For the Love of Books during the Rainy Days

This year, I set a goal to cover more books. Back in the day, I could breeze through dozens without breaking a sweat. Yet, because of the demanding lifestyle of adulthood (and adulting), I noticed my reading pace slowing down. Life got louder, and books got pushed to the background. It’s time to change that.

Last month, I finally got myself a digital audio player (DAP)—something I’d been debating for a while. Sure, most smartphones can handle the same function, but I wanted something different: a way to disconnect and stay more focused while enjoying audiobooks. I also saw it as a more compact, travel-friendly option. I used to bring my iPad mini on trips so that I could read my e-books while on flight, but with recent travels where I could barely manage a checked-in bag, I realized how purposeful and convenient a lightweight DAP could be.

I had a goal of covering at least one book a week. Or four books a month. That means a minimum of 52 books in a year. Sounds ambitious? Let’s see how I fare for the second half of the year.

In my first week alone, I breezed through four books. I listen to a wide range of genres—autobiographies, health and wellness, business, motivational, self-help, and more. I even have audiobook versions of my e-books, so instead of letting them gather digital dust in my reader, I actually get to enjoy and finish them.

I bring my DAP everywhere. I listen in while I’m stuck in traffic, while I’m out in a restaurant eating, or even when I’m asked by my nephews to watch them play their mobile games. 

Now that the monsoon season has arrived, I find myself truly savoring the quiet moments spent indoors. There’s something comforting about the rhythm of rainfall outside while I’m tucked in with a warm drink and a good book—or in this case, an audiobook. These rainy days have become a perfect backdrop for slowing down, reflecting, and reclaiming time for myself. Instead of just letting the hours slip by, I use them to nourish my mind and soul, making my alone time feel both restful and productive.

Lately, I’ve also made a conscious effort to unplug from the endless cycle of doom scrolling—a habit that has become all too common in our generation. It’s easy to get swept up in the constant flood of negativity and distraction online, but I’ve realized how much more fulfilling it is to engage with something that uplifts me, teaches me, or simply lets me breathe. Replacing idle screen time with purposeful listening has not only helped me stay grounded but also brought back the joy of learning in the most unexpected pockets of my day.

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