I’ve always loved books—reading them, looking at them, listening to them. I even worked with them, first at my college library and later at Borders Bookstore (yes, I know I’m aging myself).

But somewhere along the way, I fell out of love with reading. The immediacy of TV shows, social media, work, and the general busyness of life definitely played a part.

Then came November 2024—and if you’re in the U.S., you know what happened. I needed a break from real life. So I picked up a book I’d been carrying around for over a year and finally gave it the attention it deserved. That moment changed everything. Since then, I haven’t looked back.

I’ve collected way too many digital books (and a few physical ones too) and, more importantly, I’ve made a conscious effort to read—for joy, not productivity.

For a long time, I thought reading had to be educational or intellectual to be worth it. I felt like I had to read research, economics, or nonfiction to be seen as smart, valuable, or “serious.” So I forced myself to listen to leadership and self-development books—some of which were great (hello The Power of Habit and Start with Why), but they didn’t fulfill me. It felt like a performance instead of a passion.

And honestly? It sucked the fun out of reading.

I still remember the first book I devoured in one sitting, Jemima J by Jane Green. It was light, fun, and gave me a feeling I’ve been chasing ever since. But somewhere along the line, I convinced myself that kind of reading wasn’t “serious” enough.

Thankfully, I’ve let go of that mindset.

Now? I read whatever the heck I want. If I want to dive into a dark mafia romance, I will. If I want a sappy rom-com, I’m all in. If I want to escape into a fantasy world filled with dragons and shadow daddies? You better believe I’m going. And yes, if I want to read a self-help book, I still will—because now I’m doing it for me.

Rekindling my love for books has been one of the most joyful things I’ve done for myself. I hope to share that journey with all of you. So let’s be friends—and read whatever we damn well please.