When was the last time you read a book—or even just a really good article in a magazine? These days, most of us scroll through social media, news apps, or message updates instead of sitting down with something meaningful to read.
But if we don't build a reading habit, we're honestly missing out big time. So today, let's go through 10 real, practical reasons why reading every day is one of the best things we can do for ourselves.
Reading Keeps Our Minds Sharp
Think of your brain like a muscle—it needs regular workouts to stay strong. Studies show that mentally stimulating activities, like reading, can help slow down or even prevent memory issues like Alzheimer's or dementia. Just like we stretch and move to stay fit, reading keeps our brains active and healthy.
It Helps Us Destress
No matter what we're dealing with—work stress, family drama, or just the chaos of everyday life—reading can give us a break. Getting lost in a good story pulls us into another world, helping us forget our worries for a while. Whether it's a novel or a fascinating article, that focus helps our body and mind relax.
We Pick Up More Knowledge
Every time we read, we're adding new info to our mental toolbox. You never know when something you read might come in handy! Plus, knowledge sticks with us. Even if we lose money, jobs, or other things in life, no one can take away what we know.
It Builds Our Vocabulary
The more we read, the more words we're exposed to. Over time, those words naturally become part of our everyday speech. That means we express ourselves better, feel more confident, and even perform better at work. For anyone learning a new language, reading also helps with fluency and understanding how words fit in different situations.
Reading Improves Memory
When we follow a story, we have to remember characters, plot points, and different details. This might sound like a lot, but our brains are great at handling it! In fact, keeping track of storylines creates new brain connections and strengthens the ones we already have. That boosts both memory and mood.
It Sharpens Our Thinking
Have you ever guessed the twist in a mystery novel before the reveal? That's your brain using logic and analysis. When we read, we naturally practice critical thinking: sorting clues, evaluating the storyline, and even forming opinions. These skills are useful far beyond books—they help us in conversations, decisions, and problem-solving too.
Reading Teaches Focus
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get distracted. We jump from emails to texts to social media constantly. But reading is different. When we're into a book, we focus. Everything else fades out. Even reading just 15–20 minutes during a commute can improve our concentration throughout the day.
It Improves Our Writing
Good writers are usually good readers. When we read great writing, we learn about tone, flow, and how to structure ideas. Just like musicians are inspired by each other's work, we get better at writing by soaking in other people's styles and storytelling.
It Calms Our Emotions
Reading can be incredibly soothing. Some books help us feel seen, others give us hope, and some simply bring peace. Whether it's a spiritual book or a motivational story, reading can lower stress levels, help with anxiety, and lift our mood in gentle ways.
Books Are Free Fun
Who says fun has to cost money? Sure, we love buying books, but libraries are amazing (and totally free). They've got all kinds of topics, and many offer eBooks, too—so we can read on a phone, tablet, or computer from anywhere. There's always something new to discover!
Lykkers, no matter what you're into—poetry, novels, fashion magazines, biographies, or self-help books—there's always a book out there that can grab your imagination. So let's try something: put down your phone for a bit, pick up a book, and give your mind a refreshing escape. Even just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. What's the next book on your list?
Let me know what you're reading lately!
Reading Changes your Brain, let me explain.
Video by Dr Jack Close
