Every January 1st I start the year committing to reading a certain number of books. I'm typically anchored in books that relate to leadership, management, or general business development. I try pretty often to read other types of books to balance my selection (can never do fiction).

What I realized this month is that I have reached my quota of books to read this year and they are all based in business. What I have also realized is that I have really improved in a lot of areas as it relates to my personal performance. I can't say that at the end of each book I instantly became better at any particular subject but as I have encountered some challenges in my day to day work responsibilities I began to handle them a lot better.

Also, not that reading alone creates a better professional as other factors can play a part such as training classes and peer discussions, but there are situations and examples that have come out in reading that I have encountered and really have a perspective that has allowed me to endure.

I share this information today because I'm very enthused about what I have read this year and want to encourage everyone to dedicate time to read something that is of interest to you.

If you have some recommended readings, please share.