Books and the Journey to Find How to Write

The Issue

When you think of books, what comes to mind first? Textbooks with fundamental knowledge? Scientific books with new and exciting information, or a well-drawn story with an engaging plot? For me, books are like a treasure trove of knowledge, opening up many useful insights.

I know that some people feel "uncomfortable" when it comes to self-help books. The term "self-help" refers to books aimed at personal development, which, if followed, could make you a "better" person. For them, these things seem distant and unattainable. They say that reading self-help books is like attending a multi-level marketing class, where you can enthusiastically chant a few slogans, but in reality, when someone looks at you, you are no different from a "fool" and somewhat naive.

I suddenly remembered that, from the beginning until now, I haven't written any articles about reading books. Although my interests often mention that I enjoy reading, and occasionally in my articles, readers may see me "showing off" my love for reading. If you're curious about why I like to read, what led me to read naturally, what genres I read, how I read... then right now, I'll be happy to share my experiences with everyone.

And if you've never read a book (except for textbooks or books that are required reading!), then don't rush to leave, because who knows, after reading, the dawn will shine brightly.

Enough talking...

Books

The first book I started reading was titled "From IQ to EQ," which discussed another aspect of intelligence called "emotional intelligence." People with a high EQ are usually very good at solving relationship-based problems. They value relationships and have a way of solving complex problems between people without harming anyone.

Going back more than 10 years, at that time, I was still a high school student, trying to write my first funny stories in the hope that they would be published someday. Of course, I also had many occasions to show them to friends and ask them to read and see if my stories were interesting. Although it's been a long time, I don't remember their reactions, but it was probably quite interesting because I don't remember any sad memories. And of course, no story was published because back then I didn't know how to contact anyone.

A bit older, I started writing tutorials on the internet, that's when I got to know simple web development. I would copy other people's articles, rework them, or sometimes write my own tutorials on adding certain effects to websites... until now, some articles still exist, and I don't bother to read them because they're... bad.

A few years ago, I never gave up my intention to write. The precursor to 2coffee before had a different interface and name, not as polished as this one. Because back then, I thought very simply: there's a place to write, and all I need to do is create a simple website, focusing on the text. If you scroll through the website, you can find my first articles; they're so simple that it's almost funny.

I didn't know how to write! That was the feeling after many times of being unable to write a sensible article with a personal touch. Although there were plenty of thoughts in my head, when I put my hands down, it would type out strange sentences. It was better not to read it than to strain my brain to understand what I was trying to convey. Many times, I thought I couldn't write well, and maybe the best way to write is to use a list-style, meaning bullet points and write as succinctly as possible, like the style of a programmer trying to save lines.

But I didn't give up my interests or passions; desperation was also the time I knew I had to do something. I turned to books because I heard that reading would help me write better. I doubted this, like many people do about self-help. Overcoming prejudices, I started reading books.

But here's the strange thing: to write better, people usually turn to art or literature books, with a lot of literary techniques and wordplay. At that time, I thought I should read a book that I found interesting based on its title first, and if it was okay, I would continue reading. That's why I read "From IQ to EQ."

Fortunately, that book was very easy to read, the sentences were so captivating that I only took 2-3 days to finish it. I read it in the evening, after coming home from work and before getting ready for bed. I turned the page, wanting to finish the next page, and I was like being drawn into the stream of words. Sometimes I forgot the time, and it was already midnight, and I knew I had to go to bed if I wanted to wake up for work the next day.

Until now, even though work and family have become busier, and I can't finish a book in 2-3 days anymore, I still maintain the habit of reading every day and keep searching for new books. I meet and make friends with people who share the same interests, sharing stories and other interesting books with each other.

Writing is a long journey, not something that improves significantly overnight. The learning journey is still long ahead, by reading and writing more, I hope that one day I can be confident in my writing skills. Readers also play an important role in this journey, under each article, there is a rating box, please actively click on it to let me know if you are satisfied with the writing style or how the content is delivered.

Reaping the Rewards

By now, I have reaped the first results from maintaining this habit. The most noticeable thing is the ability to write. Compared to the beginning, I can confidently say that my approach is now completely different. The evidence is that you can try clicking on this link.

Through books, I have learned many things that I thought I already knew. Books provide a lot of content that I had never heard of before. It's still a simple matter, but through the presentation and persuasive style of the authors, I feel that something is really right. For example, everyone knows what it's like to listen to others, but are you sure you're really "listening" to what others are saying?

I must say that books organize knowledge very well, not just concepts anymore, but authors are usually experts in their field, and somehow they have to persuade the readers. For me, a good book isn't one that many people look for but simply one that convinces me.

From now on, if I want to delve deeper into a particular field, my first choice will be books. Find a book to read, read it, and if you're not satisfied, look for another one. Not all books are good, not all books are suitable for everyone, so if you buy a book that you think is bad, find another one. If all books are good, isn't the world full of outstanding people?

And finally, my favorite genres of books are psychology, history, and philosophy. Lately, I've been reading literary books, and it's really good. I must say that those who use pens to paint the world in their imagination are admirable. That's also what I'm aiming for.

Conclusion

Above is my sharing about the process of turning to books. I must say that before, I never thought I would read, but when I was desperate about my writing skills, it was also the time I felt like I was entering a new world. I wish I could go back a few years, holding a book in my hand, gently placing it on the study table, and outside, there were still notes: "your issue here!"