Recently, I started reading a book on financial history. I’m curious about the topic and think it could help me better understand the current financial landscape. I was excited when I received the book and began reading it, but I quickly realized I wasn’t feeling it. I was somewhat academic and a chore to read. The writing style wasn’t a good fit for me. I struggled to read thirty or so pages before I pulled the plug.

I’ve put pre-read steps in place to reduce the likelihood that I’ll start reading a book I won’t like, so this hasn’t occurred in many months. Because it isn’t happening as often, I second-guessed myself for a moment before I realized that I wasn’t the problem. The book was.

I read to gain wisdom from others and an understanding of topics that interest me. If a book isn’t helping me achieve those goals, I need to move on and find another book that will. There’s no shame in that. I’ve got an objective, and I’m on a mission. The world is full of books. If one isn’t working, there are plenty more to take its place.

I enjoy reading books from start to finish, one book at a time. But I’m not going to waste time. I finish books only if they align with what I’m trying to accomplish and aren’t a struggle to digest or comprehend.