How Reading Can Improve Your Life When You Make It A Daily Habit

It's no secret that reading has a plethora of benefits. It can make you more intelligent and empathetic and even help you live longer. But in today's fast-paced world, finding the time to crack open a book can be challenging.

If you're not someone who naturally gravitates towards reading, it can be tough to establish the habit. That's why today, we're going to explore some of the reasons you should make reading a daily routine and how you can easily integrate it into your life.

The Benefits of Reading Daily

As we mentioned before, reading has a whole host of benefits. Not only can it make you smarter, but it can also reduce stress levels, improve your memory, and even help you live longer.

Studies have shown that reading can help slow the progression of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia and stave off cognitive decline in old age. It can also lower your blood pressure and heart rate and reduce your risk of developing anxiety or depression.

Here are some other ways that reading can help you:

1. It can make you more empathetic.

Reading fiction can help improve your ability to understand and share the feelings of others. For example, in one study, people who read literary fiction showed a greater understanding of others' emotions.

In contrast, people who read non-fiction showed no increase in empathy. So if you're looking to improve your emotional intelligence, reach for a novel instead of a history book.

2. It will make you a better writer (and probably a better speller).

Good readers make good writers. When you read regularly, you encounter different writing styles and learn new vocabulary words. As a result, your writing improves both in terms of style and substance. And as a bonus, you're likely to become a better speller too!

3. It can help relieve stress.

Numerous studies have shown that reading can help reduce stress levels. In one study, participants who read for just six minutes saw their stress levels decrease by 68%. So next time you feel overwhelmed, try reaching for a book instead of scrolling through Instagram.

In short, reading is good for you. And if you're looking for ways to incorporate it into your life, I've also got some tips.

Tips for Making Reading a Daily Habit

One of the best ways to ensure you're reading daily is to keep books in strategic locations around your house or office. That way, when you have a few moments of downtime, you can quickly grab it and get lost in its pages.

Another great tip is to make use of audiobooks and ebooks. If traditional books aren't your thing, try listening to audiobooks while commuting or working out. Or download a few ebooks onto your phone or tablet, so you always have something to read when you're on the go.

Another way to ensure that you're reading daily is to set aside some time for reading. Whether it's 20 minutes before bed or first thing in the morning, carving out some dedicated time will help make sure that reading gets priority in your busy schedule.

Finally, try joining or starting a book club with some friends or colleagues. Not only will this hold you accountable, but it'll also give you something fun and social to look forward to each month. 

Reading has countless benefits, but in today's fast-paced world, it can be tough to find the time to pick up a book. If you're looking for ways to make reading a daily habit, I've got some tips. From keeping books in strategic locations around your house to using audiobooks and ebooks, there are plenty of ways to fit reading into your busy schedule. So what are you waiting for? Start reaping the rewards of daily reading today!