The Power of Reading: Why it's Important for Personal and Professional Growth
- Amanda Keller
- Nov 5
- 2 min read

Reading is one of the most important and enriching activities that we can engage in. It has been proven to have numerous benefits for the brain and overall well-being, and is a fundamental tool for personal growth, creative writing, and development.
One of the most significant benefits of reading is the positive impact it has on the brain. Research has shown that reading can improve cognitive function, increase vocabulary, and even enhance empathy and social skills. It can also be a great stress reliever, as it provides a way to escape into another world and forget about the stresses of daily life—something every writer and writing coach understands well.
Reading can also help us to become better writers, as it exposes us to a variety of styles and genres, and teaches us new ways to express ourselves. By immersing ourselves in the written word, we can learn to appreciate different writing styles and techniques, which can help us to develop our own unique voice and improve our writing skills.
Perhaps most importantly, reading can broaden our horizons and expand our knowledge of the world around us. It exposes us to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives, which can help us to become more well-rounded individuals and more thoughtful authors. Whether we're reading a work of fiction, a history book, or a scientific journal, we're constantly learning and growing through the act of reading—an essential part of writer development.
In today's fast-paced world, it can be all too easy to overlook the importance of reading. But by making time for this fundamental activity, we can reap countless benefits for our minds, our bodies, and our spirits. So whether you're an avid reader or just starting to explore the world of literature, take some time to appreciate the power and importance of reading, and all the ways in which it can enrich your life—and your writing journey.
At Outliers Writing University, we believe that great writers are great readers. Keep reading, keep writing, and keep growing.
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