People who read instead of watching TV before bed usually display these 9 traits, according to psychology
Ever wonder why some people swap the TV remote for a good book before bed?
While most of us are tempted to binge the latest show until our eyes droop, there’s a unique breed of people who stick to their nightly reading routine.
And according to psychology, these bedtime bookworms often have some pretty interesting traits that set them apart.
If you’re one of those who can’t resist a few chapters before dozing off, or you’re curious about why someone might choose a novel over Netflix, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive into the nine fascinating traits people who read before bed often display—and who knows, by the end of this, you might be reaching for a book instead of the remote tonight!
1) They are creative
Creativity isn’t just about producing art or writing a novel.
It’s a trait that can be seen in everyday choices and decisions.
If you’re someone who prefers to read before bed instead of watching TV, you might be more creative than you realize.
This habit indicates an active engagement with the imagination, a trait inherent in creative individuals.
You choose to dive into a world crafted from words, letting your mind paint the pictures and create the scenes.
In contrast, TV provides all the visuals and sounds for you, leaving less room for your imagination to work.
Often, you’ll find that these night-time readers are also the ones who come up with innovative solutions to problems during the day.
They are the ones who can see beyond the obvious and bring fresh perspectives.
After all, they’ve been practicing this skill every night with their books!
2) They have better stress management
Stress is a part of life. However, how we manage it can make a world of difference.
People who read before bed tend to have better stress management skills.
Reading is a form of escapism, allowing you to immerse yourself in a different world and momentarily forget about the day’s worries.
It’s like a mini-vacation for your mind.
Moreover, reading slows down the pace of life. In a world where everything is fast-paced and instant, picking up a book and reading it word by word helps to slow things down.
This slow pace can have a calming effect and help reduce stress levels.
3) They embrace solitude
While it may seem like people who prefer to read instead of watching TV before bed are isolating themselves, it’s actually quite the opposite.
These individuals understand the value and importance of solitude.
Reading is a solitary activity that allows them to spend quality time with themselves.
This is not to be mistaken for loneliness. Rather, it’s an intentional act of self-care and introspection.
In these quiet moments of reading they;
- Get to discover new things
- Reflect on their thoughts
- Engage in deep thinking
This ability to enjoy their own company can lead to a stronger sense of self, better emotional health, and increased independence.
4) They struggle with sleep
This might not be the most glamorous trait, but it’s worth mentioning – many people who read before bed tend to struggle with sleep.
Reading can be a way to unwind, escape, and quieten the mind before sleep. But it can also be a sign that sleep doesn’t come easy.
It’s a peaceful way to pass the time during bouts of insomnia, or a method to delay the thoughts that can flood in when the lights go out.
It’s not all bad, though.
Reading a physical book (not an e-reader) before bed has been found to help with sleep readiness.
The act of reading can tire the eyes and make sleep more inviting. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to tossing and turning or staring at a screen.
5) They are patient
Patience is a virtue, and it’s one that many bedtime readers possess.
Reading a book isn’t a race to the finish line. It’s about:
- Savouring each word
- Immersing in the narrative
- Appreciating the journey
Unlike watching TV, where the story unfolds rapidly, reading requires time and patience – qualities that are often reflected in other areas of a reader’s life.
These individuals understand that good things take time.
They wait for character development, for plot twists, for resolutions.
This ability to wait translates into their daily lives – they tend to be more patient with people, with challenges, and with themselves.
6) They are lifelong learners
Remember that feeling as a kid when you couldn’t wait to know what happens next in your favorite storybook?
Well, for people who read before bed, that curiosity never faded.
These individuals are lifelong learners. They are :
- Continually seeking knowledge
- Broadening their horizons
- Quenching their thirst for understanding the world better
Reading books is one way they keep this curiosity alive.
Whether it’s historical fiction informing them about past events, a science fiction imagining futuristic technologies, or a biography offering insights into someone else’s life – every book is a new opportunity to learn.
7) They have a knack for storytelling
If you’ve ever sat down with someone who loves to read, you’ll know they can spin a tale like no other!
People who read before bed have a knack for storytelling that’s almost infectious.
After all, they spend their nights traveling to distant lands, solving mysteries, and living different lives through the pages of their books. They:
- Meet countless characters
- Experience numerous plots
- Navigate through intricate narratives every night
All this makes them quite adept at retelling stories, sharing anecdotes, and even creating their own tales.
8) They can be procrastinators
Now, here’s a trait that many avid readers might be guilty of – procrastination.
Reading before bed can sometimes be a way to put off tomorrow’s tasks, to delay facing the reality of a new day.
That extra chapter might seem more inviting than planning for the meeting the next morning.
Who wouldn’t prefer a thrilling plot twist over thinking about looming deadlines?
Sure, it’s not the most commendable trait, but it’s a real one. And it’s essential to recognize it if you are to deal with it.
9) They prioritize self-care
Above all, people who read before bed understand the importance of self-care.
Reading is a way to nourish their minds and souls.
It’s their me-time, a conscious decision to disconnect from the world and connect with themselves.
By choosing a book over TV, they’re opting for a quieter, more mindful activity that reduces screen time and promotes better mental health.
In this fast-paced world where taking care of oneself often takes a backseat, this habit of bedtime reading is a powerful act of self-care.
It’s a gentle reminder that it’s okay to slow down, relax, and do something you love.
In conclusion
So, if you’re someone who reaches for a book instead of the TV remote before bed, it turns out you’re in pretty good company.
From stress management skills to increased creativity, the traits you’re building go far beyond just a good night’s sleep.
And if you’re not yet a bedtime reader, maybe now’s the perfect time to give it a shot—there’s more to gain than just a great story.
Whether you’re escaping into a novel or diving into non-fiction, reading before bed is like giving your brain a little workout while unwinding.
So, the next time you’re tempted by one more episode, maybe crack open a book instead.
Who knows? You might just discover a new favorite habit—and a few new strengths along the way!