The optimism survey results are in and the numbers have spoken: reading books make you feel better about yourself.
While the official survey report zeroed in on the importance of a constellation live events like music concerts, theatrical performances, and speeches, the one “optimism booster” cited by more respondents than any other—88 percent—was “books.” Unfortunately, that’s not broken down by categories, so it’s not quite clear whether fiction or non-fiction lifts people’s spirits, so you should probably read a little of both, just to be on the safe side.
(Meanwhile, 56 percent of those surveyed say they feel optimistic after attending poetry readings, which was pleasantly surprising as we had not realized poetry readings were so popular—although clearly they should be!)
As a matter of fact, I have it on good authority that one book in particular does wonders for people looking to boost their self-esteem and overall sense of well-being. I conducted that survey myself, so you know the results couldn’t possibly be weighted.
I recommend two at once.