Rediscovering the Joy of Reading in a Busy World

In a world overflowing with distractions, many find their passion for reading diminished. For Sareena Naganand, a sophomore studying Biomedical Engineering at Rutgers University in Piscataway, New Jersey, the experience of getting lost in a book has become increasingly rare. On February 1, 2026, while engrossed in Kelly Rimmer’s historical fiction novel, The Things We Cannot Say, Naganand reflected on how time constraints and the pressures of academic life have impacted her love for literature.

As she flipped the pages of Rimmer’s novel, Naganand was startled by a sudden plot twist that took the life of a key character. This moment of shock sparked a nostalgic journey through her reading history, recalling how stories once captivated her imagination and fueled her curiosity about history, particularly regarding World War II.

Naganand reminisced about past literary adventures, recalling the emotional investment she felt while reading Born a Crime by Trevor Noah and When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. These books not only entertained her but also inspired her to explore deeper themes and ideas. “It was Kalanithi’s work that helped me envision a career blending medicine, innovation, and the humanities,” she noted.

Striking a Balance Between Reading and Responsibilities

Despite her love for reading, Naganand acknowledges that her busy schedule often hampers her ability to fully immerse herself in stories. “It’s not that I don’t enjoy reading as much as I used to; I enjoy it too much,” she explained. The constant reminders of homework and other responsibilities linger in her mind, drawing her attention away from the pages.

The reality of modern life means that time spent scrolling through social media platforms often replaces moments that could be dedicated to reading. Naganand pointed out that while these activities fill brief breaks in her day, they do not provide the same enriching experience that literature does. “Reading is a way to take a break and spend time valuably,” she expressed.

She recognizes that the pressure to achieve a focused mindset before reading is self-imposed. “The barrier here is entirely self-created,” she admitted, pondering how little moments with a book could accumulate over time, regardless of her hectic schedule.

The Lasting Impact of Stories

Naganand’s reflections extend beyond mere enjoyment; they underscore the profound impact that stories have on shaping values and perspectives. She cited Thrity Umrigar’s The Secrets Between Us as a pivotal read that painted a vivid picture of urban Mumbai and inspired her creative writing.

“Succinct yet powerful dialogues from books have provided insight during stressful times,” she revealed. Even months after reading, the characters and plots linger in her memory, offering comfort and clarity at unexpected moments.

Ultimately, Naganand argues that the heart of reading lies in exposure to diverse worldviews and the inspiration that literature provides. As she navigates her academic and personal life, she acknowledges that the stories she encounters will continue to shape her motivations and actions. “Reading is what got me here in the first place,” she concluded, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the written word amid the demands of everyday life.

In a society that often prioritizes productivity over leisure, Naganand’s experience serves as a reminder of the value of storytelling and the need to carve out time for the transformative power of reading.