Transforming a Decade of Reading into Real-Life Skills
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Chapter 1: Reflections on My Journey
At the age of 19, I found myself at a crossroads in life. While many of my younger peers were busy dating, working, driving, and pursuing their dreams, I felt completely unprepared. I hadn’t kissed a girl, barely earned any money, and had never driven even a scooter.
I often blamed my upbringing and the absence of positive role models for my immaturity. The truth, however, was that I was simply scared of growing up and wanted to cling to my childhood for as long as possible. Yet, I was self-aware enough to recognize my shortcomings, which frustrated me.
In search of answers, I traveled to Australia. There, I indulged in partying, made friends, and even shared my first kisses! However, despite spending eight and a half months far from home, I still felt the weight of 15 years of undeveloped social skills. I had issues I needed to understand, and I was determined to find a way to address them.
Like many young men, my desires revolved around girls, financial success, and a fit body. Lacking the knowledge of how to achieve these goals, I turned to books as a source of wisdom.
Section 1.1: My Reading Obsession
I immersed myself in reading—books after books, hoping that knowledge would unlock solutions to my problems. I believed that being well-read would make me interesting, thus attracting friends. However, my plan backfired.
While my peers were out socializing, I stayed in reading about social skills. When they pursued relationships, I read about dating. Instead of seeking employment, I buried myself in literature on financial success. Ironically, the more I read, the further I drifted from my aspirations, leading to growing unhappiness.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Power of Writing
It wasn’t until I discovered the value of writing that I began to think and learn more effectively. This newfound passion became another addiction, allowing me to build a creative career over the past four years. Yet, despite my growth, I realized that I was still the same confused 19-year-old—just ten years older.
Although I was not as lost as before and had made some progress, I still lacked the money, fitness, and relationships I had desired. A decade is a substantial amount of time, and if your efforts do not yield results, it’s time to rethink your approach.
Section 1.2: The Lesson Learned
I may possess more knowledge than many I encounter, but I haven’t achieved the milestones I thought I would. The harsh reality is that I now understand the reason: I never took action.
You can read endlessly, but true progress comes from doing. Success is not handed to you through mere knowledge; it requires effort and engagement in life’s activities.
So, take that leap. Make that phone call. Start that business. Ask someone out. Hit the gym. Connect with an old friend. Anything less is simply wasting time.
I’ve spent a decade learning this lesson, and it’s one I won’t forget.
Chapter 2: Realizing the Need for Action
The first video, "I Read a Book a Week for a Year and It Changed My Life," discusses how consistent reading can lead to significant personal transformation.
In the second video, "How I Read 100 Books In A Year (as a slow reader)," the creator shares insights on managing reading goals and making the most of your time.