Trent over at The Simple Dollar has an excellent post about “What, Why, and How I Read“. I knew that he was well read, but it was still a shock to hear the vast amount of reading he does each day. Four books and four magazines in a week is pretty amazing. One commenter mentions how that comes down to two pages a minute in the couple hours he reads each day. But the content in his blog goes to show his knowledge and expertise on many subjects.

According to this article, Americans watch an average of 19 hours of television each week. That’s almost 3 hours a day. Yikes! When I started college I committed to reading consistently each day. If we can afford to watch 3 hours of television, surely we can afford to read for at least 1 hour a day.

So here’s a typical reading schedule I have each day:
- 30 minutes of reading my Bible (My quiet time with God)
- 30 minutes of reading magazines or blogs
- 30-60 minutes of reading various books

The magazines I read currently are The Economist and Kiplinger’s. Since I don’t have cable to watch CNN, I get my world news facts mainly from The Economist. This news magazine has heavy content, and I often struggle to finish an issue in one week before the next one arrives. But reading it helps me keep informed about world politics, finance, and science and technology. I highly recommend it. Kiplinger’s is a personal finance magazine that I also highly recommend. I used to get Money magazine, which is equally as good. What I really appreciate about Kiplinger’s magazine is that no matter what level of expertise you have, there are always new tips and insights you can learn.

I’m usually reading 3-4 books at any given time. Currently I’m reading:
Weight of Glory - C. S. Lewis
Comma Sutra: Position Yourself For Success With Good Grammar - Laurie Rozakis
Frommer’s Greece - John Bowman (For my upcoming honeymoon)

Read all sorts of literature and writing to exercise your mind. Sometimes I pick up classics to challenge my level of reading. All in all, reading increases my knowledge, adds to my vocabulary, and improves my writing. If you aren’t in the habit of reading each day, set a goal and try it out. Even a commitment to read 30 minutes a day can greatly benefit you.

One final thought. Whenever I fly on a plane or take public transportation, I always notice people that have nothing to read. This boggles my mind. As soon as I get into my seat I pull out one of my magazines or one of my books and start reading. Then usually the guy next to me looks at me and gives me a bored look. But after a few minutes he reaches for the Skymall catalogue and peruses it three times from cover to cover. My advice, don’t ever be caught without something to read. Most of you carry a backpack or purse, so it’s easy to carry a magazine or a paperback with you. In fact, I carry a pocket New Testament on my person at all times. I’ve turned to it many times when I have some down time, or I’m in a situation where I’m waiting for something.

I found this deal over at MyMoneyBlog. In conjunction with a National Body Challenge 2007 sponsored by the Discovery Channel, if you sign up you receive a 8 week free trial at a Bally Total Fitness. You have to go and sign up by tomorrow, Jan 16th.

I’m gonna go in today after work and sign myself up. I haven’t hit the gym since college so it’ll be nice to use some machines. I have 4 months until my wedding so my goal is to bulk up at least 10 lbs.

According to Money Magazine, the average shopper will spend $907 on gifts this Christmas season.  You don’t need any more reasons to spend and add to your credit card bills.  If you are looking for free alternatives during your down time this winter break, consider what physical activities you can get the whole family to join in on.

- For those that live in warmer areas, there’s nothing like enjoying the outdoors.  Go hiking in a local trail, go jogging, play Ultimate, flag football, etc.  Not only is it free, but you can burn those extra calories you’ve added because of holiday dinners.

- Even a long walk with loved ones can burn calories and keep you fit.  Instead of driving, walk to your local library, restaurant, or supermarket.

- Finally, if you’ve got no place to go, exercise your mind.  Read books and increase your knowledge instead of watching re-runs on TV.  I’ll share more tomorrow about where to go and how to make the most of the internet.