HOBBIES: READING BOOKS

 

WHY DO I READ?

 Whenever I'm bored, one of my favorite pastimes is reading books. Not only it satisfies me or entertains me, but I also tend to grasp new vocabulary and learn to adapt sentence constructions which are helpful in my grammar skills. I remember what Stephen King said in his interview, "You cannot write what you don't read". This is why I'm developing my writing skills by reading various materials. 

    Reading makes me learn new concepts and ideas. It benefits me to expand and sharpen my knowledge, necessary for me to apply this in problem-solving, formulating opinions, and constructing criticisms. 

    As a leader, I, myself, also read for the sake of improving my people skills because I believe that a true leader values books. In order for me to govern the people around me, I need first to develop myself. By reading a book, one develops a hobby or discipline. Finishing a book could be one of the simplest achievement, that anyone can do. 

WHAT TYPES OF BOOK DO I READ?

    When I was in 7th Grade, I started reading romance books like Fifty Shades Trilogy. I kept it discreet from my parents since they might be bewildered or dismayed if they find out about it. What is more, Wattpad is a trend during that time and I've completed reading e-books mainly romance and comedy genres since they're free.

    Then, in 10th grade, I bought hard copies and started a collection. Although most of my books are merely reprinted copies, I feel guilty of course that I don't have the money to afford to buy the original ones. I know it is disrespectful to its authors, but I can't help but want to read their works. Rest assured that when I have the means to buy original books, I will. 

    Apparently, I am interested in self-help and personal development books. The first self-help book that I bought was The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens written by Sean Covey. Related to Atomic Habits written by James Clear, I recommend these books for teenagers younger than me, so they can make a routine that will keep them productive and proactive. As far as I know, Atomic Habits is a peer-reviewed book. It focuses more on psychological response while the 7 Habits Book, in my opinion, is only a watered-down version. These books taught me the importance of having discipline in oneself. It teaches anyone how to break their self-sabotaging habits that affect their growth, relationships, and lifestyle. As you can observe, teens are in the stage of curiosity. Throughout half of my teenage years, I was surrounded by teens who are exploring different ventures. Well there's nothing wrong with enjoying your youthful days. However, the worst-case scenario is that most of them dive into peer pressure, letting themselves feel included in a group even if it means conforming to vices or terrible behaviors and attitudes. 

    The next one is Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki. This book is also popular and one of my favorite books. This might be boring for some people, but it is quite helpful to let yourself be financially literate. I can recall that this book taught me that there are a lot of scholars or professionals out there, who have a high-paying jobs or high salaries, but still struggle financially. In my perception, school does not help me at all on how will I manage my finances even though the curriculum does have macroeconomics being lectured in junior high. I don't want to sound as a know it all, but channeling my Capricorn trait (ems), I want to be knowledgeable on the game of money. My father, who was a cum-laude and a scholar, just recently pursues his entrepreneurial abilities. My parents influenced my mindset that I don't need to be good in academics only, but also to be practical and wise for me to have a business someday. "You're not going to be rich by your income from your career alone, you need to build a business as your asset," the greatest lesson that my father always instills in my mind. 

I didn't get the opportunity to study finance which the ABM strand specializes in. I chose HUMSS instead, supposed that it is alligned with my pre-law but I still kind of wish that I get to learn more about the subjects in ABM. Nonetheless, I don't want to lose interest in finance. Therefore, I buy and read books similar to this. This book is recommendable because its content is mainly about assets and liabilities, taxes, corporations, investments, and anything related to finance. This one's for keeps, but I am not finished with it yet. 

    Followed by The Art of War, How to Use Your Enemies, and 48 Laws of Power, these are the books I bought that I assume will enhance my awareness of every interaction that I will be having with other people. In our world, you can't be defenseless. You have to guard yourself against those people who may take advantage of you by recognizing their behaviors and attitudes. Even the people who may seem kind and heaven-sent, hides their ulterior motives and their selfish desires. Even the people you trust, are capable of betraying you. After all, no one separates a human from its deceiving nature. No matter how much we deny it, we can't escape greed. We can only conceal and tone it down. Everyone can be your enemy. You may have friends that can be your allies that's why it is important to select your circle and only let a few people know you behind your walls. You don't want yourself to be treated like a doormat. Neither to feel inferior and be in the lowest position in the social hierarchy, enabling people to walk over you because you're ignorant and powerless. 

    Lastly, my favorite novel is Little Women. I don't have a hard copy yet, I only read its e-book. This is the fictional book that I truly love. As a feminist, I truly appreciate Little Women's representation of women archetypes. Most people mistakingly assume that when you're a feminist you should hate men and never love them. On contrary, Little Women portrays a feminist like Jo March as persistent in proving herself in a male-dominated world while also letting herself fall and be loved by a man that will support her. Being a feminist does not entirely mean that you have to surrender your needs and wants by neglecting your feminine side. Most of the "girl bosses" out there also wish to feel that they can be safe around a man who will not judge her for being clingy or vulnerable.