When you think of spring break, what do you think of? For me, its usually lying on the beach. This year we chose to stay home, and do a few things here in Colorado. So rather than reading a traditional business book this week, I picked up a copy of The Alchemist by Paulo Choelho. 
How I missed this book all of these years, I’ll never know. It’s a quick read, and a great story that teaches you about life.
One of my favorite quotes:
“To show you one of life’s simple lessons,” the alchemist answered. “When you possess great treasures within you, and try to tell others of them, seldom are you believed.”
I remember sitting in one of my very first seminars when we started our photography business. The speaker said, “I’m giving you the exact formula I’ve used for my business. Yet I know less than 5 percent of you will try any of this, much less all of it. Don’t be the 95 percent.”
I never forgot that quote. How could anyone not take advice from someone who is giving it freely? But it was true.
- Some of the information I simply wasn’t ready for.
- Some of the information didn’t apply to me yet.
- Some of the information I simply didn’t understand.
And so I too didn’t use the majority of what I learned.
The Alchemist walks you through the life of a shepherd who is on his quest to find his personal treasure. Unlike most people, he trusts his instincts, and continues on his journey. When he finds “treasure” on his journey, he doesn’t get sidetracked into believing he has what he needs. Instead, he continually puts things on hold until he achieved his goal, and finds his own personal treasure.
We all have our own personal treasure. Unfortunately life often gets in the way and we give up on our dreams. Even success isn’t the ultimate goal unless it’s what you’ve always dreamed of achieving.
This is a book to read again and again. I’ve added it to my daughter’s summer reading list. And I know I’ll be reading it again soon. Every read will have a different meaning. And isn’t that the point? We always need to be reminded that we can achieve our dreams if we stick to the plan.
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