IN DEFENSE OF BOOKWORMS

Avid readers, who prefer reading rather than indulging in other leisure activities such as watching TV or playing sports, are usually subjected to a multitude of prejudices. Common misperceptions about those who love reading are that they are anti-social; they are also often referred to as the most boring people on the block and libeled as "book worms".

Those who are mostly seen carrying their current read wherever they go, often find themselves sidelined and eventually even begin to accept themselves as social outcasts. The trouble becomes more enhanced when readers accept this irrational treatment that is meted out to them, thereby further alienating themselves.

Those who read habitually should make it a point to spend some time trying to change the common misperceptions about their kind. The reason to stand up against such prejudices is because the onus of marketing the hobby of reading and getting more and more people to embrace this practice, making reading a part of everyday life, lies entirely in their hands.

It is the task of a person who is aware of the multitude of benefits that this hobby can offer to the world to make the world see the light. It may seem like an uphill task but all it takes is perhaps a little conscious effort combined with the wisdom of how to project your personality so as to be able to influence others. Be subtly humorous, and when in conversation with others allow yourself to respond naturally and spontaneously. Just because you are into books, does not mean you are required to share bookish tidbits in every interaction. One must learn to go with the flow and not redirect it towards what they recently read, something that book-lovers often tend to do.

If book-lovers projects themselves well, it will be evident that such individuals are much more intellectual and comprehensive than those whose minds have not had exposure to the written word. Well-read people are very engaging conversationalists, and are likely to add more color to any gathering because they have a vast knowledge base and a unique perspective. Most often than not they have the effect of broadening the scope of any discussion, adding value and meaning to what would otherwise have been a very ordinary session.

The world would be a much better place if everyone read fiction, particularly. Fiction helps reduce stress and increases imagination and creativity. It also helps increase empathy for others, as books welcome you to walk a mile in another's shoes and look at the world from varied perspectives. Reading books allows the reader to live multiple lives, and gives the mind food for thought, allowing us to better utilize our brain cells and have a well-informed opinion on diverse subjects. Keeping in mind all these plus points of reading, every bookworm should resolve to influence at least 5 people over the course of their lives to join the club. It is a good idea to start by trying to influence young children since they are ideally not possessed by strong prejudices

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