When it comes to reading, well, we could all probably read more books.
Finding reading motivation isn’t easy, especially when you’re living a busy life. But finding time to read should be a priority, not only for your enjoyment, but to ease stress and give you a sense of accomplishment.
If you need some tips on how to read more books this year, start with this list!
1. Use an E-Reader
Using an E-reader may be one of the best ways you can convince yourself to start reading again. While some people like the classic page-turning experience of reading a physical book, others find it cumbersome and awkward.
If the latter sounds like you, then e-books may be exactly what you need to start reading again! They’re small and slim, easy to fit in a purse or briefcase, so you can keep them with you no matter where you are. You also have the added benefit of being able to carry hundreds of books at a time!
If an e-reader like a Kindle isn’t your style, but you like the idea of using a screen to read, then you can also read kindle book on mac.
2. Make It Apart of Your Routine
Whether you know you have time first thing in the morning or right before you go to bed, find the time within your daily routine that you can dedicate to reading.
Making it a part of your routine will naturally make it easier to stick with it, like brushing your teeth or taking the dog on a walk.
3. Read With Others
Sometimes it can be difficult to hold ourselves accountable when we’re the only one who knows about our goals. Reading with other people can help keep us accountable because we’re not only reading for ourselves, but for them too.
Joining a book club or deciding to read a book simultaneously as a friend and setting small goals along the way can make it easier to ensure you’re sticking with it.
4. Mix Up Genres
If you’re a fan of crime dramas and that’s all you ever read, you might be bored with the genre and not even know it! While you might be drawn to the same types of books every time you visit the bookstore, try something new the next time.
It may just pique your interest enough to want to start reading right away!
5. Start Small
Magazines and small books can be a great way to get back into reading if you haven’t been reading lately. Be gentle with yourself, and don’t force yourself to start a huge nonfiction book or a 7-book series your first attempt at reading again.
Starting small is still reading, and it can help get you into a routine to prepare for larger or more complicated works.
6. Keep A Book Handy
When you keep a book handy, you’ll be much more likely to use it than going on Instagram or Twitter. Keep a book in your car as you’re waiting in the pickup line at school or in your purse or briefcase when you’re at lunch.
Having a book handy gives you no excuse when you suddenly realize, “This would be the perfect time to read.” Inspiration to read might strike anywhere, so be prepared!
7. Give Yourself Attainable Goals
When it comes to starting a new habit like reading, setting goals is important for establishing how and why you’re going to do something. Maybe you want to learn 10 new words each week or finish 2 books every month.
Whatever your goal may be, make sure it’s SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-based). These goals can help you keep things under control when it feels like starting is the hardest part.
8. Try a Book Subscription Service
Nowadays, you don’t even have to visit a bookstore to buy your books. You can use second-hand shops online or use a book subscription service. These are fun because if you’re a fast reader, they can give you an incentive to finish your books before the next ones come.
If you’re not a quick reader, that’s okay! They can also show you new and popular works that others have enjoyed and send you things you might not pick for yourself.
9. Replace TV With Books
You may not realize how much time you spend on television until it’s time to replace it with a good book. While the time isn’t always best to read, see when you like to watch TV. Notice if this is a time that could easily be replaced with a book, such as when you’re watching alone or in bed.
10. Use Audio Books
Audiobooks, like podcasts, can be great to listen to in place of music. Sometimes we just want something more educational or more stimulating than music or a podcast, and audiobooks can be great for this!
You can easily download them on your phone, tablet, or computer to listen to while you walk, exercise, or eat lunch! The best part is that they’re convenient and easy to implement into any part of your life.
Read More Books This Year
Did these tips for reading more make you want to pick up a new book? If so, then do it! Don’t put it off again! Order one online, visit your local bookshop or shop your shelves for an old favorite.
Reading should be enjoyable for people of all ages and stages in their life. Read more books, and you just may find a sense of accomplishment you’ve been missing out on.
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