Sunita, a teacher from Lucknow, was once an insatiable reader. Premchand’s timeless tales, Sudha Murty’s heartfelt narratives, and even thrillers by John Grisham—she devoured them all. But today, at just 45, Sunita struggles to get through even a few pages in a week. Her once beloved habit has been replaced by endless scrolling on her smartphone, often leaving her drained rather than fulfilled.
Sunita’s story resonates with many of us. Smartphones, Wi-Fi, and affordable data have turned India into a digital powerhouse. Yet, in this era of 5G and non-stop notifications, we have lost something invaluable – the simple, unhurried joy of reading.
The Shrinking Attention Span: A Reality Check
Did you know our attention span has dipped below that of a goldfish? From 12 seconds in 2000, it’s now a mere 8.25 seconds. For Indians, the numbers are sobering. A 2023 Microsoft report revealed that 70% of Indians feel constantly distracted, while a Nielsen survey noted that most Indians now read for less than 10 minutes daily, down from 40 minutes just a decade ago.
The endless scroll of Instagram reels, WhatsApp forwards, and YouTube shorts has us hooked. While we consume a lot, the depth and focus needed for meaningful engagement are slipping away.
Why Reading is the Tonic We Need
Reading isn’t just a pastime; it’s a treasure trove of benefits. Here is why we need to reclaim it:
1. Sharpen Your Focus
Reading demands attention. A novel or a long article pulls you in, helping build the mental stamina to focus—an essential skill for work, relationships, and life.
2. Keep Your Mind Fit
Scrolling is passive, but reading activates your brain. Studies show that regular reading can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. It’s like yoga for the mind!
3. Dive Deep into Knowledge
A book offers more than fleeting information; it gives context, depth, and perspective. Be it history, science, or fiction, reading widens horizons like no Instagram post ever could.
4. Master Language and Communication
In a world of “LOL” and “BRB,” books remind us of the beauty of language. Reading enriches vocabulary, hones expression, and makes your words shine.
5. Find Calm Amid Chaos
Scrolling often stresses us out, showing us the “perfect” lives of others. Reading, in contrast, soothes the soul. A good book is like chai on a rainy day—comforting and uplifting.
6. Unleash Creativity
Ever read a Ruskin Bond story and imagined the hills of Mussoorie? Reading fires up creativity, inspiring us to dream, solve problems, and think differently.
The Stories of Sunita and Prakash
Sunita isn’t alone. Prakash, a graphic designer from Pune, had a similar story. Swamped by deadlines and screen time, his creativity took a hit. Inspired by his grandfather’s habit, Prakash began reading 20 minutes each morning, be it R.K. Narayan’s classics or a self help book. The results? Sharper designs, fresher ideas, and a happier mind. You too can improve your attention span, creativity, and feel happier. Just start with daily reading, go back to books, read something daily. For, it’s never too late to fall in love with reading again. Here’s how:
🕒 Carve Out Reading Time
Start with 10 minutes a day. Whether it’s before bed or during chai breaks, make reading a non-negotiable ritual.
📚 Read What You Love
From crime thrillers to spiritual guides, pick topics that excite you. No rules, just read what makes you happy.
📵 Cut Back on Scrolling
Set screen time limits for social media. Replace a few minutes of Instagram with a gripping story. You will thank yourself.
👥 Join a Reading Circle
Find a local or online book club. Discussing books with others not only motivates you but deepens your understanding too.
Make 2025 the Year of Reading
As we step into 2025, let us reclaim our love for the written word. Reading isn’t just a habit; it’s a legacy we must cherish and pass on. Imagine a nation where our children grow up with the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi’s “My Experiments with Truth” and the charm of Tagore’s poetry instead of just viral memes.
Pick a book today and take the first step toward a richer life. Scroll less, and live richer lives. Start today. Pick up a book, turn its pages, and rediscover the magic that lies within.
