With the start of the new year, everyone is searching for that one change to improve their lifestyles. This year, I’ve decided to pick up a new hobby. Believe it or not, I’ve started to love reading. Yes, I know what you’re thinking, who even does that anymore right? But that’s just my point. Reading a good book is way too underrated and I wish more people would entertain themselves with new stories and adventures written on paper.

When was the last time you sat down and thoroughly enjoyed reading a book? I asked my classmate Grace Morgan this question and her response was, “The last time I read a book for my own enjoyment was this past summer, and I didn’t even finish the book. I wish I had more time to read.” I also asked my friend Grace Werner, and she answered with, “I honestly couldn’t tell you the last book I read.” I know that this is the case for many teenagers and this used to be me as well. I’ve started minimizing my time on social media, and instead supplementing time with a book. I’ve noticed a change in my overall mood and I am loving it! 

There are so many benefits of reading that you may not even know about. Studies have shown that reading increases mental stimulation, reduces stress, expands vocabulary, and can even improve your memory. For me, reading has become a treat that allows me to escape from the stress of high school. I’ve decided to challenge myself this year to read 25 books and I am so excited to tackle this, I hope you will join me and set your own reading goal!