How Books Changed My Life: 17 Ways Reading Brings Growth and Joy
“Through every story, we discover a new way to grow, to heal, and to see the world with softer eyes.”
Reading is more than just a hobby — it’s a powerful tool for personal growth and self-care. When we make it part of our daily routine, it can help us manage our time better, build stronger connections, and live a more balanced life.
In this article, I share my personal reading journey and the many benefits that reading can bring to all our lives.
1.My Love for Reading
My love for reading developed gradually, inspired by small moments and simple beginnings. A few years ago, I spent more time watching etiquette videos on YouTube.
One of my favourite channels was by Myka Meier, whose content on elegant living always inspired me. In one of her videos, she mentioned her book Modern Etiquette Made Easy, and that became the first book I ever read from start to finish.
It was full of simple, practical tips that I could use every day, and it opened the door to reading for me.
Soon after, I discovered Jennifer L. Scott from The Daily Connoisseur. She had also written books, and naturally, I began reading her work. One book led to another, and before long, reading became a meaningful habit in my life.
2.Collecting Books Mindfully
As my interest grew, I slowly moved towards books on self-care and mindful living. I even created a small mini-library on my bookshelf.
Looking at my growing collection made me feel happy and encouraged. But when space became limited, I switched to Kindle editions and realised something important:
It doesn’t matter whether we read physical books or digital ones — what matters is how much we learn and enjoy the process.
Even today, seeing my Kindle library brings me the same joy.
3.Reading With My Children
My reading journey became even more special when I started reading storybooks to my son. His face lights up with happiness during story time, and sometimes he grabs the book just to explore it himself.
Watching him develop a love for books makes me so happy.
When my daughter was born, life became busier, and I switched to audiobooks during my early-morning yoga sessions. This time, I focused more on parenting books.
They taught me many valuable lessons — like the importance of quality time and the fact that crying is a natural form of communication. These books were incredibly helpful, and I still read and listen to parenting content.
Now that my daughter is 13 months old, we visit the library often for rhyme time, singing sessions, and, of course, lots of board books. I’ve also started reading physical books again, especially before bedtime.
4.Storytime Moments
She enjoys books just as much as her brother. From a very young age, she loved looking at colourful pages and simple pictures. She sits on my lap, happily turning the pages, and I cherish these moments.
5.Books From My Sister
I also feel grateful to my sister, who works in a school. Sometimes the school receives book donations, and staff members are welcome to take copies home. She kindly brought some books for my daughter, and my daughter absolutely loves them.
6.Comfort Through Spiritual Reading
Alongside parenting books, I read many spiritual books that my mother passed down. During my pregnancy, I read the holy book Ramayan for about 90 minutes every day, which brought me peace and comfort.
Now, with my busy routine, I read a few pages whenever I can — and even those few moments feel meaningful.
7.What Reading Means to Me Now
Over time, reading has become more than just a hobby. It has grown into a lifestyle that supports:
self-care
spiritual growth
mindful living
learning through motherhood
connecting with my children
building a family library
Time Mastery
A Keystone Habit
Emotional Resilience
Reading — whether through physical books, Kindle editions, audiobooks, or children’s board books — has added calmness, joy, and learning to our family life.
How Reading Enriches Our Lives
8. Self-Care
Reading gives us a quiet moment to pause and breathe. Whether it's a physical book or an audiobook, spending even a few minutes reading helps us relax and reset.
It becomes a gentle act of caring for our mental and emotional well-being.
9.Spiritual Growth
Spiritual books help us slow down and connect with deeper thoughts. Even a few pages can bring clarity and peace, reminding us of our values and the strength we carry within.
10. Mindful Living
Mindfulness books teach us to enjoy the present moment. They help us simplify our routines, create a peaceful home, and appreciate small joys.
Reading becomes a simple way to stay grounded.
11.Focused Presence
When we read, our minds naturally become more focused and present. Getting absorbed in a story or idea helps reduce stress and brings a sense of calm into our daily lives.
12. Learning Through Motherhood
Parenting books offer guidance and reassurance. They help us understand our children better and respond with patience and confidence. Reading about motherhood makes us feel supported and prepared.
13. Connecting With Our Children
Reading with our children creates beautiful memories. Storytime sparks imagination, builds language skills, and strengthens emotional bonds. These moments become cherished parts of family life.
14. Building a Family Library
A family library — whether filled with physical books, Kindle titles, or audiobooks — reflects our learning journey. Each book adds memories, knowledge, and inspiration.
Reading together encourages everyone in the family to keep learning and growing.
15.Time Mastery
Reading at a set time each day helps us manage our time better. When we plan time for reading, we automatically learn to prioritise and organise our day with more clarity.
16. A Keystone Habit
Reading can become a keystone habit — a central habit that leads to other positive routines, such as gratitude, journaling, exercise, or meditation.
The discipline we build through reading supports a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
17. Emotional Resilience
Reading helps us understand emotions—both our own and others'. Through stories and experiences, we learn empathy, patience, and strength. This helps us respond more calmly in real-life situations and manage stress more easily.
I hope my reading journey and the lessons I’ve shared inspire you to explore books in your own way. Reading doesn’t have to be complicated — just a few minutes a day can bring calmness, learning, and meaningful change.
Whether you choose physical books, Kindle editions, audiobooks, or children’s stories, I hope you discover the joy and benefits that reading can bring into your life, too.
Let’s continue to grow together and make space for simple joys in our everyday lives. Stay tuned for more mindful moments — and your feedback is always welcome.
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