By Aditi Malaviya
I have been asked on countless occasions as to why I do not read non-fiction books. The answer is simple- I enjoy reading fiction. I began reading books during my teenage years and have not stopped since. Fiction novels have intrigued me and have always satiated my curiosity. They address personal stories and let you live vicariously through the character’s life. Now as an adult, I can clearly observe how the habit of reading fiction impacted me. These changes are more profound than the common ones like improved writing and reading speed. While many believe non-fiction offers more practical benefits, my experience with fiction speaks a different narrative. This is how it moulded my life and contributed to my personality over the years. Here is how reading changed me and how it can impact a reader:1. Enhanced vocabulary: This is a pretty known fact that regular reading expands your vocabulary. Over the years, I noticed not just an expansion of vocabulary, but precision in how I comprehended and expressed my thoughts. According to a study conducted by test your vocabulary.com, it was observed that people who read fiction develop a deeper vocabulary compared to those who primarily read non-fiction.2. Increased sense of empathy and emotional understanding: I often find myself comprehending someone’s situation with different viewpoints and emotions. Reading complex characters taught me that people are never simply good or evil — they are layered. I remember reading ‘The Harry Potter’ book series and I instantly disliked Professor Snape. But when his true intentions were revealed later in the series, I saw him differently — not as cruel, but as deeply human. I realised that he was someone driven by remorse. Snape was nothing but a brave and selfsacrificing Slytherin. I recognized his intricate nature, his struggles and feelings. This is something that only reading allows you to experience on a deeper level.Reading fiction helps you to understand several emotions and people without you actually having to go through the encounters firsthand. According to the author Ann Patchett, “Reading fiction helps us feel empathy for people we’ve never met, living lives we couldn’t possibly experience for ourselves because books put us inside the character’s skin.”3. Better sleep and reduced stress: I remember struggling with the habit of endless scrolling before going to sleep every night. I used to fall asleep overstimulated and way past a healthy bedtime. In turn, I would wake up feeling lethargic and burnt out. Then I decided to change it. I deleted the social media apps from my phone and started reading for a few minutes before going to bed. And it did the trick. I started going to sleep at a reasonable time and waking up early. My anxiety and stress levels reduced. I started waking up feeling peaceful and content. This is one of the healthiest habits I have developed over the years. It brings you into the present moment and allows you to unburden from daily anxieties, rush and stress. In a study conducted by Sussex University, it was seen that reading is better for reducing stress levels than going for a walk, listening to music or playing video games. Thus, reading is an excellent ritual to end the day on a relaxing note and begin the next day with clarity.4. The healthiest form of entertainment for your mind: For the entirety of my semester breaks, I read contemporary mystery and thriller novels. Some of the authors include Lisa Jewell, Ruth Ware, Claire Douglas and Holly Jackson. I was trying to fit the pieces as to what is going to happen next, who is the killer, what is the actual twist. I was mentally aware and not just physically present in the act. Reading these books was extremely entertaining and felt productive.When reading fiction, your mind is actively involved in the story instead of passively consuming the content like watching TV. Reading requires you to engage with the content while forming your own opinions. It is probably the best way to have fun while simultaneously strengthening your intellect.5. Problem solving ability: As someone who absolutely loves reading mystery and thriller novels, these books force me to think one step ahead. Mystery novels train the mind to look for patterns, loopholes and not just conclusions. By noting characters, clues and plots at the same time, mystery novels develop analytical skills. I remember reading ‘The Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ book series and trying to put the pieces together. I was trying hard to figure out what exactly happened before the author revealed it.6. Sharp focus and better attention span: The current age is shaped by social media algorithms where users are falling prey to short-form content and constant scrolling. They have shorter attention spans and find it increasingly challenging to focus on a single task. In such an age, reading is one of the most valuable habits one can cultivate. Regular reading trains the brain to focus on detailed information. Absorbing such information requires focused and continuous involvement. Gradually, mental stamina, memory and concentration improve.Over the years, I also developed a taste for specific genres, storylines and characters. I grew into an emotionally mature young woman. I learned the values of human emotions and the potential these stories carry in them to move us deeply. Not to mention, fiction taught me patience and the ability to find peace in the mundane. It helped me in articulating my thoughts efficiently. Gradually, I found courage in having opinions different from the crowd. I grew into a person who looks at multiple aspects of a situation before reaching a conclusion. Reading became my solace in difficult times – a companion. This was my experience of reading fiction and its impact on me.As they say, “books are a man’s best friend.” And sure, they are. Books carry the potential to change your opinions, bring you peace, develop intellect and enhance your creativity.If you’ve been meaning to start reading, consider this your sign to finally pick up your first novel. Reading refines your personality in unimaginable ways. Regular reading, even for a few minutes, can reshape your thoughts. Reading is perfect for someone who is looking for a new hobby or a positive change in themselves over time. Fiction does not transform you overnight. It grows in silence until one day you realise that you have changed in beautiful ways.
