When I Slowed Down
After I graduated from West Point, I felt a little guilty if I weren’t reading about military history, leadership, or anything that might help me as an army officer. But I still read novels occasionally. (10 yrs)
When I Stopped
But when I left the military and was in the business world, I stopped reading novels almost completely. I only read business books, sales, marketing, joint ventures, raising money, etc. I even wrote a business/self-help book. I really felt reading a novel was a waste of time. Why? I wanted to be as successful as possible, and I felt even just one good idea from one business book, could have a huge impact. (25 yrs)
Write Your Own Novel
Then I sold my company. I slowed down a little, read a few novels and I have just finished writing my first novel, Kill Crime. Wow-what an experience? It’s still in the final steps of editing. It should be out in a few months.
This was such a great learning experience and FUN. If you start working on writing a novel, you will never read a novel the same. You will see how different authors write and share their stories. To me, it was like stepping into the matrix. Instead of blasting through a novel, I slowed down and started to see all connections and hidden lines.(1+ yr)
Suggestions
Read – Of course read novels!
Write – If you want to do it. Just set a total word goal and a daily word goal, then do it.
Share – Novels are so enriching and allow you to go anywhere and be anyone. I now also read out loud to my wife. I suggest this as a connecting experience for couples or possibly friends too. It is a great way to have a shared experience. Of course, joining a book club can also give you a great opportunity to have a shared experience.
Coming Up
I plan to write at least two novels a year. Maybe I’ll try a screenplay too.
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