Benefits of Reading

The public library is a phenomena that to this day I still can’t get over. Free knowledge, for anyone. Literally, anyone. I can’t think of an equivalent other than going to a clothing store, “checking out” an outfit. Except books are so much better than clothes.
Recently I’ve been on a huge reading kick, checking out anything I can get my hands on in the Cross-word store near my office. I’ve found that no matter what I read, the act of reading every day has helped me in nearly every aspect of my life.

Enhanced Smarts: Apart from high general knowledge this has other advantages too. Reading is an excellent way to get where you’re wanting to go. People who read are generally more acceptable as they’re fun to be around with so many things to talk of. What better way to be a favourite and life of a group.
Reading reduces stress: When I’m reading a book, my mind shifts gears. Where I might have a had a stressful day, a book can easily distract me. Fiction is fantastic for this. Reading an awesome fiction book is perfect right before bed time.
Greater tranquility: Reading can soothe like no other. Given that I’m a pretty high-energy person, reading forces me to sit and be still. This daily act of making myself be quiet and still has been nothing short of miraculous for my anxiety.
Increased vocabulary: It’s no secret that reading increases your vocabulary and improves your spelling, but did you know that reading increases your vocabulary more than talking or direct teaching? Increased vocabulary is especially crucial for people like me who are trying their hand at blogging or writing. Knowing what other people are saying and using the perfect words to convey your feelings is a critical part of being a better human. Better listeners are more successful in life.
Improved memory: I have an awful memory, ask my colleagues. I usually can’t remember names and addresss. Yet I’ve been finding that I can remember stuff much easier when I’ve been reading consistently. I try to connect names with some fiction character I read about, this works for me. May work for you too.
Improved writing skills: This isn’t much of a stretch, considering that reading improves vocabulary and critical thinking. That’s why English classes in High School make you read “the classics”. The more you read, the better of a writer you’ll become.
Helps prioritize goals: Many times we’re certain we know what we “really want” in life. Yet I’ve found that activities like reading show me things I didn’t know about myself. My mind will drift to things that I’d really like to do. The same sort of goals keep popping into my head, allowing me to see what I really want to do.
No time? No money?
If you think that you don’t have enough time to start reading, you’re wrong. How do I know? Because we make time for the things that are important to us. How much TV do you watch? How much time do you spend trawling the web? You could easily replace reading with those activities.
If you’re worried about the cost of books, check them out at the local library. Most libraries lend books for a period for a nominal fee.
Also you can check with your friends who read so that you can exchange books without actually buying all the books. Just keep in mind, both your interests match

There’s really no excuse to start reading on a regular basis. The benefits far outweigh the costs, and more knowledge never hurt anybody.