Every year, I try to read 100 books or more, but life has a way of throwing in some challenges. Last October, a minor life event (pushing a whole human being out of my own body) derailed my 2023 progress a bit. Despite these instances, I still manage to crush a large volume of books each year, usually between January and December. One of the things that really helps me avoid distractions like endless Twitter doomscrolls or getting sucked into a TikTok binge is to consciously prioritize reading. I tell you How To Read More Books?
It’s not always easy, especially when you have other resolutions for 2024, but I’ve found that with a few small changes, you can beef up your reading habits without giving up your favorite TV shows. And if Netflix subscriptions feel outrageously expensive, consider saving that money for a thriller from the library instead!
The truth is, reading doesn’t always come naturally to everyone. I’m lucky that I love to read and that I’ve always been a pretty fast reader. But I know that not everyone shares this. If you don’t always find time for books, don’t worry! No matter your goal is to increase the number of books you read this year or to be more consistent in your reading habits, these tricks aren’t rocket science. By applying just a few simple adjustments, anyone can enjoy reading more, no matter their speed or schedule.
Tip 1: Get A Library Card
A voracious reading habit. A library card opens up a giant, budget-friendly world of possibilities. With access to a library, you don’t even need to hoof it to your local branch. Many libraries now work with apps like Libby, which let you borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines at the unbeatable price of free ninety-nine. Just sign in, link your account to your library card, and you’ll quickly find yourself with a growing TBR pile that costs absolutely nothing.
Your membership may benefit from a subscription service if you are willing to spend a little extra. You have different options like Kindle Unlimited or Book of the Month that can help you widen your scope as a reader, exposing you to fresh titles and genres over the years. Personally, I’ve found these services invaluable for exploring new interests while complementing the free resources libraries offer.
Tip 2: Open Your Book
Even though it might sound simple, it can be quite challenging to follow through on the idea of sitting down to read. Picture this: you’re cozy in your bed with a new novel, and before you realize it, two hours have vanished—spent scrolling through social media or playing New York Times word games instead of reading as intended. I’ve been there, convincing myself that reaching Genius-level on Spelling Bee is necessary to start my day. But trust me, to truly make progress, I highly recommend putting your phone out of reach and focusing on your book or e-reader instead.
Open the book, commit to just one chapter, and watch as you naturally start reading further. Like Pringles, it’s tough to stop at just one! That little voice inside often tells us we’ll only read “a bit,” but the story pulls us in. So, skip responding to that text from so-and-so and dive into your pages. Create a distraction-free zone by cutting out social media or any tempting games. Whether it’s your favorite York classic or a modern tale, this strategy will help you read more and enjoy every moment.
Tip 3: Schedule A Time Each Day for Reading
Finding time to read doesn’t have to mean carving out a huge chunk of your day. You can start small—just 15 minutes or even 10 can make a difference. For some, a more nebulous time like “right before bed” works well. As a night owl, I do 99.99 percent of my reading in the evening, usually after dinner or an episode of Parks and Rec re-runs. Sometimes, it’s Below Deck or Real Housewives in the mix, but reading helps quiets my brain and spares my eyes from the harsh blasts of blue light before sleeping.
If you’re an early riser or a friend gifted with the ability to wake early and avoid feeling like a disaster, morning tea and reading might be your routine. Others prefer the afternoon lunch hour or even the 40 minutes spent checking emails during a commute. And don’t forget, if you drive, audiobooks totally count FYI! Repetition is key here—it’s one of the easiest ways to cement a new habit and make reading second nature.
Tip 4: Bring a Book Wherever You Go
Carrying a tote bag isn’t just about fashion. It’s a smart strategy for squeezing more reading into your day. Whether you’re waiting for a delayed train on the subway platform or stuck in a slow-moving line at the pharmacy, those small gaps of time can add up to chapters finished. Personally, I’ve turned these seemingly dead spots into mini reading sessions, and it’s been a game changer. With a book always in my bag, I never feel like time is wasted, even when I’m juggling newborn care and snatching quick naps in between.
If carrying a physical book feels too much, your e-reader or Kindle is the perfect alternative. I use the accompanying app on my phone, which automatically syncs to my device. Forgetting my book at home isn’t an issue anymore. Because I can just pick up where I left off digitally. To quote Stephen King, “Books are the perfect entertainment: no commercials, no batteries, and hours of enjoyment for every dollar spent.” Those words resonate deeply and remind me that small efforts can make reading a seamless part of life.
Tip 5: Seek Out Books That Engage You
If you’re trying to read more books this year, the best way to start is by picking genres and stories you truly enjoy. Whether it’s romance or gripping spy novels that bring out your inner James Bond, choose what excites you. For those who love fantasy, why not take an immersive journey to a place like Basgiath? Diving into stories that capture your interest can prevent the dread of tackling slow-moving or overly complex literary fiction that might stall your momentum.
Even the fluffy tales your mom recommended can spark joy when read at the right time, especially if they lighten the mood after a busy day.
Personally, I’ve found keeping a book I’m genuinely excited about on my nightstand makes me more likely to reach for it. It’s no surprise platforms like booktok and smuttok have created a phenomenon of discovering how fun reading can be. Many people who once dreaded assigned books in high school now embrace this habit, realizing it doesn’t have to be a chore.
It’s about adopting an ethos that life is too short to stick with books you don’t enjoy. While I typically push through even when I’m not initially vibing with a story, I’ve experienced many instances where a book I wasn’t liking ended up morphing into something truly incredible by the end.
Tip6: Keep Yourself Accountable With Something. I’d Prefer Something Fun.
One of the best ways to stay consistent with reading is to make it social and organized. Create a book-focused space, like a dedicated Instagram account or bookstagram, to share updates about your reading goals and connect with others. Joining a book club, either IRL or in a virtual setting like Zoom, makes discussions engaging and keeps you accountable. Another great idea is to try a buddy read with a friend, turning reading into a shared experience.
For tracking progress, platforms like Goodreads or StoryGraph can help you log each book you finish and stay on top of your yearly goal. Subscriptions like the Book of the Month Club can be an exciting addition, offering curated options for your birthday, a holiday, or just every month to keep your shelves fresh with new reads. Choose a method that genuinely motivates you to dive into more chapters and keep you excited and interested throughout the year.
Key Points:
- Create a book-focused space like Instagram or bookstagram.
- Join a book club (IRL or virtual) or try a buddy read with a friend.
- Use tools like Goodreads or StoryGraph to track your reading goals.
- Subscribe to the Book of the Month Club for fresh books every month.
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