As I continue forward in my life, I have noticed a decrease in the popularity of reading. For a past time like reading to suddenly be taking a back seat in this generation is not exactly normal, considering that reading has been around for centuries. Why should we stop being so deeply invested in reading novels now? Reading has only developed greater minds and grown knowledge, which may be why we need it more now than ever.

It is not hard to find a novel that intrigues you. Start surfing different genres and pick one that interests you. The worst that could happen is you not liking the book and putting it down. It is better to make the effort to educate yourself with new vocabulary and different mindsets than it is to sit back and watch T.V. for multiple hours in a row. Challenge yourself just by putting down the remote, and grabbing a book.

However, there are some pieces of literature you should survey with caution. Like many magazines, for example. There are tons of magazines that are simply articles focused on current times and are compiled together; they normally consist of rumors and scandalous gossip. Any type of literature that brings forth negative ideas or thoughts should always be read carefully. It does not just stop at magazines though, but even articles, posts, blogs, newspaper pieces or books. Any of those could turn toxic really quickly, if not moderated.

Being able to venture out and read pieces of literature is a positive step. Especially if you go from a lesser challenging read to a more challenging read, it is helping to build your vocabulary and develop your understanding of new scenarios and ideas. Having the time to sit down and read a novel also is an outlet from the stresses of society or the stresses we put on ourselves. We are able to escape into a different world, different time period, different point of view or just a different mindset. Whatever your novel transforms you into, it is still taking the proper steps to help you cope with the pressures in life.

Another positive skill gained by reading is being able to complete your thoughts and sentences better. For example, I write decently; however, when I talk to people I tend to have a difficult time getting a full sentence across completely. It is just ingrained in my personality and I am just so used to getting my idea shot down half way through explaining it, so I rarely form coherent sentences. Since I have started reading intensely again, I am able to structure my sentences fully and sound more assertive and confident than I did before. Even if reading doesn't seem like your cup of tea, give it a shot. You might like it more than you could have ever imagined.