Desultory reading is delightful, but to be beneficial, our reading must be carefully directed.

This quote emphasizes the importance of purposeful and focused reading. Desultory reading refers to reading without a specific aim or structure, perhaps jumping from one topic to another based on interest or curiosity. While this can be enjoyable, Seneca the Younger suggests that to truly derive benefit from reading, it must be directed and intentional. This could mean selecting books or articles that contribute to our personal or professional growth, or systematically studying a particular subject.

The idea of directed reading implies a level of self-discipline and commitment. It suggests actively choosing to engage with material that might challenge us or broaden our perspectives, rather than simply consuming content passively or for entertainment.

In today’s world, this concept is highly relevant. We are inundated with information from various sources, and it’s easy to fall into a pattern of desultory reading, especially with the prevalence of social media and digital news. However, to truly expand our knowledge and understanding, we need to be discerning and intentional about what we read.

In terms of personal development, this could mean choosing to read books that enhance our skills or understanding in specific areas, such as leadership, communication, or emotional intelligence. It might also involve regularly reading from reputable sources about current events or issues in our field of interest or work. By doing so, we can ensure that our reading not only entertains us, but also contributes to our growth and development.