How to Read More Books This Year

So it’s the top of the New Year, and one of your goals is to “Read more books this year.”

Great! Welcome! You are gung ho, you start off strong but then… life gets in the way. Work, family, social commitments – it’s easy to let reading slip down the priority list because there is always so much to do and so little time to do it.

But all is not lost! Keep reading for 5 tips to help you read more books this year.

1. Make Reading a Habit

The main reason people fall off, is because they don’t make reading a part of their routine. Basically, they don’t make time for it. Here are a few ways to help:

• Schedule it in: Treat reading time like any other important appointment. Block off 15-30 minutes each day. I always block off 15-30 minutes before bed. Just me and my kindle or a physical copy of a book.
• Find your reading time: You can read during your commute, your lunch break, waiting for your kids while they are at soccer practice. Find those pockets of time and dedicate them to reading.
• Create a reading nook: This is the best, and something I am personally working on this year for myself: Find a comfortable spot in your home where you can escape and enjoy a good book.

2. Choose the Right Books

If you know you don’t love fantasy, then please don’t pick that popular fantasy book that everyone is talking about. If you loathe non-fiction, then that book about the Civil War isn’t for you. Instead, read what you love. Even if that means you read nothing but smutty romance novels for the entire year…THEN READ NOTHING BUT SMUTTY ROMANCE. And…

• Don’t be afraid to DNF (Did Not Finish): If a book isn’t grabbing you, it’s okay to put it down and come back later, or never come back to it. Life’s too short to force yourself through something you’re not enjoying.
• Explore different genres: Even though i said don’t read something you know you won’t like, sometimes, it helps to branch out beyond your usual comfort zone. You might discover a new favorite author or genre.
• Join a book club: Not only do bookclubs offer books you might not think to read, but Book clubs provide motivation, accountability, and interesting discussions. AND you get to hang out with like minded friends

You can still join the Pouring Over Book Club! We read a new book every month and you can join for a year or just for the month!

3. Carry a Book Everywhere

Carrying a book with you everywhere can make sure you always have access to a book. Instead of scrolling on social media while waiting in the dr’s office or riding the train to work, you can read. And this doesn’t mean you have to have a physical book with you. A Kindle that fits into your purse is perfect and so is any reading app on your phone.

4. Listen To Audiobooks

Audiobooks are perfect for multitasking (like commuting or housework). I hated the idea of Audible at first, just like I hated the idea of reading books on my Kindle. But having an audible membership and a LibroFM membership has really helped me “read” more books. I listen in the car, when I  clean , while taking a bath, and while working out. 

5. Get a Library Card.

BOOKS ARE EXPENSIVE. Now I own a TON of books. But I also use my FREE library card.  I always have books on hold or books coming in. It’s FREE. And if I don’t like the book I don’t feel like I’ve wasted my money on the book! 

Remember friends, Reading more books is a journey, not a race. Be patient with yourself, experiment with different approaches, and most importantly, enjoy the process!

Do you have any other tips for reading more? Share them in the comments below!