How to Choose a Book to Read
If you’re anything like me, choosing which book to read next out of all the available options can be a very daunting task.
Going alphabetically seems like the best way to work your way down the shelf, until you get to D and realize that will be a good two years until you can read anything other than Charles Dickens. As enjoyable as Dickens may be, reading the same author each and every day can make even your favorite novel read like the dictionary.
Instead, choose your next book at random using the random number generator.
Here’s how it works: Count the number of unread books you have. (This will be a lot easier if you separate read and unread books.) If you already have an idea of what kind of book you want to read — namely fiction or non-fiction — then only count the number of unread books in that section. Jot this number on a Post-It note and affix it to your bookshelf for future reference.
Fill in the random number generator form as follows, replacing “278″ with the number of unread books you have, and click the “Get Numbers” button.
It will return one random number from within the range you specified. Return to your bookshelf and read the book associated with that number. (For example, if it returns “8″ you would read the eighth unread book on the shelf.)
Since, presumably, you eventually want to read every book that you own, this is a great way to add some variety and even inject some anticipation into your next reading selection.
Action Item:
Use the random number generator right now to select which book you’ll read next. (Second to that, put a reminder note on your bookshelf.)
(Photo by saltygal.)
Explore New Caffeination Possibilities
Every day, you’re at the coffee shop ordering the same old thing. Why not try something new?
The next time you’re in line, ask the barista to surprise you with any coffee on the menu … her pick. (If she seems hesitant, ask her to make her favorite; in my experience they’re usually quite willing to shake things up for you!)
What’s the worst that can happen? You try a new coffee flavor, and you don’t like it — then you can go back and get your original preference. But more than likely, you might discover that you like that new syrup / blend / tea just fine, and you’ve added to your future caffeination options.
(I’ve had both experiences when asking to be surprised … I fell in love with vanilla soy lattes at a Tully’s in downtown Seattle, but I still remember the Orange Creme Frappucino at a Starbucks in Twin Falls, Idaho that tasted like Triaminic — blech.)
If you usually drink flavored or blended coffees, you should try it black! It’s admittedly an acquired taste, but once you’ve powered through the first few weeks, you’ll leave the creams — and the associated calories — at the coffee bar.
Action Item:
Put a Post-It note on your coffee rewards, Starbucks, or credit card reminding you to be surprised the next time you order coffee.
(Photo by Ahmed Rabea.)