“If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.” – Stephen King
Reading is a very crucial part of writing. However, most bloggers do not read as much as they write. In the beginning, one can survive without having to read anything, but with time one will find it difficult to get new ideas and fresh content. As a blogger, one should always remember that people read to be informed or/and entertained. You do not want your audience to keep asking why they are reading your blog. Ideas help your writing grow, remain enlightened and stay relevant. Reading also aids in creating new ideas and in the end fresh content on one’s blog that will always be up to date.
The more you read the more you will become. This statement speaks for itself. Read anything that comes your way, not only books but also newspapers, magazine and journals either online or in print. Always be willing to read outside your comfort zone. Read on the material that fascinates you the most but do not be inclined to this alone. You don’t want to be overwhelmed by reading books that are not within your realm for a long time and loose the essence of reading. If you are a fan of romance novels, try reading autobiographies and vice versa.
Diversify on your reading and develop a reading culture where a happy or dull moment will never miss a book. Read as you travel, more so when using public transport, at home during your down time, at the bank/waiting room as you wait to be served and any other place that gives you the opportunity to read. Always keep in mind that reading should be a regular habit, not a one-time habit; like reading one book once a year and saying that you read, because today there are many resources for reading materials and not just the ‘old-fashioned’ books.
Since you are writing for this century, the technique and style you use when writing need to be of this day and age. However, this does not mean you should not read and emulate the classics. These are famous works that are to be admired. The classics enable you to figure out how the writer developed his or her idea for a story or book.
Technology has made life easier and one does not necessarily need to carry a book everywhere. You can easily use a mobile device such as phones and tablets and even laptops. Fill these devices with a number of books for your knowledge and entertainment. Online magazines, newpapers and journals are also easily accesible more so on these devices.
Keeping a journal as a blogger also goes a long way in budding your writing skills. Writing one’s thought down in a physical notebook or a notepad in ones mobile device assist in keeping your thoughts in line as you note down what resonates with you more as you read.
Irrespective of your work, your current life situation, your background, or the path you wish to take in life, reading is the key to upward mobility. It may not assure success, but it surely increases the chances of it.