Rewriting the Narrative: Embracing the Enchantment of Literature

Seven weeks away from the relentless pace of my role at Microsoft offered me a rare commodity: time. Time to reflect, breathe, and reevaluate the patterns that have come to define my daily life. One afternoon, I was tidying the tottering mountain of books on my bedside table—reading several dozen books a year is a life-long habit of mine cultivated early by being homeschooled. Titles on leadership, market dynamics, and strategic innovation await my attention, each promising insight that could propel my career forward.

Yet, these books feel oddly out of place in the relative tranquility of my foster leave. They represent a world I am momentarily detached from, a sphere governed by KPIs, quarterly goals, and the ceaseless pursuit of efficiency. In a spontaneous act of renewal, I cleared them away and left only the volumes of fiction, poetry collections, and history chronicles that had been scattered throughout. This isn’t a purge; it is a deliberate context shift for the reading I do.

The Allure of Alternative Worlds

Immersing myself in fiction is like stepping through a portal into countless other lives and worlds. As J.R.R. Tolkien eloquently discusses in his essay "On Fairy-Stories," stories have the profound ability to grant us "escape" in the noblest sense—a liberation from the constraints of our immediate reality. Tolkien argues that this escape is not escapism but a way to regain a clearer view of the world, allowing us to see ordinary things with fresh eyes.

Through novels and short stories, I traverse landscapes both familiar and fantastical. I grapple with the moral dilemmas of complex characters, feel the weight of their choices, and celebrate their victories. These narratives rekindle my imagination, a faculty that easily retreats under the interminable tread of the day-to-day. They remind me that innovation often springs from the ability to envision possibilities beyond the conventional—a skill equally valuable in technology as it is in storytelling.

The Poetic Lens

Delving into poetry adds another dimension to my literary journey. Poems distill emotions and ideas into their most potent forms. They require me to slow down, to savor each word, and to contemplate meanings that aren't always immediately apparent. This practice of mindful reading sharpens my attention to detail and heightens my appreciation for nuance.

Moreover, poetry connects us to the universal human experience. As I read verses penned centuries ago, I am struck by the timelessness of certain themes—love, loss, joy, despair. This realization fosters a deeper empathy, an understanding that the core of human experience transcends time and culture. In a business context, this empathy is invaluable. It enhances our ability to connect with colleagues, understand customer needs, and lead with compassion.

Lessons from History

History books offer yet another layer of insight. They provide context for the present, highlighting patterns and cycles that have shaped human civilization. Understanding the successes and failures of the past equips us with the wisdom to navigate contemporary challenges more effectively. To paraphrase G.K. Chesterton, “refuse to submit to the small and arrogant oligarchy of those who merely happen to be walking about.”

Studying historical events and figures reveals the complexities of societal change, the intricacies of leadership, and the profound impact of individual and collective actions. These lessons are directly applicable to the modern business environment, where decisions can have far-reaching consequences.

Literature as Formation

In his recent letter on the role of literature in education, Pope Francis emphasizes that literature is not merely a subject to be studied but a vital tool for personal formation. He writes that literature "opens us to the unknown, fosters empathy, and helps us to see the world through the eyes of others." This resonates deeply with my experience during this decades-long reading journey.

By engaging with diverse narratives, I find myself more open to different perspectives. This openness is crucial in a global company like Microsoft, where collaboration across cultures and disciplines is the norm. Literature has the power to break down barriers, challenge prejudices, and promote a more inclusive mindset.

Rekindling Creativity and Innovation

The tech industry thrives on innovation, yet the pressures of deadlines and deliverables can stifle creative thinking. Immersing myself in the arts reignites my creative spark. Fiction and poetry encourage abstract thinking and the exploration of "what if" scenarios—essential components of problem-solving and innovation.

Tolkien believes that creative fantasy is a natural human activity, one that enriches reality rather than detracting from it. By allowing ourselves the freedom to imagine and to dream, we cultivate a mental environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish.

The Value of Rest and Reflection

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of this literary shift is the opportunity for genuine rest and reflection. Stepping away from work-related reading reduces mental fatigue and prevents burnout. It reminds me that productivity is not solely measured by hours worked or pages read but by the quality of thought and engagement we bring to our endeavors.

Integrating the Old with the New

As I prepare to return to my professional role, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a broader perspective. The insights gained from this conscious return to fiction, poetry, and history are not confined to personal enrichment; they have practical applications in leadership, strategy, and team dynamics.

I envision integrating these lessons into my work—approaching challenges with a fresh lens, fostering a culture of empathy within my team, and encouraging creative thinking. The business books aren’t far away; they're just at my desk, where they’ll inspire in their own context.

Conclusion

This experience reaffirms for me the importance of a balanced intellectual diet. Just as we nourish our bodies with a variety of foods, so too should we nourish our minds with diverse genres and disciplines. Literature, in all its forms, offers a wealth of knowledge and insight that complements and enhances professional expertise.

In the words of Pope Francis, literature helps us "to grow in humanity." As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, cultivating our humanity is not just beneficial but essential.

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What's on your bedside table? Perhaps it's time to make some room.