Most claim to be an expert, but few are willing to back it up with results.

Stop reading, start executing.

I have a friend who wakes up early to read books and listen to podcasts about the topics he enjoys, including those relating to business and entrepreneurship.

It’s a routine I know well; I too am passionate about learning. But for my friend, nothing was really moving forward for him in a significant way.

He was devouring knowledge but failing to act on what he was learning; his business life was in stasis.

That’s why, when he recently asked a group of peers for feedback during a conference call, I commented to him,

"It's time to put the books down, find a mentor, and actually get to work."

At first, everyone on the call was surprised, maybe even a bit put-off by my suggestion. But after some discussion, they agreed.

Execute on What You Learn.

This emphasis on acquiring knowledge but then doing nothing with it, is a phenomenon I see too often.  

Reading books and listening to podcasts are great, but learning purely for the sake of learning is simply infotainment. Whether it is learning about successful business strategies or how to care for your first baby, what matters most is what you choose to do after you've gained that knowledge.

Just read? Or execute? Only one of those options leads to results.

For me, if I had to choose between reading books or executing, I would execute.

Self-Made Millionaires.

Despite the value of books – which provide a reference of what has occurred and worked in the past – I have been struck by the fact that nearly all the millionaires I have met at Mastermind events are self-made. They rarely hold a PhD or are long-time career employees who moved up the ranks (although some did start this way for a brief stint). In fact, many have limited formal education.

Rather, they are very mission-based, and have achieved success through their own efforts.

The mere fact of being highly educated is not sufficient to create business success.

You can't read or listen your way to millionaire status. Business success is all about taking massive action on your visions. Sure, read and learn. But then you must take the next step and jump in.

Beyond Books: Find a Mentor

After reading books and listening to podcasts, it is time to find a mentor to help you execute on your ideas. A good mentor, such as a successful colleague whom you respect, can help you get off the couch and start taking action. Find someone who is already doing what you want to do, and reach out to them. Ask them to take you under their wing. Shadow them. Ask them to connect you with others who are doing what you want to do. Update them on your progress frequently. Add value to them. Send them gifts. Find a way for them to care about you and help you on your journey.

Recognize Who is a Good Mentor.

When choosing a mentor, whether an informal one or a paid mentor, be very aware that there are many people who create an illusion of success when, in reality, that may be just a show for their ego.

We live in a world where everyone is claiming to be an expert, but few are willing to back that up with results.

When you're finding your mentor, make sure that you understand their level of validity. Are they the best at what they do? How do you know? What are the metrics you need to find out in order to be sure? Who else do they associate with? Is there someone else who would be even better? Dig deep. And then dig deeper. 

Then, armed with both knowledge and a mentor, go forth and make it happen for yourself.

That’s a much better path to success than simply keeping your head down and your nose in the books.