Writer’s Name: Allison Martin
Title: Broaden Your Horizons by Picking up a Book!
Have you ever heard the phrase “reading is fundamental? It’s commonly used in the classroom throughout grade school but many fail to take it seriously. For children, reading is the primary vehicle used to reinforce information learned in educational settings. Some individuals seem to think that once they have finished grade school (and even college), reading is no longer an activity they must engage in unless it is a pre-requisite for a job or involves some sort of gossip/drama. This is very sad but true. Reading is actually essential at all stages of any individual’s life for various reasons.
First and foremost, there is so much going on around us each and every day that we need to stay abreast of current events and how they may impact us. Turning on the news may seem to be the perfect medium of delivery but it’s never a bad idea to dig deeper. For example, if there is a widespread virus or epidemic that can potentially effect the community in which you reside, it doesn’t hurt to research the possible warning signs (or symptoms) to look for, preventative measures that can be taken, and potential long-term effects. Of course, the newscaster or subject-matter expert may provide an in-depth analysis but we should be educated enough to form our own opinion. Therefore, obtaining various perspectives and facts from print sources is necessary.
If you’re an individual who has no interest in current events, you may be thinking voluntary reading isn’t for you. This is definitely not the case! Unless you have no aspirations to enhance your knowledge in preparation for a career or in general, some reading will also be needed on your end. The most successful employees, executives, and entrepreneurs have taken the steps needed to expand their knowledge-base, enhance their level of productivity, and take actions needed to reach the next level. Part of this process was done through examining and analyzing career-oriented literature. Perhaps they read a few (or many) books on leadership or the key elements needed to thrive in their respective industries? Either way, reading of some sort was needed to accomplish this objective.
Have you ever been engaged in a conversation with someone and an unknown topic arose? This is certainly not out of the norm in many instances. When this happens to me, I always head over to the Internet to learn more so I won’t be in the dark just in case the topic surfaces again. In other instances, I may just want to broaden my knowledge base regarding something that sparked my interest.
Generally speaking, too many complain about their inability to better themselves and progress in life due to a lack of knowledge. However, few actually take initiative to seek out educational resources. Reading is the perfect way to broaden your horizons and become more knowledgeable in any area your heart desires. There are tons of magazines, newspapers, books, electronic sources (via the Internet), and libraries filled with material waiting to be studied. Don’t be afraid to expand your horizons out of a dislike for reading. Instead, find a topic that sparks your interest and start there. Cheers to a happy reading journey…..