‘The universe is not made of atoms; it’s made of tiny stories.’ – Joseph Gordon Levitt.

Do you know a bookworm? Maybe you think of yourself as one? It not something usually associated with how to improve social skills.

The word conjures up an image of a socially awkward brainiac. It suggests a person who seeks solace in the pages of a book. The bookworm is seen as intellectual but uncomfortable engaging and interacting with their fellow humans.  They are seen as the geek in the corner, not the life and soul of the party.

Why does being a bookworm improve social skills?

1. Supports Brain Development

Paradoxically it may be these bookworms that shall inherit the social earth. There is now evidence that reading fiction can support brain development to improve social skills. As we engage with a fictional character we begin to feel their feelings, laugh their laughter, cry their tears. We connect with them and learn how to interpret their emotions. This is a key attribute in social skills development.

2. Increases empathy skills

Consider the last work of fiction you read. You probably embarked on a journey in your imagination. This transportation into the story increases your ability to feel empathy leading to behavior, which can improve social skills.

3. Reflects real life

It is said that many of our favorite stories are drawn from real life. We are able to relate to characters as they reflect something within ourselves. The function of fiction is to draw out real social experiences and simulate them in a story.

In other words, comprehension of characters in a fictional setting can parallel the comprehension of those around you in the real world. By feeling what they feel, you are building your ability to sit in their shoes and empathise. This ability applies in everyday settings with other humans as much as it does when you have your nose in a good read.

Start boosting your social skills

So, if you feel you need to improve social skills and boost your ‘relateability’ why not curl up by the fire and tuck into a good old-fashioned yarn? Your social brain will thank you for it.

Happy reading (and connecting).

P.S. Looking for a book to stimulate this social side?

Check out the ‘Tiny Book of Tiny Stories’ by actor Joseph Gordon Levitt (see also above quote). It is both a work of fiction and testament to the power of social collaboration. 8,500 contributions fine tuned into 67 works of art and fiction.