Reading vs. Listening book – Is there suppose to be a debate?

I prefer non-fictional, self development type books. Some people call them the boring types. But I love them. I get very excited about a good read; they capture my attention and get me thinking.

Some of those books are very light hearted and have a lot of interactions to keep me engaged. But some books are heavy with intense material and detailed statistical analysis that needs to be processed. Sometimes the material gets monotonous & boring, sometimes because the book is going in the same tone or using the similar examples again and again or mostly because I have listened/read enough for the day. You know – ‘I Just Had Enough…..’

I enjoy both reading & listening depending on the book and what type of material it holds. It is one of those choices you make depending on the book, your lifestyle and the time commitments.

How would I decide?

Reading…….

If I were to choose a book to read, it would be the one that is on the heavy side. The book that has lot of detailed analysis and examples to back it up. So when I read such a book, I can take time to make notes, and pause to let my own thoughts reflect for a while. No worries of paying attention on the road or splitting focus with another task @ hand. Example: Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

• Reading allows you to focus your attention
• Ignore the surrounding and dedicate your time
• Be immersed into the dialogue that the book is having with you
• Build vocabulary
• Freedom to pause at any second and think about what you just read
• Be engaged with yourself as you read
• It means carrying at times carrying books, kindle, iPad, Nook, or any other reading device that you have
• You can also read while driving … Whoa…. Only if you are not in a driver seat 

Listening…….

The book I would choose to listen would be a lighthearted one with a good narrator. The narrator has to be engaging me in a conversation. The book that may have examples or a little analysis but mostly is providing me with good information to use in my day to day life right away. Example: Made to Stick

• Listening allows you to multi-task
• It is a one of the best options for learning something new in your busy life
• It does not require carrying multiple books with you, but just the gadget which holds all your audio books
• Learn pronunciation of certain words, and art of saying things
• Freedom to pause at any second and think about what you just heard
• Be engaged with the narrator as they read the book to you
• Save trees. No need for paper to print

Reading when tired or listening to a monotonous narrator will work as a lullaby to your ears. Make sure you are already caught up on all your Zzzzzzzzz’s…. You don’t want to fall asleep during your lunch break while reading only to wake up few hours later (oops). Neither do you want to feel sleepy while driving as you listen to a non-engaging narrator (scary)

Fun Fun Fun ways to enjoy reading:

• Join the book club or call friends over to read a chapter and then discuss what you just read. Don’t forget the snacks 
• Coffee places have the best environment to relax and enjoy reading your book. Aahhhh… the smell of coffee

Fun Fun Fun ways to enjoy listening:

• Take your iPod, iPhone, MP3, or any gadget with audio books and go for a brisk walk. You will be very happy to have completed a chapter or two and the time flies
• Instead of listening to the radio or watching TV, try listening to a book when you are in the gym, or driving. You will be amazed at how fast you completed that workout or reached to your destination