"A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one." –George R.R. Martin

Whenever someone says they hate reading or that they never read a book in high school, I cringe a little bit. I've heard a lot of people say they think reading means work or that it takes too much effort and time to sit down and read. In reality, there are so many benefits that come with being a reader. It's a pastime that is much healthier (and productive) than sitting on the couch watching TV or passing time on social media. If you have nothing to do or need to relax, grabbing a book is a great way to solve that problem. For everyone that says reading isn't worth it, here are a few reasons to pick up a book.

1. It's relaxing.

Reading can take away so much stress. Sometimes you just need to focus on one simple thing and let everything else kind of fall away. When you read, you are sucked into a time and place that has nothing to do with your own reality. Afterward, your head will feel clearer and calmer.

2. It's an escape.

If there's anything bothering you that you can't seem to take your mind off of, reading can serve as a distraction. Even if nothing is going wrong in your life, it's nice to disappear into a world other than your own every once in a while. It's a few minutes when you have no homework, deadlines or immediate responsibilities.

3. It improves your vocabulary.

Even if you don't realize it, as you're reading, you pick up new words and extend your vocabulary. While it may not come out in your everyday speech, it will help you in any English classes you're taking. You'll be able to comprehend concepts and ideas with more ease.

4. It makes you a better writer.

Everyone writes. Even if you don't think you do, think of all the emails, papers, texts and notes you've had to write. Reading gives you a better idea of how language should sound and will in turn make you a better writer.

5. You can better appreciate the perspectives of others.

Reading can give you insight into how other people feel and act. Books can help you get an idea of how life is for other people, especially those from opposite socioeconomic backgrounds or with conditions you couldn't even imagine. It helps you build your emotional intelligence and empathy.

6. It can offer you guidance for situations/problems in your own life.

Seeing how other people handle themselves when things go bad (even if it may be fictional) can give you indirect advice on how to handle things in your own life.

7. It's enjoyable.

Nothing is better than flipping the pages of a book and the satisfaction when you finish it.