I know there is also a belief that we need to be "productive" all the time. I don't subscribe to that philosophy and choose to spend some of my time just enjoying what life has to offer.

I can't recall ever being asked by people outside of my family why I "waste my time" reading, but if I ever was asked, I would probably respond that I have created a life that allows me to spend time doing what I want to do, and reading is top of that list.