The Benefits of Reading More
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.
Set a Reading Goal
The thing that’s great about setting goals is, it motivates you to do the things you want. So why not apply that to your reading time? Now, we all know that setting a goal is not merely enough, it takes some action, but it’s a start. Take a moment to think about all the books you want to read. You can start as small or big as you want, whether that’s 1 book per month or 10.
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. Wake up each day and make a conscious intention to read. When you do, you’ll be more inclined to actually pick up a book each day.
Take Advantage of Idle Time
Incorporate Reading Into Your Daily Routine
Just as I said earlier, if you want to read more books, you have to plan for it or else it won’t happen. Once you start planning for it and actually reading on a consistent basis, it will likely become a part of your daily routine. Take a moment to think about your current routine, do you have a rock solid morning routine? (If you don’t check out my amazing post on how to create one here!) Or things you do before bed that will help you unwind? Now, identify ways that you can add reading to your routine. Adding reading to your routine will make it feel like less of a chore and more of something that you need to either start your day, or end it, even if it’s for 5-10 minutes each day.
Use Audio-books
Alright, 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. It makes reading on the go a BREEZE! Download it and catch up on all your books as you’re driving to or from work.
Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks
Start Small
As I mentioned before, this is all about building a new habit. (Read about habits here.) 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 current reading list here.
Find a Reading Buddy
