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Brain Food Wednesdays: What Would Reading More Books Do for You?
Dear Reader,
In this week’s newsletter, the 145th issue, I’m writing about what reading more books do for you. I should have emphasized that I mean reading more of the right books, so please keep that in mind.
People often say they don’t read more books because of lack of time. But most times, when you probe more deeply, you’ll find their definition of reading is to read a nonfiction book from cover-to-cover. However, that’s not a good use of your time, since most nonfiction books don’t deserve that kind of time investment.
The problem is that too many books are loaded with repetition and fluff. It’s important to get over your FOMO (fear of missing out). Focus on your reason for reading the book, as well as the questions you’re hoping it will answer. After you’ve done that, it’s time to focus on the sections of the book that will give you more of what you need.
When you read this way, you’ll find that you’re now approaching old problems with new lenses. You’ll bring fresh insights and perspectives to the job. And the more ‘right’ books you read, the more patterns you’ll discover across books. There’s an added benefit because you’re more likely to see what others miss. Another benefit of reading this way is that you won’t lose your focus. You’re getting what you need from a book in a timely manner.
It’s important to step outside your silo of specialization. What this means is that if you’re in finance, you could also read books on global poverty, climate change, and gender parity in the workplace. You’ll also find connections among all these books. There are always themes to tie diverse books together. The gold lies at the intersection of the different topics.
Below, you’ll find the article I wrote, and I hope you find it helpful.
Ask Avil
What Would Reading More Books Do for You?
So what would reading more of the right books do for you? For one, it would make you more well-rounded. As you read different books, you’ll be exposed to new ideas and perspectives that you may not have considered before.
In a world where social media and television dominate most people’s leisure time, reading seems to be a thing of the past. However, reading has many benefits that are often overlooked. For example, reading can improve your brain function, make you more empathetic, and help reduce stress. If you’re looking for a way to improve your life, picking up a book may be the answer.
Reading books has been shown to have several benefits. These include reducing stress, improving memory and concentration, and increasing empathy. In addition, reading has also been linked with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
More Books = More Knowledge
Would reading more of the right books make you smarter? According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, people who read for pleasure are more likely to have higher levels of what is called “crystallized intelligence.” This is the intelligence that allows you to see relationships between things and to use knowledge practically.
So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your brain power, reading may be just the thing. And, luckily, there are plenty of great books out there to choose from. Pick up a book and get started on boosting your brain power today.
More Books = More Empathy
In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with news of violence and hatred, it’s easy to become desensitized. But what if there were a way to increase your empathy and understanding of others? According to a recent study, the answer may be as simple as reading more books.
The study, conducted by the New School for Social Research, found that people who read literary fiction are more likely to understand the emotions and perspectives of others. This ability is known as “theory of mind,” and it’s an important part of social intelligence.
So why does reading fiction seem to have such a positive effect on our ability to empathize with others? The researchers believe that it’s because fiction allows us to experience different lives.
More Books = Greater Understanding
Most people believe that reading more books would make them smarter and better informed about the world. However, they do not realize the other benefits that come with reading, such as gaining a greater understanding. When people read books, they are not just passively taking in information, but are actively engaging with the text.
This allows them to better understand the author’s message and perspective. In addition, readers can reflect on their own beliefs and values while considering new ideas from the book. By critically analyzing the text, readers can develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Ultimately, reading books can help people become more well-rounded and informed citizens of the world.
More Books = Improved Communication Skills
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the importance of communication skills. Whether you’re communicating with co-workers or customers, effective communication is key to success.
Interestingly, one way to improve your communication skills may be as simple as reading more books. Reading helps improve your vocabulary and grammar, both of which are important for effective communication. In addition, reading can help you better understand the nuances of communication, such as body language and tone of voice.
So if you’re looking to improve your communication skills, pick up a book and start reading. You may be surprised at just how much difference it makes.
More Books = A Richer Inner Life
A person who reads more books has a richer inner life. This is because reading books exposes a person to new ideas and different ways of thinking. In addition, reading books helps a person to develop empathy and understanding for others.
More Books = A Broader Worldview
Besides the intrinsic benefits of reading itself, such as mental stimulation and improved communication skills, reading also broadens your worldview.
Exposure to new and different ideas is one of the most important things that books can offer. When you read about other cultures, histories and viewpoints, it helps you to understand and empathize with people who differ from you. This is essential in today’s increasingly globalized world.
Books can also challenge your assumptions and help you think critically about the world around you. They can open your eyes to new perspectives and ways of thinking that you may never have encountered before. This makes reading such an invaluable habit – one that should be encouraged in everyone.
More Books = Improved Memory
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh tested the memories of over 700 people and found that those who read regularly had better memories than those who didn’t.
The study also found that people who read more were better at remembering names and faces, and had better verbal recall than those who didn’t read as much. So if you’re looking for a way to boost your memory, pick up a book. It just might help you remember more than you thought possible.
More Books = Emotional intelligence
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, it’s easy to forget the importance of reading. Reading allows us to slow down and process information in a way that is not possible when we are constantly multitasking. It also allows us to exercise our empathy and understanding, as we put ourselves in the shoes of the characters in the book.
Reading books can help improve our emotional intelligence, as well as our mental health. Studies have shown that people who read regularly are more likely to report higher levels of satisfaction with their lives. They are also less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.
So if you’re looking for a way to improve your emotional intelligence, pick up a book and start reading! You might just find that it makes a world of difference in your life.
More Books = Stronger Relationships
In a world that is filled with social media and constant entertainment at our fingertips, it’s easy to forget the importance of reading. Books provide us with an escape from reality, but also a way to learn about new cultures and worlds without having to leave our home. In addition, studies have shown that reading can improve relationships.
One study showed that people who read fiction had a better understanding of other people’s emotions than those who didn’t read at all. This ability to empathize with others is essential for maintaining strong relationships. Reading has been linked with relationship satisfaction and stability. Couples who read together reported feeling more connected to their partner and having more in-depth conversations.
Conclusion: The Many Benefits of Reading
A recent study has shown that reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by 68%. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with stressful stimuli, it’s important to relax and unwind. For many people, reading is the perfect way to do this.
Not only does reading reduce stress, but it also has a host of other benefits. Reading can improve your memory and concentration, increase your empathy and understanding of others, and even help you live longer. So if you’re looking for a way to improve your health and wellbeing, pick up a book today.
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Until Next Week,
Avil Beckford, Founder, The Invisible Mentor
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