Why Reading Matters - Insights From a Motivational Speaker

Why Reading Matters: Insights from The Accidental Creative Podcast

Listening to Todd Henry’s The Accidental Creative podcast episode Four Books to Read in 2017 is more than just a book recommendation list—it’s a lesson in why reading is crucial for personal and professional growth. While the episode is structured around an affiliate partnership with Audible, it’s far from a hard sell. Instead, it offers valuable insights into how reading shapes our thinking, disrupts mental ruts, and helps us build better frameworks for navigating life.

The Power of Reading

Henry emphasizes that reading does more than just provide information—it challenges our existing mental models and prevents our worldview from fossilizing. Over time, if we aren’t regularly exposed to new perspectives, we risk missing valuable opportunities simply because they don’t fit into our current way of thinking.

Reading acts as a disruptor, shaking up our assumptions and pushing us to think beyond our everyday experiences. It’s a form of mental exercise, strengthening our ability to connect the dots between seemingly unrelated ideas. Those who can consistently make these connections earn a seat at the table in any strategic conversation.

Another key insight is that reading can help us escape the cycle of sameness. In a world where our daily routines and media consumption often reinforce the same ideas, books offer an opportunity to break free and explore new ways of thinking.

Book Recommendation: How Will You Measure Your Life? by Clayton Christensen

Of the four books recommended in the episode, one particularly stands out: How Will You Measure Your Life? by Clayton Christensen. The book challenges readers to actively think about their life’s direction rather than waiting until the end to reflect on what they wish they had done differently.

Christensen argues that we should develop a personal theory of life—a framework that helps us measure success along the way rather than relying on hindsight. He explains that a good theory operates through if-then statements, helping us predict outcomes before we experience them.

This insight directly challenges a common assumption: that first-hand experience is more valuable than theory. Christensen suggests that relying solely on personal experience can be costly—after all, no one wants to go through multiple failed marriages just to learn how to be a good spouse. Instead, theory provides guidance, helping us make better decisions before we encounter life’s biggest challenges.

The Broader Lesson: Writing Your Own Life Map

This discussion of reading and theory ties into a broader theme: the importance of consciously defining what we want from life. Instead of drifting along, we should actively think about our goals and develop a plan to reach them. Writing down a clear set of principles—a life map—can provide clarity and direction.

The more I explore the subject of change, the more I realize how much there is to learn. Every podcast, book, and conversation opens up more questions. But that’s exactly why I feel compelled to keep exploring and sharing what I find. If I can break down these insights in a way that is accessible, digestible, and applicable, then perhaps others who don’t have the time to dive deep can benefit from these lessons.

Affiliate Marketing Done Right

Beyond the book recommendations, this episode of The Accidental Creative serves as a great example of ethical affiliate marketing. Todd Henry provides genuine value—offering insights, free resources, and practical takeaways—before making any kind of sales pitch. It’s the perfect demonstration of Gary Vaynerchuk’s principle: jab, jab, jab, right hook (give, give, give, then ask).

For those considering selling knowledge and wisdom online, affiliate marketing will likely come into play at some point. Henry’s approach is one worth remembering: always lead with value.

Final Thoughts

Reading isn’t just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about training your mind to think critically, see the world differently, and make better decisions. If you’re looking to challenge your assumptions, expand your perspective, and develop a stronger framework for life, books are one of the best tools available.

For the full list of Todd Henry’s recommended books, check out The Accidental Creative podcast. And if you’re looking for a guiding principle in your own learning journey, remember this: Success leaves clues.