Lifestyle

How to Read More Books in 9 Simple Steps

Posted on November 10, 2019

When’s the last time you picked up a book and actually read it? Do you find yourself wanting to read more, but can’t ever find the time to do so? Keyword being: TIME. I get it, adulthood is real, and you may not have as much free time on your hands in comparison to your younger years. Luckily for you, I have some helpful tips that can help you read more books. Keep reading to find out what they are!

The Benefits of Reading More

Before we get started, I think it is important to note that reading is super important, no matter how old you are or where you are in your life. I guess I may seem a little biased because I’m an author (insert creepy smiley face), but this is much bigger than me! I remember when I used to read 4-5 books a month, now I’m I’m lucky if I ready 4-5 books a year! Crazy right? Yes, life is constantly happening and it can feel like there’s not enough time in the day, but READING IS FUNDAMENTAL! In fact, research shows that reading is a habit that has many mental health benefits including: stress reduction, mental simulation, improved focus and memory (just to name a few). In addition to the mental health benefits, reading increases your knowledge. And knowledge is power!

How to Read More Books in 9 Steps

Here are 9 simple things you can do to read more books and reap the benefits that more active reading can offer to your life.

Be Proactive About Reading

In other words, make a plan to read. You should make reading more a priority in your life. Having intentions and a plan of action in place makes performing the task much easier to accomplish. Yes at first it may take a conscious effort, but you’re actively developing a new habit.

Take Advantage of Idle Time

You know, those minutes or hours of down time that you have throughout the day? Pick up a book and read! Ride the train to work? Read! On the treadmill? Read! Have an hour long lunch break at work? Read! You get the picture right?

Incorporate Reading Into Your Daily Routine

Think about your daily routine, do you have a rock solid morning routine? Or things you do before bed that will help you unwind? Incorporate reading into that routine, even if it’s for 5-10 minutes each day.

Use Audio-books

Ok, I won’t lie – I was so opposed to audio-books! But one day, I decided to take advantage of the Audible Amazon 30-day trial, and I read 3 books in less than a month! If you’re always on the go, I’d definitely suggest giving audio-books a try.

Start Small

As I mentioned before, this is all about building a new habit. To that, you should start small, whatever that means for you. Some people suggest only reading a page, while others suggest reading only for a few minutes. The goal is to make the task so small that it doesn’t feel like work. Then eventually, you’ll get so used to it, reading will become automatic.

Pick up a book, instead of the remote

Yes, I’m talking to you. On average, Americans spend at least four hours a day watching television! 4 hours a day is 28 hour hours a week, or 120 hours a month! That is plenty of time to knock a few books out if you ask me.

Keep books at your finger-tips

Keep a book in your bag, on your phone or tablet! Convenience is key here. There are plenty of apps out there that make reading easier than ever. I personally love Kindle Unlimited! I get access to free books and new titles that drop daily.

Make a List

I know some people advise against this. But I don’t. If you know me, I’m a planner. Having a list of books that you want to check out can actually motivate you to read. Now I’d say definitely be flexible with this, but give it a shot! If you’re looking for some reading list inspiration, check out my fall reading list here.

Find a Reading Buddy

Is there a book club in your area? Do you have a friend that loves to read too? Link up! When you join others with reading, it keeps you accountable and on track.

There you have it, those are my 9 tips to help you read more books!! Now get to reading! Before you go, be sure to check out my books as well… might as well right!

Monique Elise

Monique is an author and blogger that specializes in giving lifestyle, dating and personal finance tips.

How to Read More Books in 9 Simple Steps

The Benefits of Reading More