Library

Some thoughts on READING that may resonate … by Steve Magness 

We are not just reading less; we can't read deeply anymore.

Not just books - but any form of sustained, deep reading.

We skim, swipe, scroll. Attention spans shrink. Our brains re-wire.

And with it, we lose something essential: the ability to think deeply.

A recent survey found that nearly 50% of adults didn't read a single book in the last year.

Among younger adults reading time has dropped by over 60% since 2004.

Not because we don't care – but because we are constantly pulled into short form, fast hitting content.

The algorithm is winning.

But here is the problem: reading isn't just about consuming information - it's about how we process and reflect.

When we read long form content, our brains engage in focused, deliberate thought.

When we scroll, we fragment our attention and over time, that becomes our default.

Neuroscience backs this up.

Studies show that deep reading activates brain regions tied to empathy, memory, reasoning, and focus.

Skimming and screen scrolling don't engage those same networks.

In other words: we don't just read differently online - we think differently too.

The more we train our brains to expect quick hits of dopamine - likes, headlines, notifications - the harder it becomes to stick with slow meaningful content.

We mistake stimulation for depth.

And we start to lose the mental muscles required for sustained thought and perspective.

This isn't just about books.

It's about regaining control of your attention in a world designed to hijack it.

Reading is one of the few practices that strengthens focus, builds empathy, and slows down a world obsessed with speed.

It's not old fashioned. It's revolutionary.

What to do about it:

Start small. One page.  One paragraph. Even one sentence read with full attention. Or

• → 10 minutes reading with your phone in another room.
• → A physical book.
• → No goal but to be with the words.

Turn off the noise. Let the silence stretch. 

Your brain will resist at first - it's been conditioned for speed.

But keep showing up.

Because the ability to slow down and focus isn't just a reading skill - it's a life skill.

In a world built on speed, depth becomes a superpower.

Reading trains that part of us that slows down, considers, and connects the dots.

And the less we do it, the more we lose that part of ourselves to a place that pushes shallowness.

Pick up the book your future self will thank you.

Looking for something to rekindle your reading? Pop into our well-resourced Winifred Berry Library on the Senior Campus and see what sparks your interest.

Steve Magness is a world-renowned expert on performance. He is author of the international best seller Do Hard Things. As well as the co-author of Peak Performance and The Passion Paradox and Performance Corner. His forthcoming book is called Win the Inside Game.