Embracing the Journey of Reading: A Shift in Perspective
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Chapter 1: A New Approach to Reading
The most valuable advice I've received is to read! It’s said to transform your life, but for me, it didn’t quite have that effect.
I've never viewed myself as a passionate reader. Occasionally, a book would land in my hands, but it wasn’t a dominant part of my daily routine. Last year, while facing health challenges, I decided to integrate reading into my life as a way to distract myself from physical discomfort.
The Allure of Bookstagram
In an effort to hold myself accountable, I ventured into the world of Bookstagram. I quickly became enchanted by its visual appeal and the engaging content of various accounts. Like many others, I found myself accumulating books, not just to enjoy reading but to curate a picturesque library and partake in bookish conversations.
The Weight of Expectations
However, I soon felt overwhelmed by the pressure to keep pace with others who devoured 15 to 20 books monthly—a rate that was simply unattainable for me. Despite this, I still managed to read 50 books in six months, only to find myself burnt out and entering a reading slump for the next four months. It was during this period that I came to a harsh realization: despite not being an avid reader, I was content with the few books I read occasionally.
The Breaking Point
Frustration mounted, leading me to consider abandoning reading altogether. I began to feel irritated with myself for yielding to the pressures of Bookstagram. During one of my journaling sessions, where I vented my feelings about this reading experience, a moment of clarity struck me. I understood that despite the widespread advice about reading and its life-changing potential, it hadn’t altered mine.
Reassessing My Purpose
One major issue was my inability to articulate my thoughts after reading because I was too focused on quantity rather than truly appreciating each book's essence. Even after reading numerous titles, I struggled to retain much of what I had encountered. It felt as though I had squandered countless hours, devoid of enjoyment or meaningful insights.
In the midst of my reflections about why I had started this habit, I posed a simple yet profound question to myself that shifted my mindset.
Rediscovering My Motivation
I initially embraced reading as a source of joy and distraction, a means to shift my focus from my struggles towards healing and personal growth. Yet, the allure of Bookstagram and the urge to compete with others had diverted me from this path. I realized that I had lost sight of my original intentions. I was reading to accumulate numbers, to finish books, and to post about them on Instagram, rather than to savor the journey or gain meaningful insights.
Often, we forget the reasons behind our pursuits, becoming ensnared in trends and the desire for social validation. We can become so absorbed in competing with others that we neglect our own well-being.
This moment of realization transformed my entire approach to reading. For the past two months, I have cultivated a consistent reading habit that aligns with my true intentions and purpose.
This was my journey with reading! Have you ever felt similarly in your own life?
In this video, "How Reading Books Changed My Life Forever," the speaker shares personal reflections on how reading has influenced their life journey, inviting viewers to explore the transformative power of literature.
In "How Reading Books Has Changed My Life," the creator discusses the profound effects of reading on personal growth and offers insights that may resonate with anyone on a similar journey.