary and lacking in practical business advice. Therefore, I only skimmed through the initial 50 pages and placed the book on my bookshelf for others to enjoy.

However, I highly value books written by individuals who have 'walked the talk,' such as Peter Drucker. His insights into business, economics, and politics consistently amaze due to his firsthand experience and empirical knowledge. There is something to be said for direct, practical experience over academic surveys and interviews.

The source data for books by academics often consists of surveys and interviews of businesspersons, mostly those at lofty levels in prominent companies. While this can provide valuable insights, the taint of second- or third-hand information can compromise the reliability and applicability of the advice. In my experience, I can trust empirical knowledge based on firsthand experience, as opposed to hearsay.

In summary, while some successful people may read casually and find one read-through sufficient, many adopt a more analytical approach, taking notes, reflecting deeply, and engaging with the material to maximize their learning. Whether you choose to analyze in-depth or skim, the key is to align your reading habits with your goals and ensure the material is relevant and valuable to you.