Loved the book.... now what?

Often times we turn to books to solve a problem or to learn more about a subject.  Then, if the book engages us, we get inspired.  We get hungry for more knowledge and eager to progress to the next step.  Read the next book.  Read books recommended by the one we just read.  Read read read... absorb all we can.  But when do we stop and actually apply what we've read. 

The next time you read a book, I would recommend the following tactic:

1. Don't read the book all in one sitting.  Read a chapter or two at a time.  Then stop and allow yourself time to absorb what you've just read. 
2. Apply principals you've learned immediately.  Try them out.  Often times books build you up to more complex topics as you go along.  Having a good grasp of earlier topics will help you better understand the book going forward.  Otherwise you may burn out and only make it through a few chapters before losing interest.
3. When you finish the book, if it's not too long, reread it.  You'll almost always find something that you missed the first time around.
4. The next step after reading the book is NOTHING.  There is no other books to read or steps to take that you haven't read in that book.  Start applying what you've learned right away and don't wait for more information to become available.  You've read the book.  Now apply what you've learned.
5. Lastly, if it's a good book, share your thoughts with a friend or colleague.  Recommend the book and sit down with them after to discuss it.  It's always nice to get a fresh perspective on a book.

Now, I'm going to apply step 5 and recommend some books to you.  They're not computer programming books, but I promise you they are applicable for all walks of life.  Click on the recommended reading books listed on the right.  QBQ and Who Moved My Cheese should be on EVERYONES library.  If you don't have these books, get them today.  Read them and share them with others!