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Leaders are readers

It should come as no surprise that many of today’s innovative leaders are eager readers. These forward-thinking book lovers are motivated to seek out new approaches, apply fresh ideas, and use an author’s energy to fuel their own fires—simply by reading the words on a page.

Successful Kiwanis leaders understand the benefits of reading in their professional and personal lives. Some come from homes where reading was valued and encouraged. Others say experiencing someone else’s journeys through the written word motivates them to reflect on their own life purpose and the impact they have through their leadership responsibilities. Still others seem almost wistful as they reflect on the significance of reading in their lives.

“Through reading you acquire an understanding that is necessary to advance both personally and professionally,” says Walter Sellers, Past Kiwanis International President and a member of the Kiwanis Club of Xenia, Ohio. “As you read, you gain insight. Looking back, I wish I had read more.”

Reading books and articles about leadership development and trends keeps Kiwanis leaders on top of their game. They regularly read about topics such as communication, motivation, vision, planning, and attitudes. They seek out books by authors such as John Maxwell and Jim Collins. They even branch out to read about issues outside of their professions to know “what’s out there” beyond their own discipline or industry, says Kristin Skarie, president of Teamworks and a member of the Kiwanis Club of All Ohio eMedina.

“I consider reading about leadership an essential part of one’s responsibility as a leader, facilitator, educator, or volunteer to stay fresh, aware, and curious,” says Kristin, who also serves as a facilitator for Kiwanis’ Key Leader program. “Reading encourages critical thinking, exploration of one’s own views, and opportunities to connect with others. There is common ground in having read the same book—maybe not enough for world peace, but enough to create more understanding and appreciation. Readers become more open to people with different viewpoints.”

Leaders who are hungry for wisdom, knowledge, and insight open books about—and by—leaders of all ages, professions, and backgrounds.

“I think leaders need to have voracious appetites for learning through reading,” says Jane Erickson, Kiwanis International Foundation President and a member of the Bellevue-Offutt Kiwanis club in Nebraska. “Leaders need to be open to new ideas and concepts and need to have their own ideas validated and sometimes challenged. That makes you stronger in what you do.”—Karen Trent