Why Reading is More Than Just a Hobby For Me At This Point

Why Reading is More Than Just a Hobby For Me At This Point

Read time: 4 mins

My world nowadays are filled with trips, conference rooms and having conversations with a lot of different people. It is constantly moving and full of busy days with deadlines. But, there is one place I can find solace in. Yes, nestled within the pages of a book lies a sanctuary waiting to be explored. Reading to me isn’t just a leisurely pastime; it’s also a gateway to inspiration, creativity, and self-discovery. Join me as we delve into the multifaceted benefits of embracing the written word.

Cultivating an Easy Habit: 

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, establishing habits that nourish our minds and souls is essential. Fortunately, reading is one of the simplest habits to adopt. Whether it’s a few pages before bed or a chapter during your lunch break or on a plane, carving out time for reading is an investment in yourself. By making reading a regular part of your routine, you’ll not only expand your knowledge but also cultivate a sense of discipline and focus.

I always love reading, ever since my sixth grade. And nowadays, it’s hard to imagine me on a plane without a book on my hand. Books are my companions. They can’t speak to me, but I certainly get to experience multiple lives through them. Also, remember Naval’s words “Read what you love until you love to read.” If you start out as comic books, that’s fine. Keep in mind, you never have to dive headfirst into big, complicated subject.

Igniting Creativity: 

Have you ever found yourself lost in the vivid landscapes of a novel or captivated by the eloquence of a poem? Reading has a remarkable ability to spark our imagination and ignite our creativity. As we immerse ourselves in different narratives and perspectives, we’re exposed to new ideas, cultures, and ways of thinking. These encounters with the written word fuel our imagination, encouraging us to explore untapped realms of possibility in our own lives.

I had a Literature professor back in college. He said something along this line “Authors and writers are who can predict the future.” Thinking back on this sentence, I think it’s true. Aren’t our technologies that we use on a daily basis had been described before they came about? One example is that cellphones were created by the inspiration in “Star Trek.” There are many more such as submarines, tasers, the internet, etc. Things started with imagination from the people who wrote the books, scripts, etc.

A Journey of Self-Reflection: 

Beyond its entertainment value, reading serves as a mirror through which we can examine ourselves and the world around us. As we engage with characters navigating their own trials and triumphs, we’re prompted to reflect on our own experiences, beliefs, and values. Through the lens of literature, we gain insights into the human condition, fostering empathy and understanding. Whether it’s a poignant memoir or a thought-provoking essay, each page turned offers an opportunity for self-discovery and growth.

I don’t know if it’s because I’m approaching the age of 30 but these recent years, I self-reflect and ponder a lot. From the thoughts of ‘What can I improve?’ or ‘What can I do?’ or ‘Did I make helpful decision or was it a drawback?’ to ‘Human species are blessed and cursed at the same time with our intelligence.’ I just finished the book “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind.” And it makes me ponder even more about my own life decision and humanity as a whole. I recommend to anyone who has not read this book. And the beautiful thing about this is that these are my thoughts and mine alone. You might have different perspectives and we can learn from each other. 

So, to cap everything off, this is a fast-paced world where time is a precious commodity, the act of reading offers a refuge from the chaos and a gateway to new horizons. By embracing reading as more than just a hobby, we unlock a world of possibilities — cultivating habits, igniting creativity, and embarking on a journey of self-reflection. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for your phone or scrolling mindlessly through social media, consider picking up a book instead (or an article, anything to read really). Who knows what wonders await within its pages?