Why I love to Read Autobiographies and Memoirs
Quite often my father ask me this question— why I love to read autobiographies and memoirs? One can always find me reading about one or other person’s experiences. Be it of a politician, businessman, entrepreneur, sportsperson, adventurer, spiritual gurus — I love to read about them all.
I look forward to learn from other’s journey — what they did, why they did, what they went through — highs and lows, setbacks and compromises, relationships and professional ambitions. There are so many angles to look at the same story from outside— so why not look at it from the lens of the protagonist itself. This is what fascinates me about this genre. And along the way, I also learn so much about the history, politics, geography, economics, social background, cultures that influenced their personality, up-bringing, decisions and made them who they are.
As I sit down to think of the reasons why this genre fascinates me, I came up with following reasons (no right or wrong). Hopefully, my dad will find these reasonable enough :-)
1. Inspirational:
Reading about the lives of successful and accomplished people can be an inspiring and motivating experience. You realise that life has not been as smooth to them as it seems now. Sometimes bad things happen and plans do fail. Sometimes, destiny takes a U-turn on dream run. In all such circumstances, what triggered these people to carry on? What mental, emotional and social support and strength they had to keep on going? What is in the DNA of some of the successful companies of the world? Reading about such journeys can makes me believe in myself and motivates me to work towards my goals. There are no shortcuts to success.
‘Muhammad Ali’, ‘Can’t Hurt Me’— to name a few, are examples of how an ordinary person became an extraordinary person with sheer will power, passion and discipline. Whereas ‘Shoe Dog’, an autobiography of co-founder of Nike Inc. provides a captivating and inspiring look at the creation and growth of one of the successful companies in the world.
2. Understanding Perspectives:
One of the exciting aspects of reading autobiographies and memoirs is that they are full of life lessons. These books provide an insights into the lives, thoughts and experiences of others. Be it a rag-to-riches story or about someone who continued the legacy, everyone have their own struggles and own battles to win. The authors are honest in sharing their experiences that shaped them and the qualities to which they owe their success and contentment. I gain valuable knowledge, perspectives and wisdom about the world from reading such accounts.
Memoirs like ‘Man’s search for meaning’ by Vicktor Frankl, had a profound impact on me — gave me a unique insight into the strong mindset of a holocaust survivor. Whereas ‘Mein Kampf’, an autobiographical manifesto by Adolf Hitler provides another perspective of why a proud nationalist pursued on his mission to make the world pay for all perceived wrong doings and make things right for Germany post WW 1.
3. Personal Growth:
Reading about personal and professional development of others serves as an eye-opener on the areas of self-development and growth. By reflecting on the experiences of others, I gain greater self-awareness and better understanding of my own experiences and emotions.
When I read ‘Leading’ by Sir Alex Ferguson, one of the best soccer coaches, I learned so much more about the characteristics of a successful leader than any leadership book. He shared his wisdom backed by practical application of the tips which are applicable and equally effective in any other profession. Similarly, when I read ‘the Autobiography of a Yogi’, I realised there is so much more to explore in the world of yoga and spirituality than I knew.
Why not give it a try!
I hope you find my rationale of reading autobiographies convincing enough. If you haven’t read any autobiographies or memoirs, I would request you to give it a shot. There’s so much to explore and learn and we can definitely take someone else’ experience into account to improve our own lives.
