Read Your Way to Financial Health

Are you a reader?

The number of Americans who read for pleasure has been falling over the past 2 decades. 26% of those surveyed read for pleasure on an average day in 2003, but by 2023, that number fell to only 16%. More women read than men, and those with postgraduate degrees are likely to be readers, along with those over the age of 66.

Researchers point out numerous benefits to reading. Maybe you’ll pick up a book after hearing this. Comprehension skills, vocabulary, imagination, emotional intelligence, empathy, and logical reasoning are all improved. It’s linked with academic achievement, financially rewarding employment, career growth, and involvement in civic life. Reading may promote health, reduce stress, and depressive symptoms. It can support better sleep, slow cognitive decline in older adults, and even increase longevity. It can bridge cultural gaps, increase understanding, and build a sense of belonging and identity. Plus, reading is just plain enjoyable!

Now, how are you using your leisure time? Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” The authors of good books are great mentors. The wisest wrote the Bible, so start there. Then, add books by heroes of the faith. Read your way to financial health with books and studies on Biblical stewardship. What you read influences who you become!

And if you’re struggling with credit card debt, Christian Credit Counselors are the best. They can create a debt management plan specifically for you. For more information, visit online at crown.org/ccc.