Reading doesn’t have to be burdensome. It can and should be enjoyable.
Whether you’re an avid reader or just starting to discover the joy of books, I’ve got some easy tips to help you make reading a regular and enjoyable part of your life.
Before we go on, why should we even bother to read?
Reading means different things to different people. For some, it is a means of escape – “to be lost in the world through words”; for some, it is a way to garner knowledge.
“If you are going to get anywhere in life you have to read a lot of books”
– Roard Dahl
Whatever your reasons for reading, here are five easy tips to read even more books:
1. Choose Books You Love
Reading is a delightful experience when you’re exploring subjects that pique your interests. So, pick books on subjects that excite you. Whether it is sports, religion, yoga, history, personal development or heart-warming stories, there’s a book out there waiting to become your new best friend.
2. Keep Books in Sight
Keep your books in a conspicuous spot, like by your bedside or on your table.
In the bestseller “Atomic habits”, James Clear highlighted four laws of behaviour change: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying.
The “Make It Obvious” law recognizes that human behaviour is often driven by triggers in our environment. For example, you are more likely to drink water if you have a bottle of water on your table.
So, don’t just leave your books on your bookshelf. Make them obvious. This way, they’ll always be within reach, calling out to you with their enchanting stories.
3. Dedicate a Special Reading Time/Place
To make reading a habit, set aside dedicated time for it. For instance, you can decide to read just before bedtime, or even during lunch breaks.
Having a designated reading time will create a routine that will be hard to break.
Soon, you will begin to associate that time or place with reading. Bedtime will mean pick-up-a-book time. Lunch time will be study time.
Also, you can personalize your reading experience by snuggling up in your favourite couch or in that spot that brings you joy.
Try reading under a tree if you love nature.
This cozy sanctuary will make each page-turning journey all the more enjoyable!
4. Use Habit-Stacking to read more books
Have you ever heard of habit-stacking? It’s an easy trick to incorporate new habits into your daily life.
In this case, you link your reading time with an activity you already do every day. Let’s say you take the bus to work, you can read a few pages during your daily commute.
Before you know it, reading will be seamlessly woven into your daily rituals.
5. Join Reading Groups/Book Clubs
Reading can be even more fun when you’re part of a reading group. You share your thoughts with friends, colleagues, or online book clubs. A reading group can provide motivation and keep you on track with your reading goals.
You may even discover new books through the reading group and find friends with similar interests.
Conclusion
Remember, you’re not alone on this reading journey – you’ve got me cheering you on.
The most challenging step is getting started!
Starting any new habit can be tough, but the secret is in taking that first step.
Even if you can spare just 5 minutes a day to read, go for it! Those 5 minutes will quickly turn into 10, then 15, and soon you’ll find yourself lost in words for longer periods.
Every book you read expands your horizons and takes you on an exciting adventure without ever leaving your cozy reading nook.
So, let’s recap our reading tips:
– Choose books that excite you.
– Keep your books within sight, so they call you to read more.
– Set a dedicated reading time/place for consistency.
– Use habit-stacking to weave reading into your daily routine.
– Join reading groups and share the magic of books with friends.
Remember, reading isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the wonderful journey each book takes you on. One book at a time, let your imagination soar!
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Happy reading, fellow bookworms!
Thanks Joy for the insight. Can you suggest any reading club?
Hi Blessing. I don’t know any currently running. You can check Eventbrite or Meetup or even Facebook for bookclubs in your area.