Read To Reflect, Read To Act READ TO WIN!

"The journey of a lifetime starts with the turning of a page." - Rachel Anders

Recently participating in the World Reading Day Celebration, the event which was beautifully crafted to encourage people to take to reading, inviting people to read and capture thoughts, quotes, and ideas so as to in a year’s time help publish 365 e-books. A beautiful initiative to incentivise reading and make it wholesome understanding. We at Akal Academy Baru Sahib and chain of 129 Akal Academies spread across the North India are excited to take part in this novel program.

Surely a beautiful way to bring people back to reading, a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in holistic learning too. It is not only a means of acquiring knowledge but also a means for developing critical thinking, empathy, and creativity. In today's fast-paced world, where technology dominates our lives, the importance of reading cannot be overstated. Let’s explore the multifaceted benefits of reading in shaping well-rounded individuals and its integral role in knowledge and building characters.

Reading serves as the cornerstone of education, providing the foundation for learning across all subjects. From mathematics to science, history to literature, the ability to read and comprehend written material is essential for academic success.

"Once you learn to read, you will be forever free."

As a community dedicated to education, with our institutions like Akal Academy Baru Sahib , Eternal University, Baru Sahib Sirmour (Himachal Pradesh) and Akal University Talwandi Sabo , reading and learning are integral parts of our lives.

We understand the transformative power of reading, and that's why libraries are also an essential part of our educational infrastructure. The library is more than just a place for academic study; it is also a space for personal growth and self-discovery. Here, students can explore new ideas, perspectives, and interests, broadening their horizons and expanding their worldview. Whether it's delving into the pages of a novel, immersing themselves in a work of poetry, or grappling with complex philosophical concepts, our libraries offer endless opportunities for intellectual and emotional enrichment.

The exposure to a wide range of texts, students expand their linguistic repertoire, improve their writing abilities, and refine their verbal communication skills.

One of the most profound benefits of reading being is its role in promoting creativity and imagination. When students engage with imaginative literature, they are transported to new worlds, exposed to fantastical ideas, and encouraged to think beyond the confines of reality.

?The advantages of incorporating reading into one's leadership practices are manifold. Research indicates that engaging with written material can enhance cognitive abilities, fostering intelligence, innovation, and insightful thinking. Studies demonstrate that reading contributes to the expansion of vocabulary, broadening of world knowledge, and refinement of abstract reasoning skills. Whether delving into Wikipedia entries, works by Aristotle, reading serves as a potent means of swiftly acquiring and integrating new information. Many professionals advocate for exploring diverse fields through reading as it stimulates creativity. Leaders who draw insights from disciplines like sociology, physical sciences, economics, or psychology and apply them to their organizations are more likely to foster innovation and achieve success.

Furthermore, reading aids in developing effective leadership skills. It boosts verbal intelligence, enhancing a leader's ability to communicate articulately and persuasively. Immersing oneself in novels can cultivate empathy and improve understanding of social dynamics, facilitating better collaboration and interpersonal relations—an attribute that correlates with increased organizational effectiveness, as noted by author Anne Kreamer. Additionally, heightened emotional intelligence resulting from reading is known to enhance leadership and management capabilities, a crucial aspect of success in the business world.

Lastly, maintaining an active reading habit contributes to personal effectiveness by promoting relaxation and improving overall health. For busy executives, reading serves as an optimal stress-relief method, with just six minutes of reading shown to reduce stress levels by as much as 68%. Moreover, some research suggests that regular reading may help stave off Alzheimer's disease, thereby promoting cognitive longevity. Therefore, embracing reading habits offers a sea of benefits for professionals across various industries, ultimately fostering better leadership skills and personal well-being.

The event organised by Akal University Talwandi Sabo & Novel Bunch to present the work of Dr. (Col) Rajinder Singh , a driving force behind Akal Drug De-Addiction Centre . With the launch of his quote collective “Gems of Wisdom” he advocates, let's get addicted to Books, Not Drugs.

As educators and parents, it is essential to recognize the profound impact of reading on holistic education and to cultivate a culture of reading that nurtures the intellectual, emotional, and creative development of students. By embracing the transformative power of reading, we can empower the next generation to become thoughtful, empathetic, and intellectually curious individuals who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.