For poets - read widely. And honestly, write widely, too. Don't just stick to forms of poetry you're comfortable with, because challenge helps you grow as a writer.
Though I may not be a poet with a long publication history or publication intent, I can say that by staying broad in what I read/write, I can get excited about each new poem more because I know there's a lot of variety behind my creative process. Also, I think this practice moves me towards writing works that transcend my own feelings and become (or seem to become at least) things that have a life of their own.
You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go... — Dr. Seuss
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