There’s one thing I know for a fact; you’re not getting any younger. Is there really enough value in watching reality TV shows that you spend a few hours (or more) in front of the television? Now of course some of the shows can be informative but the majority? Definitely not worth the time.

Instead, I challenge you to take an hour, grab a book, and read. I’ll be the first to admit that reading is not my thing. Heck, if I could have everything in video or audio form, that would be sweet! Let’s not kid ourselves – somethings are better in text form anyway. But lately I’ve began doing the unthinkable – picking up a book and swallowing up the content. And I must say that I’m actually enjoying it.

You’re probably wondering what exactly it is that I’m reading, right? As this probably isn’t a shocker, I’m not really reading for “fun” per say but instead for motivation, keeping up my drive, staying connected with other entrepreneurs, and trying to remain up-to-speed.  A couple months ago the book I picked up and read through in a couple days was Crush It by Gary Vaynerchuk, and you can read my Crush It review if you’re interested in hearing about the book. Currently, I’m reading Rework by the co-founder of 37Signals, Jason Fried, and Partner, David Heinemeier Hansson. Seeing as I’m only about 50 pages into the book thus far there isn’t a whole lot I can share, but what I’ve read up to this point is awesome. For the early entrepreneur, the enthusiastic go-getter, the type of person who loves making this happen and seeing the results, this book is  a perfect fit. Generally speaking it’s a testament to those who are trying to build a product, service, and/or business with little money, a team made up of 1-3 people, and even those who think spending 80 hours a week working is crazy. If you fit any of those molds…get this book and then let me know what you find most interesting.

Spending that extra 2 hours a week, flipping open those pages in a book such as Rework or Crush It can absolutely change your life. It’s not about some grand ole’ plan to determine your path but instead get your off your butt, moving towards what you want to accomplish. Life is short and the TV can certainly be put aside.

Those who know me the best will certainly agree that I don’t read often or even a book a month, or 6 months for that matter. Honestly, reading isn’t my “thing” – it’s not for me, I feel it’s not productive, but that’s who I am. Having me sit down for about 3 hours total was hard enough for me but I’m glad I did it.

Several months ago, maybe 8 – 10, I somehow landed on winelibrary.com but for some reason I did not stick around. A couple months later I believe I was on Twitter and heard about Gary again so I went back and checked it out. It was at that time when I saw one of the videos with the appearance on the Ellen Degeneres show and Conan O’Brien – I was impressed and entertained. From there I stuck around and have watched MANY more of both his Gary Varynerchuk AND WineLibrary videos.

Continuing to listen and pay attention to Gary has been somewhat inspirational but certainly motivational. Starting with an idea that had no guarantees on the success, it has flourished into a huge following on several platforms such as twitter, facebook and of course the winelibrary AND Gary Vaynerchuk websites.

The book isn’t a 300 page, bloated read that takes several chapters just to get into anything useful. Instead it gets to the point, nearly immediately – after the first couple pages of gratitude and thanks to his family, friends and contacts. In fact, the book is about 135 pages that really stand out past the common fluff you find in many other books about business and marketing.

One great part of the book is that Gary talks about his experience – how he basically went from nothing, hustled, and got to where he is today. Now, to be entirely honest, it may have been easier for Gary to do this as there was already revenue flowing. For people who have nothing to start with, they may find it harder to tackle a similar model to what Gary did…but there are creative ways to go around that of course.

While you learn about Gary’s experience he also tells you what to do (at least what worked for him). Some of you may be struggling to find that magical formula or maybe you’re keeping your fingers crossed it will fall into your lap. Whatever it is your thinking, if you’re ready to hustle, Gary will lead you down that path. And when I say hustle, you’re probably underestimating what that means.

Learning how hard Gary worked between creating content, traveling, connecting with people, having online discussions, etc., it was eye-opening. Personally I’ve learned that my work ethic needs improvement if I compare myself.

So what do I suggest?

- If you’re stuck at a job you don’t like…
- If you’re unhappy with your work situation…
-If you want a better lifestyle…

…and you are ready to work for it…

…pick up “Why now is the time to Crush It! Cash in on your passion” by Gary Vaynerchuk. Read it through, absorb what he says, and drop the excuses.

And no, I have no affiliation with his book.