Five (5) Tips For Reading a Book Thoughtfully (such as 'Becoming Hannah') #LeadersAreReaders December 2024

Many people misunderstand Hannah Yeoh’s book, Becoming Hannah (Sarcastically speaking, some people took 10 years to read it and suddenly decided something was ‘wrong’ with the book!). Some assume it reveals a hidden agenda to make Malaysia a Christian country. This is far from the truth. The book focuses on her personal journey, faith, and challenges in serving as a politician. Unfortunately, many critics haven’t read the book or fully understood its content, relying instead on hearsay.

To avoid misunderstandings like this, here are five tips for reading a book thoughtfully. These can be applied to any book you read:

1) Read the Entire Book - Don’t judge a book based on a few pages or isolated quotes taken out of context. Take time to read the whole book before forming an opinion. This ensures you understand the author's full message. If you haven’t read it, don’t criticize it. Simple.

2) Check the Author’s Purpose - Ask yourself: Why did the author write this book? Look for clues in the introduction or foreword. For example, Becoming Hannah was written to share Hannah Yeoh’s journey and inspire readers, not to push any agenda.

3) Avoid Prejudgments - Approach the book with an open mind. Avoid making assumptions based on the author’s religion, background, or what others say about the book. Prejudgments can distort your understanding.

4) Pay Attention to Context - Take note of the context of any statement or story. A single sentence can be misinterpreted if you ignore the surrounding paragraphs or chapters. Always ask, “What is the bigger picture here?”

5) Discuss with Others Who Have Read It - Engage with people who have also read the book. Sharing thoughts can help clarify your understanding and correct any misinterpretations.

Books like Becoming Hannah deserve to be read carefully and fairly. Avoiding misunderstandings not only helps you gain true insights but also prevents the spread of false assumptions. So, take time to read responsibly! Read widely and with an open mind. Don’t fear strange ideas or foreign beliefs. If your faith is strong and true, and you stay critical and thoughtful while reading books outside your comfort zone, you won’t be easily influenced (Although, I fully recommend you read the Bible or the New Testament too, because “the truth will set you free” 😉)

To read my monthly reading articles, CLICK HERE

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

Printed Pages, Lasting Benefits #LeadersAreReaders November 2024

 

For me, reading printed books daily is a rewarding habit that brings freshness and knowledge. You don’t have to read for hours or finish a book in one sitting—just a few pages a day, done consistently, can make a big difference. Printed books offer a unique experience. The feel of the pages, the scent of the paper, and the act of turning each page make reading more personal. Unlike screens, books don’t strain your eyes or distract you with notifications.

Start by setting aside just 10 minutes a day (once the habit forms, 10 minutes can be your minimum!). Choose a book you enjoy and keep it nearby. Whether it’s before bed, during breakfast, or during a quiet moment, make reading part of your routine. Over time, this small habit can improve your knowledge, focus, and mental clarity. A few pages today can bring lasting benefits for a more thoughtful life 😊

To read my monthly reading articles, CLICK HERE

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

Dear Full-Time Workers, Read Books! #LeadersAreReaders October 2024

 

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? You sit down to write, and there’s nothing. You stare at the laptop (or paper) for what feels like hours, and you’re not sure what to say. It happens to everyone, but it’s often because you’re running on empty.

Now, imagine this as a full-time worker in ministry. As a minister, you’re constantly creating. Week after week, you’re pouring everything you have into your messages—sermons, Bible studies, or short sharings. The challenge is that you can only pour out what you’ve put in. If your bucket, so to speak, is running dry, you’ll struggle to pour anything more out. A reading habit helps keep your bucket full all year long. It’s essential to be reading your Bible (first and foremost, above all else) and, in your spare time, other books.

The key is CONSISTENCY. When you make a habit of reading every day, you’re constantly finding ideas. Storing these insights in a notes database, or simply in your mind, means you’ll have a wealth of fresh thoughts and ideas ready to deliver. You’ll always have something meaningful and helpful to share. And when you sit down to write your messages (or in my case, outline ideas)—whether you’re working weeks in advance or, as I often do, a night or even just hours before (a risky move!)—you’ll be able to produce good messages faster. But you have to put in the work—read books! 😊

To read my monthly reading articles, CLICK HERE

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.