Finding Time To Read

Reading broadens horizons from our immediate family and our neighborhood. It is the beginning of discovery about ourselves and our world. Dr Seuss taught children (and adults) about growing up, becoming who we are. Horton Hears A Who is full of creativity and exploration, Green Eggs And Ham exhibits trepidation and bravery about new things. We learn lessons, develop discipline, foster imagination. Reading is a gift we give ourselves that rewards us for a lifetime. It is also Aging Intelligently.

Ignorant people are less likely to read and explore all sides of an issue. Smart people read, question, and form their own opinions from multiple sources. They understand that all knowledge is interconnected. It’s like the body. Everything is connected to everything else. The first time you hear a theory (lack of sleep alters your thinking process), you might discount it. If you hear the same theory (lack of sleep alters your thinking process) in several books from different authors, you begin to understand how the theory might be correct. In spite of the fact that, originally, you didn’t believe it at all.

Reading sharpens our thinking skills when we read critically. Just because someone has written a book doesn’t make them an authority, and we should not assume that. Reading challenges us to think for ourselves, to develop critical skills that can be used in relationships, business, and finance. Good reading includes arguing with the viewpoint of the author if you think they are wrong. Write in the margin, if you feel the need, and you own the book. After all, it’s your book; you can do whatever you like with it.

Here’s the best part: you do not have to finish a book. There is no law that says, once having started a book, you must finish it. Some books have a great beginning, filler and no content, and maybe an acceptable ending. Read the beginning and ending; skip the middle.

Consider reading Continuing Education. It sparks your brain, arouses your emotions, and gives you interesting table conversation, not just the usual cocktail chat. A synopsis is not the same as a book. Not only do you miss content, but you also lose the interpretation and understanding of the author, which broadens your horizons and gives you a better understanding of people.

What is a book you have been meaning to read? Go buy it or borrow it from the library and find time to read. Every day. Consider the places where you have free time: waiting for an appointment, on “hold” with the utility company, waiting for a bus or on the bus, waiting for a client, at the airport and on the plane, listening to audio books while driving. It’s amazing the snippets of free time you have. Turn off the television, tune into your brain, and turn on your intelligence.

That’s Aging Intelligently.