In a world full of distractions—be it work, social media, or the never-ending list of errands—it’s easy to let the habit of reading fall by the wayside as we get older. But every year, on Drop Everything and Read Day, we’re reminded of the importance of making time for reading, no matter our age. While this day originally encourages children and families to pick up books, it’s equally important for adults to pause and reflect on how reading continues to play a vital role in our lives, well beyond childhood.
What is Drop Everything and Read Day?
Drop Everything and Read Day (often abbreviated to DEAR Day) is a celebration of reading where people of all ages are encouraged to drop whatever they’re doing and immerse themselves in a good book. The day typically falls on April 12th, but the message behind it can be celebrated any time we choose to make reading a priority. The initiative started as part of National Library Week in the U.S. and has since become a fun way to highlight the joy and importance of reading in our daily lives.
Why We Should Keep Reading into Adulthood
Reading is often associated with childhood—bedtime stories, school assignments, and library visits. But just because we’re no longer in school doesn’t mean we should stop reading. In fact, continuing to read as adults is essential for a number of reasons:
1. Mental Stimulation and Cognitive Benefits
Studies have shown that reading stimulates the brain, keeping it sharp and engaged. As we age, staying mentally active can help stave off cognitive decline and reduce the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. By reading regularly, we’re challenging our brains and keeping them flexible, sharp, and ready to adapt.
2. Stress Reduction
Life can be overwhelming, and reading provides an escape. Immersing yourself in a novel or diving into a nonfiction book about a topic you’re passionate about allows you to temporarily forget your worries. According to studies, reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68%, making it a great tool for mental relaxation and well-being.
3. Improved Focus and Concentration
In today’s digital age, distractions are everywhere. We juggle emails, social media, and notifications, which can make it difficult to focus for long periods of time. Reading a book, on the other hand, requires sustained attention and concentration. The more you read, the better your ability to focus in other areas of your life—whether it’s at work, during meetings, or when you’re trying to absorb new information.
4. Expanding Knowledge and Perspective
Books have the power to expose us to new ideas, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re reading fiction or nonfiction, you’re gaining insights into the world around you. As adults, we may not have the same structured environment as children, but reading allows us to continue learning and broadening our horizons. It fosters empathy, understanding, and new perspectives that we may not encounter in our day-to-day lives.
5. Creating Moments of Joy
One of the greatest pleasures in life is getting lost in a good book. As adults, we often forget the simple joy that comes with reading. Whether it’s diving into a thrilling mystery, enjoying a heartwarming story, or learning something new, books provide moments of pure joy and satisfaction. As we get older, we can sometimes forget the importance of indulging in simple pleasures—reading gives us a way to reconnect with that childlike sense of wonder.
How to Make Time for Reading as an Adult
Finding time to read as an adult can be challenging. Our schedules are often packed, and it can feel like there’s no time for anything other than work and daily tasks. But by setting aside time for reading—whether it’s during lunch breaks, before bed, or even during those few minutes of downtime—you can start to build a regular reading habit into your routine.
Consider also joining a book club, where you can discuss your latest read with others. This can be a fun and social way to stay motivated and accountable when it comes to reading. Our friends at Brick Media have a Book Club their staff can take part in. They are currently reading Atomic Habits by James Clear, a book on our favorites list!
Favorite Books
Everyone has their own list of favorite books—stories that shaped their childhood or novels that continue to resonate in adulthood. We wanted to share with you some of our favorite reads:
Ryan Nece’s Favorite Book List
- Give and Take by Adam Grant
- The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday
- Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi
- Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
- Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson
- The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino
- Wild at Heart by John Eldredge
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
Ryan Nece Foundation’s Favorite Book List
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey
- Mindset Training: Conquer Your Mind and the Rest Will Follow by Dr. Nekeshia Hammond
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown
- How To Human by Carlos Whittaker
- Uncharitable by Dan Pallotta
Read, No Matter Your Age
So, whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or discovering a new author, Drop Everything and Read Day is a perfect reminder that reading is a habit that transcends age. It’s not just about the knowledge you gain, the relaxation you experience, or the escapism a book provides—it’s about nurturing the habit of making time for yourself, your mind, and your well-being. So, this April 12th (or any day), drop everything, pick up a book, and let the pages transport you into a world of adventure, knowledge, and possibility.
Happy reading! 
