One of the most frequent questions is, “How do you read so many books?” Despite having a busy schedule working from home while juggling young kids, I still find time to read. I sometimes ask myself this question too. I don’t have large amounts of unstructured time. I don’t stay up late reading, and I hardly ever get to spend my weekends lounging in bed with a good book (that sounds delightful!). To get through all the books I want, I have to read in tiny increments throughout the day; every moment counts. It’s not my ideal way to read, but it’s what I have to work with during this phase of my life. The alternative is not reading, and that isn’t something I consider.
I’m also hesitant to write this post because I don’t think reading a lot of books is important — reading one book a year is an accomplishment if you’re not a big reader. I don’t like making reading a competition or something to show off, but if you have a long TBR list, having tips and tricks to help you dig through that stack can be helpful. Here’s what works for me.
Read What You Like
This is the most important tip I have for reading more: read books you like! As much as I want to advise you to read a wide variety of books (that’s what I like to do), the best way to create a reading habit is to read books that bring you joy. It’s going to be hard to read more books this year if you’re stuck in the middle of a book you want to throw against the wall. If you’re not enjoying a book, don’t finish it. I struggle with abandoning a book, but honestly, life is too short to read a bunch of books you hate. That said, I like to read at least 100 pages of a book (if it’s a longer book) before I give up. If it’s still not grabbing me, I move on.
Include Audiobooks
People can be snobby when it comes to reading. Some people don’t think audiobooks count toward your reading goal. I’m not one of those people. I agree that reading a book offers different cognitive benefits than listening to an audiobook, but if your goal is to read more books and you’re short on time, audiobooks are great! I can listen to an audiobook while doing the dishes, folding laundry, on a walk — it’s amazing. I pick books that don’t require as much concentration. Sometimes, if I have a big book I’m eager to get through, I will read it and listen to the audiobook. I will pick up where I left reading with audio if I know I’m going to have a hectic day. These little hacks help me plow through my TBR list.
Create a Reading Routine
Creating a reading routine is a great way to form a solid reading habit. Everyone’s routine will look different. Pick a routine that works for your schedule and preferences. I aim to read for 20 minutes in the morning while I’m drinking coffee. Then I carry my book with me everywhere — which seems like an annoyance, but I love having it near me for spontaneous reading moments. Then I read for an hour before bed. It doesn’t always work out this way, but I try to stick to this routine whenever possible.
Read Multiple Books at Once
This seems counterintuitive, but for me, it works. I get bored easily. I wouldn’t say I have a short attention span, but I’m moody with my literature. If I’m reading something that isn’t jiving with the mood I’m in that day, I find it laborious. I like to read 1 non-fiction along with 1-2 fiction books simultaneously. That way, if something feels a little slow for me that day, I have other options. Some may argue this slows me down, but I don’t care; it helps me enjoy my reading routine.
These steps are simple and easy once you get the hang of it. The more you read, the quicker you’ll be at reading, too. I’ve fallen back in love with reading books these past few years. It’s been a huge comfort and inspiration for me during challenging times.
