Improving speed reading skills [How to be an Original]
I read a lot as I like learning a lot. A great deal of the resources for learning are text-based (written) resources, much like this blog is a text-based resource as well. And as I have been caught by the productivity virus for a while now, and feel this is an area that needs improving: I want to get better at reading. There are several ways to do this:
Eliminate the unnecessary
In dealing with the vast amounts of text, I have already developed a habit to eliminate everything that’s not adding value to the standards I have set for myself (although I have to admit this is a sliding scale). These resources are not necessary for the learning process I am in. Actions I have undertaken:
- unsubscribe from most newsletters
- unsubscribe from some blogs
- stop visiting some websites
- select books to read for the coming period, get the rest out of sight
- rank books in order of most (expected) value
- get my name of most magazine circulation lists at work
This gave a real boost in my productivity. However this is not enough (anymore).
Read smarter
Scott H Young has a post on his blog about reading smarter. He opened my eyes to this habit, as I have been reading smart for a long time but wasn’t aware of it. Reading smarter is definitely a productivity boost.
Cranking up the speed
This is where my new challenge is. I’m a slow reader, always have been, but that will change! So the next step I’m taking up is to really learn how to speed read. I started in Tony Buzan’s book a couple of days ago, and my initial speed is 156 wpm (words per minute, Dutch). Yeah that sucks…
I have a goal to get to 500 wpm both in English and in Dutch (my native language) by June 17. The book says that 1000 wpm shouldn’t be a problem for most people, however with a 320% increase in speed in two languages I’m already very happy.
One of the best ways to get extra motivation for a habit change or for a goal, is to publicly announce it. Well this is one of those announcements, and I’ll keep you posted on my progress and on the resources I’ll be using along the way.
Original post here: Lodewijkvdb
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