How to Coach Your Client to Curate Their Library
To “curate” goes beyond simply arranging books on a shelf; it means making intentional choices about the authors and works that have deeply impacted you. This process invites you to recognize the transformative potential of the written word in shaping your journey. At its core, the term “curate” conveys a role of stewardship, of taking care of something precious—your intellectual and spiritual development. That’s the essence of this endeavor.

Written By Gary Reinecke

ICF Master Certified Coach, Resource Designer, Mission Strategist : InFocus

A decade ago, I undertook the formidable journey of curating my extensive library. My goal? To concentrate on the books that hold genuine meaning and purpose, drastically trimming my collection by 80%. The concept was straightforward: retain the essentials, digitize the “maybe” books, and liberate valuable shelf space. Yet the reality? It was tough. Countless nights were spent reflecting and weighing my choices, stress shadowing my every decision. But I pushed through, and I completed the task.

I want to share my insights from this experience, so that you can learn it for yourself, and then give you some tips on how to coach others.  But first, let’s delve into why curating your library is crucial for your growth as a leader.

Why curate a library?

What you choose to read reflects your identity and evolving self. It acts as a mirror to your inner world. We can draw many parallels here! Think about how you allocate your time and the individuals within your inner circle; your reading habits are intrinsically connected to your personal growth.

Curating your library provides you with the chance to:

  1. Unleash a deep reservoir of knowledge: In today’s information-saturated world, it’s impossible to absorb everything that comes your way. Instead, focus on what resonates with you and aligns with your vision as a leader. Engage deeply with wisdom from those who have paved the way before you, allowing this intentional reading to cultivate a well of understanding you can tap into for years to come.
  1. Empower others through wisdom: As leaders, we often feel the pressure to remain well-informed and articulate across diverse subjects. Knowing which voices to listen to and which authors to prioritize becomes essential in guiding those you mentor. Your carefully curated library can serve as a vital resource for their development and growth.

A Reflection Exercise:

Take a moment to consider your own faith journey. Which authors have profoundly influenced you? Yes, the Bible undoubtedly stands at the forefront, but beyond its pages, which books have shaped your character, guided your discipleship, sparked theological insights, motivated your mission, enhanced your leadership, challenged your perspectives, or blessed your spirit?

Reflect on these prompts: Who has God used in your life to…

  • mold your character?
  • shape your discipleship?
  • challenge your theological understanding?
  • ignite your mission?
  • enhance your leadership capacity?
  • prompt you to think differently?
  • bring you joy or peace?

This list serves as your starting point. Take time to answer each query thoughtfully, compile names, and discover your unique approach to this reflective process. The key is to grant this effort the attention and care it deserves as you shape your intellectual landscape and mentor others effectively.

Here’s a refined list of some of my favorites:—

Key Resources for Your Leadership Journey:

  • *Life Together* by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
  • *Master Plan of Evangelism* by Robert Coleman
  • *The Coming Church Revolution* by Carl George
  • “Christian Coaching Essentials” by Robert Logan and Gary Reinecke
  • *As You Go…Make Disciples* by Colin Noyes

Five Steps to Coach your Clients to Curate Their Library to Empower Leaders

  1. Reflect: Take a moment to consider the authors and books that have significantly influenced your approach and ministry. Who has shaped your understanding of leadership and discipleship?
  1. Narrow: From your reflections, choose the essential titles that deserve a place on your shelf. These are the works you find yourself revisiting time and again for inspiration and guidance.
  1. Box it Up: Carefully pack the remaining books into boxes. This process helps you in evaluating what you truly need versus what is simply taking up space.
  1. The Year of Testing: Commit to a year of observation. Track which books you reach for and which ones stay untouched. This will give you valuable insights into your current needs as a mentor.
  1. The Great Cull: At the end of the year, take stock. Decide which books served their purpose and which did not. Consider donating those to a promising emerging leader who could benefit from them.

By following these steps, you can help clients you coach create a focused library that will not only enrich their own development but also empower those they lead.

Cover Photo by Pixabay

Photo by Pixabay

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