Use What You Learned

To truly benefit from reading, it's essential to apply what you learn. A common saying suggests that we retain only 20% of what we read, primarily because our minds don’t actively engage with that information. For example, I recently explored the book "How to Win Friends and Influence People." Whenever I discovered a new insight, I practiced it with my family first. If it proved effective, I would then try it out on friends, relatives, and even acquaintances.

By approaching reading this way, I avoid accumulating pages of information that serve no purpose. I no longer rely on notes when conversing; I internalize the knowledge for daily use. Learning becomes simple when you actively practice it.

Write Down Your Insights

While you may not be able to implement every piece of information, it's crucial to jot down key insights. Simply highlighting quotes doesn’t engage your brain sufficiently. To enhance retention, you need to challenge your mind.

I prefer using a notepad and pen. After completing a chapter, I don't transcribe every word; instead, I draft a narrative that outlines how and with whom I plan to apply the insights. For instance, after learning about the significance of a smile from the same book, I noted: “In the morning, I’ll greet my mom with a smile. When I meet friends, I’ll smile and ask how their day went. Walking past a stranger, I’ll wear a cheerful expression.”

This approach transforms the advice into practical applications, making it more memorable.

Teach Others What You’ve Learned

One of the most effective ways to solidify your learning is by teaching others. Even here, I’m sharing the insights I've gained, which helps me internalize them further. Writing these tips engages my brain, enhancing my ability to remember.

Moreover, sharing your knowledge holds you accountable to practice what you preach. This mutual benefit not only reinforces your learning but also establishes a commitment to applying your insights.

Thank you for taking the time to read this! Here are additional tips for improving your learning experience:

1. Read What Interests You: Choose books that genuinely captivate you. Forcing yourself to read something you're not passionate about won't yield valuable lessons.
2. Create a Comfortable Reading Environment: Ensure your reading space is cozy and tranquil to enhance enjoyment.
3. Reread Influential Books: Go back to books that have profoundly impacted you after some time has passed, and you may uncover valuable insights you missed previously.