Want to read more but aren’t quite sure how to make that happen?
No worries, I’ve come up with 3 tips that have helped me read everyday, even when it seems like I don’t have the time. Perhaps they will help you too.
When I use these tips consistently, I’m able to finish one book every 3 weeks. That’s 17 books a year! Not too shabby.
Let’s get into it.
Heads up: Affiliate links ahead, which means I could earn a small fee if you make a purchase using one of these links.
1. Make Reading a Priority
I tend to want to read after I’ve taken care of my essential things, which is right before bed. Problem is, I can barely keep my eyes open by that time. I try to read but end up falling asleep.
Because reading is important to me, I decided to prioritize it by doing it earlier in the day. That way I have more energy, am in a better head-space, and I won’t fall asleep.
I’ve learned that I’ll never read if I don’t make it a priority.
What will you do to prioritize your reading?
2. Find Pockets of Time to Read
This is not my favorite way to read.
I prefer leisurely reading for long stretches of time. But I’m not often able to do that, so that’s where this method comes in.
It gets the job done.
Some pockets of time I’ve found:
Before Work. I used to arrive at work super early (no I’m not a morning person). Instead of going straight into the office, I’d use the extra to read. I gained 30-45 minutes of daily reading time by doing this.
Break Times at Work. My job provides two paid, twenty minutes, breaks. One in the morning, the other in the afternoon. I often take advantage of these times to read.
Lunch Time at Work. I try to read a bit during my hour lunch break. I get more reading done when I bring lunch from home, since I don’t use valuable time going to pick up something to eat.
In The Car After Work – Have you ever just needed a moment to yourself after work, before you head home? I have. And do you know what I do with that time? I read for about 20 or 30 minutes. It helps me decompress from work, and go home calm and relaxed.
What pockets of time can you identify for yourself?
3. Set A Goal For The Day
Setting daily goals is a good way to ensure you read each and every day.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve planned to read, only for those plans to fall through. However, I’m much more likely to read if I give myself a manageable reading goal.
A few ways I do this are:
Chapters Read. If I’m reading a book with smallish chapters (15 pages or less) I’m more likely to use this method. An example of a goal would be to read 1 chapter today.
Minutes Read. This is another good way to make sure you’re reading. Set small, easy to manage, goals. Example: Today I will read for 20 minutes.
Pages Read. This is my go to when I’m reading a book that hasn’t hooked me yet. I’ll also use this to get back into reading, if I haven’t read anything in a while. I set small goals for myself: 10 pages read, 15 pages read, or something along those lines.
Try each one one for size and see which one works for you.
Bonus Tip: Audio Books
Audio Books are the ultimate when it comes to getting more reading done, because they’re so accessible and you can listen to them while you’re doing other things.
You can listen to them while you’re in the shower, getting ready for the day, commuting, cooking, cleaning, working out – whatever it is that you do.
Tip: If you don’t want to purchase an Audible membership, look into your local library. Some libraries have extensive selections of audio books for you to borrow.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, guys. The tips I use to read more books. Let’s recap:
1. Make Reading a Priority
2. Find Pockets of Time to Read
3. Set Daily Reading Goals
Bonus Tip: Utilize Audiobooks
Do you have a tip to add?
Tell me about it down below in the comments.
Happy Reading!
All the Best,
♥ Ash