In this day and age of modern technology, people regard reading books as quite a chore—sadly, even to the former biggest bookworms we know. We already regard starting to read a book as an activity that will take much of our time which makes most of us quit even before starting. Yes, book sales are still a hit but most of the books we hoard end up dusted and unread at a corner at home.
People have developed shorter attention spans throughout the years. Even thinking of reading more than 200 pages is already overwhelming for most of us.
But if you want to bring back the reading habit, here are a few tips on how you could do just that.
1. Read something every day, even for just five minutes.
Actions become habits when you repeat an activity every single day for a certain period of time. For this to work, other elements must not be factored in. You should read at least five minutes a day even though you’re not in the mood, you’re low on motivation or you’re loaded with work. You will just have a streak if you don’t break the chain and do it at least once a day, making the act second nature to you.
Yes, we know this is easier said than done. But even though it seems impossible to commit to, for now, you can help yourself push through with it by investing in gear. Cement your commitment by using a standing desk that will allow you to stay upright while focusing on reading your book. The Kana Bamboo Standing Desk is an excellent option. At CA$449.99, it boasts an elegant bamboo surface that uses lateral compression technology for the bamboo strip so as not to lose its enticing natural grain. It may come with a basic keypad or an advanced all-in-one keypad. If what you need are just up and down buttons, then the basic option is much easier and straightforward to use. If you want more convenience, the advanced all-in-one keypad comes with three programmable presets that save three of your favorite heights. The height range is from 23.6” to 49.2” which works for people whose height is from 5’4 to 7.
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2. Log off social media.
When you pick up a book to read, your primary goal is to read the book. Anything else is noise or distraction. Shut down social media accounts or better yet, put your phone somewhere where you can’t reach it. You’ll only have a fully immersive experience if you focus on the book itself and do not allow your mind to wander to Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or wherever. It’s so much easier to not be distracted if you’re reading a book that is of your interest to you. But it’s not to say that you shouldn’t give a book a chance. If you still don’t like it after 10 days, consider that it’s time to move on and find another one worth your time and energy.
3. Track the books you read in a book journal.
We don’t really remember every single book that we’ve allowed into our lives. The solution to that is to record. You’ll be able to keep track of your reading journey by recording the date you started reading the book and the date you finished it. Each time you complete a read on your list, scratch it and tap yourself on the shoulder for a job well done. If you’re feeling extra, why don’t write mini-reviews or diary entries about the books that you’ve read? Trust us, you will never forget how it made you feel.
4. Have a quiet reading area at home.
If you don’t live in the right conditions to make reading accessible and fun, then make the conditions work instead. Pick a corner at home that is far away from the television or your computer screen. Use a noise-canceling earpiece to filter the noise out of your environment. Set up good lighting so that your senses will wake up while you’re reading.
5. Read to your parent, a household mate, your kid, or your pet.
Use your living situation or your social circle to your advantage when it comes to rekindling a love for reading. Reading out loud may bring back the habit into your life. You may even have more fun with it, changing the tone of your voice, imitating other people, or reading with emotions and energy.
6. Have your books on display.
Don’t let the books you’ve bought in the past to be out of sight, out of mind. When you display your books, it sort of becomes a daily reminder to grab something and read. You may use a bookshelf or floating shelves to display your books or pick up something for reading.
7. Carry a book anywhere you go.
If you’re serious about bringing back reading in your life, every free time in your schedule should be a window of opportunity. Instead of picking up your phone and just getting caught up in social media, grab a book and read it. It could be during your 20-minute commute or when you’re lining up for your morning coffee. It’s so easy to grab a book from your bag so stop making excuses to go online again.
8. Take part in a book circle.
If you’re having trouble reading alone, reading as part of a circle may help ignite your love for it. The rules are simple. You’ll be assigned a book to read and discuss with each other after a designated reading period. Because of this commitment, you’ll probably be embarrassed if you don’t read the assigned book.
Final Thoughts
The ultimate secret to rediscovering your love for reading at any age is to just do it! Drop all the excuses, pick up that book and start reading.
