> In my opinion, reading is more for shaping your thoughts over time.

Absolutely agree. I often liken reading (at least reading fiction) to the leaking basket fable [0]. I'm not sure of it's origin but the linked description is in the context of reading Buddhist spritual texts. This mindset has also made reading much more enjoyable for me, because I've stopped caring whether or not I can instantly recall details of books that I've read.

[0] https://www.itstimetomeditate.org/leaking-basket-indian-fabl...