Do you struggle to read as much as you’d like? You’re not alone. But if you aspire to read more, there are some tricks that can push you to reach your goal. Here are a few quick tips to help you read more books.
Stick With What You Love
If you’re someone who hasn’t read, let alone finished, a book in a year (or two, or twelve), sometimes it’s hard to know where to start or what to read. Don’t overthink it! There’s no shame in rereading something you already know you love or sticking with an author or genre you enjoy. In fact, rereading books can help you better understand your own tastes. You also might pick up on things you missed before, or have a different perspective on the material than when you last read the book. After all, part of the enjoyment that comes with reading can be self-discovery.
Make It Part of Your Routine
Take a look at your daily schedule. Is there a 15-minute window that’s free of responsibilities? Integrating reading into your routine is a great way to make progress on a book, even if it is only for a few minutes every day. Pick a time that works for you. Set yourself reminders if you’re forgetful. Stick with it, and pretty soon, you won’t even have to think about it! Reading will just be a habit.
Get Rid of Distractions
Reading requires concentration and active engagement. If you plan on reading on a smart device, temporarily disable notifications. You can even schedule a Do Not Disturb mode if you’re reading at the same time every day. If you’re old school and want to stick with physical books, put your phone away. Live with someone? Let them know you need some quiet time.
Rituals are beneficial, too. Turn on some relaxing music if it helps you focus. Light some mood candles if it helps you, well, get in the mood to read. Give yourself an environment that helps you stay immersed in the words on a page – and in your imagination. Jot down your feelings. Highlight or write out passages that stick out to you. All these practices can help you stay focused during your reading time.
Embrace Audiobooks
Yes, listening to audiobooks counts as reading. While listening to and visually reading a story are obviously different acts, studies show people who listen to books remember them just as well as those who read them. In fact, audiobooks can enhance elements of the story. And it’s not as though listening to a book has no precedent. As children we listen to stories before we’re able to read them, and there is a long tradition of oral storytelling. If you’re new to this format, it may take you some time to improve your listening comprehension, but it can be a rewarding experience when it finally clicks. Give it a try!
A New Chapter
We hope this helps start a new, exciting chapter in your reading journey! Check out our blog for more lifestyle tips and info on upcoming events.