DISADVANTAGES OF NOT READING BOOKS BEYOND ACADEMIC BOOKS

This is an era where there is a consistent decline in reading habits. People are willing to read only those books that are directly related to their academic pursuits. It has been projected that just around 20% of the population is still interested in reading beyond what is necessary for their academic courses.

Though many blame things like social media and smartphones for this disturbing trend, yet; the fact is that it can’t be attributed to any single reason. Several factors are responsible for the reluctance to read. Whatever might be the reasons, the truth is that the unwillingness to read has several disadvantages.

Let us now have a look at some of the major drawbacks to the person who is not reading beyond academic books.

• When anyone confines themselves only to the books needed for their academics, they are likely to end up as persons with a narrow outlook towards life.
• It has to be admitted that most academic books do not contain updated information. As a result, when an individual’s reading is restricted only to these books, the knowledge that they possess could be outdated.
• The lack of knowledge resulting from staying away from books may affect self-esteem. It could also lead a person to avoid discussion of substance and to miss out on positions in intellectual organizations and committees.
• The career growth of people can get a little difficult when they dislike widening their knowledge through extensive reading.
• In social situations, persons could land in a tight spot when they can’t contribute to the conversation that is going on. It is difficult for a person with limited knowledge to participate in those conversations.
• Nowadays, people are replacing the reading habit with increased screen time. Excess time is spent in front of a smartphone, laptop, and television. This causes issues such as insomnia and recurrent headaches. So, we can say that, in a way, not reading enough books is also impacting the physical health of people.
• Because of this limited reading, the creativity of the people is getting. And, it is this creativity that is pivotal for the growth and prosperity of a country, in the long run.
• If an individual has no interest in reading, their communication skills and writing abilities can’t develop, as well. Reading on varied subjects is imperative for aptly and effectively communicating key points to others.
• Reading books other than academic helps you in understanding problems and increases your reasoning skills. Not having the habit of reading general books lowers your reasoning skills.

Books are in general are a wide source of knowledge. It’s never too late to take advantage of reading books. On one side, from stress relief to improved memory, reading is hugely beneficial in all aspects of our lives. In another manner, it helps to assimilate knowledge at the pace of the reader and in the convenient time of the reader. Unlike TV which may disturb others when you watch late at night. Reading can be done late at night without disturbing others.

The growth of social media presents a unique reading challenge. People get used to more video watching and attention spans are reducing. This challenge is more from sharing knowledge with the audiences. Those who read regularly will have more advantages in this current age than ever before.