I’ve noticed that this applies to people who earn a living online more than to other individuals. But before I start, I just want to make one thing perfectly clear: I’m not saying you shouldn’t read/learn.

I love reading.

I learn new things pretty much every day.

*BUT*

… and yes, there’s a “but” unfortunately.

The problem is that most people, due to fear of failure and other reasons, end up using reading/learning as an excuse.

An excuse to procrastinate, an excuse to avoid taking action.

On the one hand, they don’t want to feel that they’re not doing anything but on the other hand, they’re afraid of failure. Therefore, excessive reading/learning gives them a comforting feeling, they consider it the best of both worlds. On the one hand, you’re at least doing *something* but on the other hand, there’s no pressure because you’re not putting anything at risk.

This way of thinking is a huge mistake.

As of a certain point, you have to stop reading and start doing.

You have to stop learning from mistakes others made and make your own.

One personal mistake will teach you more than ten books.

Reading/learning is great as long as you understand that as of a certain point, you have to put what you learned to good use. It won’t be easy but it’s the only way.

Again, don’t get me wrong: I read thousands upon thousands of pages each year and encourage you to read a lot as well.

Reading is great as long as you don’t use it as an excuse, as long as you don’t hide behind books to avoid confronting your fears.