As part of my morning routine, I read (see this blog post about my morning routine). I often read books for a specific purpose when I want to learn more about a topic so I can teach, but as I started reading more regularly (resulting in greater quantity), I started wondering, “Am I implementing any of the ideas from these books or am I just reading them and then putting them on my shelf?”

That question led me to several days of reflecting and journaling, where the teacher in me eventually came out. I concluded that I might be implementing some ideas, but probably not very consistently. I also had no reference unless I picked up the book again and flipped through it to read my notes (I tend to write all through my books).

I started asking others what they do and discovered that there is a massive disconnect between reading and using knowledge. So, I dug deep into my teacher toolbox and designed a Book Review Sheet. I looked at what is important to track, as well as, what will help take the knowledge from the pages of a book to practical ideas we can implement. Each person will take something different from a book, so while my Resources page may be useful in determining some good books to read, it doesn’t give you the ideas to apply. As well, there are techniques good readers use in comprehension, that we often don’t use when reading, so why not combine them all into a helpful resource.

Do you ever flip through a book before you read it and reflect on why you are reading it? What drew you to it? Are there any titles or images on the pages that make you curious? Are you reading it because it’s required or because you choose to as this can make a difference in how you approach it. When you are done reading, do you close the book and put it on the shelf (or possibly write a paper)? Do you reflect on questions the content brings up that can guide further investigations? Do you pull out any actionable items? Can you make any connections to something you read elsewhere, or something you experienced? (We understand what we can connect to something else). Or do you possibly take pages of notes that you never refer to again?

I am quite excited about my new Book Review sheet as it combines all of these prompts on one sheet. I can print them and reflect on my reading, but they also serve as references. I generally end my teaching sessions with “What is one thing you learned from today that you can take forward and use in the next 30 days?” This book review is like that question on steroids.

The best part? I’m basically just giving it away (I’m just asking you to sign up for my newsletter) and then it’s yours. And if you stick with the newsletter, I’ll continue to share advance copies of completed sheets for books I’ve read (in addition to other great information).

I know some of you just found me and others have been with me on this journey for the past couple of years, but either way, I hope you’ll stick with me. I’ve been working up to a more formal launch of my leadership business and starting a newsletter is one of my first steps. I truly appreciate the support many of you have given me and I’m so excited to continue building my true passion of empowering others to lead.