With technology advancing and paper on its way to becoming nearly obsolete, sometimes the value of a good book is often forgotten. However, if you remember the value of reading, it’s effects will never cease.

It’s Circle Time

From the circle time rug in kindergarten to the corner of the school’s library in college, there were a lot of times that I had to read. As I got older, I continued reading but not because someone told me to – it became a choice, I began to have my own ‘circle time, if you will. The adults around us read to us or gave us books to read for our enjoyment, understanding, to challenge us, and to guide us – we can still revel in those same things by reading today!

So, here’s the big question we’ve all been waiting on – when’s the last time you read a book?! Not mandatory, but by choice you decided to just read. I understand that you’ve probably been in a rush the past two years with the pandemic, keeping your children healthy, educated, and entertained, staying alive yet active, and more – but this is such a big thing that requires a little bit of dedication.

Get Booked

Now let’s get thinking! What’s something you’ve always wanted to learn about but never did? Is there a historical figure you’ve wanted to know more about? What about a new skill? Ever read a murder mystery? How about a book on healing or personal wellness? The possibilities are literally endless! Take into account digital downloads and audiobooks – there’s literally no stopping you and the knowledge you have access to. I’m getting excited for YOU just thinking about it.

Please, by all means, allow this [InspirAction] to inspire you into reading, however, set a realistic reading goal that works for you! If you’re currently not an avid reader, maybe a goal of ‘4 Large Romantic Novels’ a week is not the best place to start 😅Try out these tips below to get you started:

1. Choose books that you actually like and are genuinely interested in
2. Set a reasonable reading goal, like starting out with one book a month
3. Give yourself a number of pages to complete each day in order to stay on task (ex. a 200 page book = 6-7 pages a day for a ‘one book a month’ goal)
4. Create an environment that keeps you comfortable yet alert
5. Make a list of books you are interested in reading next
6. Consider creating a ‘Reading Time’ for you and your entire family to start a new group activity

Go visit your local library or download the best app for you. Either way you do it – just READ. Give yourself the gift of knowledge with the added benefits of stress relief, sharpening your mind and personal down time. You’ll be glad you did.