How to get back to reading books
Do your remember a time when you found it easy to pick up a book and immerse yourself in the joy of reading. In a busy world with work and parenting responsibilities, many of use lose our way a bit when it comes to this pastime. Check out 4 powerful tips on how to get back to reading books from Payton.
“Prioritizing reading has been a real struggle for me these past couple of years. I don’t know what caused it. I think it’s a mix of my OCD and the never-ending entertainment of the Internet. And like a lot of self-proclaimed bookworms who grew up devouring book after book, after some time, it was overtaken by something different. But I do still retain my love for reading. I’ve just got to remind myself to get off social media every once in a while.
So, I’ve compiled a list of things that I do to help me prioritize reading books, and that give me some of my bookish inspiration back.
Use a timer
This brought back memories of having this bookmark/timer contraption as a kid. But this trick works for everyone (I promise.)
I like to set a timer for short increments of time and just read. No checking my phone, no thinking about other things, absolutely no distractions. After the timer goes off, I either set another one or I finish up reading.
I also recommend setting the timer longer and longer, especially if you’re new to reading for fun, or are just coming out of a reading slump.
Set small goals
Going off tip #1, set small reading goals for yourself. Whether that be reading once a day for a certain amount of time or reading a certain number of books.
Setting small goals helps you to not burn out or feel overwhelmed when it comes to reading.
Get inspiration
Did you know that there are book communities online? I love pulling inspiration from Bookstagrammers and BookTubers. You can find your next great read from them or tips on how to break out of that reading slump.
Also, one of my favorite online book communities is Goodreads. Goodreads is a social media website just for bookworms. You can connect with fellow readers, write book reviews, browse through their digital bookshelves, and even create your own shelves. I love using Goodreads to keep track of what I’ve read and what I want to read next.
Change it up
I don’t know about you, but I always go through ‘phases’ when it comes to reading. I either get way into reading and read all the time, or I don’t read at all.
To combat this, I try to change up the way that I read. Either by switching up the type of book; paperback, Kindle, or Audiobook, or the genre; nonfiction, thriller, poetry, etc. This helps spark motivation and keeps me from getting bored.
So, there you have it, four great tips to help you prioritize reading in your life! Hope these tips help you tackle your ‘To-be read list’ and give you some bookspiration.
I want to hear from you! How do you make sure to prioritize reading? Do you have any tips you’d like to add?”
Author Biography:
Payton is a lifestyle blogger over at intheflux.com where she talks about social issues, mental health, and lifestyle and wellness topics. You can find her on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Photo Credit:
Kate Davis-Holmes
Award-winning writer, blogger, social media consultant and charity campaigner. Social Media Manager for BritMums, the UK's largest parent blogging network Freelance clients include Firefly Communications and Save the Children UK. Works with brands on marketing projects. Examples include Visit Orlando, Give As You Live, Coca-Cola and Kodak. Cambridge Law graduate with many years experience working across three sectors in advice, media relations, events, training and project management. Available for hire at affordable rates.
12 Comments
Sally
I’m trying to get back to reading more. Just going to bed a bit earlier some nights is helping me as I will read if I am in bed earlier.
Jayne SMABL
Fab tips! I have recently got back into reading and absolutely loving it! I keep meaning to try out some audiobooks too. x
Kim Carberry
I used to like reading but now I just don’t have the time. Maybe if I stepped back a bit from social media I might find the time.
Laurie
When I was a teacher, I never had enough time during the school year to read books. Now that I am retired, I read every day. I love it! Great suggestions to get your readers reading!
Sam
I love reading and read every day. Helps with my mental health and in operate it into my routine X #pocolo
chickenruby
I’ve just selected a book to start reading on my flight on Thursday rather than watching a movie on the plane. i have a selection of books here in Dubai and the UK and alternate between chick lit style and crime stories. Thank you for linking up with #pocolo and hope to see you back this week
Catherine @ Story Snug
I read more since I joined Goodreads. Last year I completed my goal of 100 books on December 31st! Now I always have a paperback in my bag and a book on my phone so that if I have to wait anywhere I can read a few pages. It soon adds up to a whole book!
#ReadWithMe
sarahmo3w
I’ve never struggled with reading as it is my favourite thing to do! Even though I like social media, I do tire of it very quickly, whereas I can get completely lost in a book. These are great tips for people who want to get back into reading.
crummymummy1
I’m going through an average of a book a week at the moment owing to the fact I’m so shattered with the pregnancy I’m in bed early every night! I know it will all change soon though… #ThatFridayLinky
mumjd
Good tips. I love reading but yes there are times when I struggle to fit in due to spending too much time on social media. #readwithme
Chantelle Hazelden (@MamaMummyMum)
What an inspiring post, brilliant tips for those who want to read but perhaps don’t feel able to #readwithme
Cheryl TimeToCraft (@CherylInTheUK)
I love reading. I go through phases, but I always take a book with me when I go out, for the waiting around times. #mmbc