I would like to preface this blog post by saying that when it comes to reading, quality should come before quantity. By quality, I don’t mean that one should only read classics. What I mean is that books should be enjoyed at one’s own pace and reading shouldn’t be a competition. Some people read faster than others, some have more time or are just capable of staying concentrated for longer. Having said that, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to read more. If you’ve found yourself in a reading slump or would like to read more books for any other reason, this blog post is for you. Let’s get into the tips.
1. Get rid of your phone
Obviously, I don’t mean that literally – you probably need it. But do leave it outside the room in which you’re about to read or at least so far you can’t reach it while sitting or lying down. The fact that you won’t be able to grab it and scroll will probably make you read more pages. If you’re finding yourself standing up and going for your phone, delete social media apps for a few hours (or days, it’ll probably do you good) or get a blocking app (I’m using Stay Focused).
2. Ditch the classics and the complicated
If you’re in a reading slump, classics, very deep or complicated and depressing books probably aren’t your friends. I understand that they might’ve been sitting on your nightstand for months or even years, but it won’t hurt them to stay there a bit longer. Reach for your favorite genre instead – for a light summer romance or an exciting thriller or that new sci-fi novel everyone’s talking about. A fast-paced plot and simple language are your best choice right now.
3. Choose a reading time
Many people find time to read before bed, but for some, mornings or lunchtime might work better. If you’re an evening reader, go to bed a bit earlier and read a little – even if it’s just ten minutes.
4. Set a timer
I know this seems silly, but it might motivate you to actually read because this is what you’re timing yourself for.
5. Ditch the TV/Netflix – at least for a while
Most people don’t have loads of time after work, and if you’ll insist on watching an episode or three every single evening, you’ll probably have trouble finding the time to read. Watch just one episode or don’t watch TV every day. If you want to read more, you’ll have to do less of something else (and something else usually involves a screen).
6. Start listening to audiobooks
Audiobooks aren’t for everyone; some people say they can’t focus on them. This is probably because most people listen to them while doing other things, and sometimes it is hard to focus on both. Some also read them while lying down or sitting in a comfy chair, but I’m not one of them. Either way, if you like them, audiobooks can be a great way to read more. I usually get mine on Audible, but there are many other sources too.
7. Have multiple sources
Besides physical books, both hardcover and paperback, and audiobooks, I also read e-books on my Kindle. This way, I never run out of book sources. In addition to bookstores, some grocery stores and airports are also good places to buy books. I sometimes also buy them at book fairs and in second-hand bookshops. Swapping books with friends is also a great idea!
8. Browse Goodreads
Goodreads is like a social media for books. Authors as well as readers have their profiles, post ratings and reviews and talk about books. There, you can always find lists of the most popular books in different genres.
9. Try something new
If you’ve never read a thriller, you might not even know that you’re into them (this actually happened to me). Don’t be afraid of trying a new genre. Read a non-fiction book, read poetry, read anything that will mean a change in reading habits.
10. Join a book club
Besides being good places to meet people, book clubs will make you read. You’ll feel obligated to finish the novel of the week/month because you won’t be able to discuss it otherwise.
Some don’ts
- Don’t force yourself to finish a book you’re not enjoying. Even if it’s a classic or everyone else loves it.
- Don’t read on your phone or on your computer – too many distractions + weird light.
- Don’t compare your reading choices or your pace to other people’s picks and reading speed.
My experience with reading (more)
Like many other people, I read a lot as a child (I was a huge Harry Potter fan) and teenager but then stopped reading so much at university. This was due to many things: lack of time, partying, watching TV series and also the fact that I already had to read a lot for uni. I did read novels while I was studying, just not with such devotion as before and not so fast. I slowly got into it again during my last years of university. What helped me was getting a Kindle, starting listening to audiobooks and becoming a member of Goodreads. I also started loosely following Bookstagram and writing book reviews on this blog.
Last year, I managed to read fifty books, and then this year, I thought I would read sixty. Well, I probably won’t because it’s August, and I haven’t even reached thirty yet. But guess what – I don’t care. And I don’t care about the books sitting on my nightstand that much either – I read whatever I feel like reading. And you should too!
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