🌍 The Big Picture: Why Read More?
☀️ Sol Bites: 9 Simple Tips to Read More
🦉 Words of Wisdom
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This week I asked a friend if she had read my book. She casually told me that she doesn’t read—like, ever. I was totally surprised because my friend is smart, well-spoken, and can chime into any kind of conversation. It made me feel sad that she doesn’t make the time for books, but then I realized that it’s just not a habit and doesn’t fit into what she values right now.
Establishing a reading routine can be as intimidating as beginning an exercise routine. It's easy to begin with enthusiasm and vigor, but then we find ourselves with stacks of undisturbed books or expensive gym membership a week later.
The Big Picture: Why Read More?
Reading books remains one of the best strategies for personal development. Every book you read will improve your knowledge, give you ideas, and even make you more open to try new things.
Here are some simple tips to get into the habit of reading more.
Sol Bites: 9 Simple Tips to Read More
1. Always Have a Book Within Reach
You can’t read what isn’t there. If you have to go looking for a book, you'll probably just check your phone instead.
- On your phone: Download an e-reader app and make it visible on your home screen.
- In your bag: Always carry one paperback or an e-reader.
2. Mix Your Media (Audio, Digital, Paper)
Don’t limit yourself to only physical books. Make use of different formats for different parts of your day:
- Audiobooks come in handy when you’re doing chores, driving, or simply walking.
- Read an e-book when you’re waiting in lines or taking quick breaks.
- Paper books are great when you have more focused time at home or on vacation.
3. Allow Yourself to Quit
If you find a book dull, just quit it. The worst thing you can do is make yourself finish a book you don’t like. It’s also the quickest way to find yourself not reading anymore.
4. Replace Social Media with Reading
A lot of us start scrolling through social media feeds because we’re bored. You'll achieve so much more in those moments if you use that energy to read a book rather than post or lurk.
5. Build a “Before Bed” Routine
Try reading a physical copy of a book for at least 15 minutes every night before bed. This will not only help you achieve your reading targets, but it will also ensure better sleep since you won’t be staring at a bright screen or electronic device.
6. Create an “Anti-library”
Keep a list of books you haven’t read yet but are excited about (or better yet, have physical copies on a shelf). Seeing a stack of interesting possibilities can create a pull that will keep you motivated to finish your current book and start the next.
7. Start a “Reading Project”
Instead of selecting random books, choose an area you might be interested in, such as history, cooking, or psychology. Reading several books on a subject creates deeper knowledge than reading one book in isolation, and it will keep your interest-level higher.
8. Share What You Learn
Talking about books makes them “stick.” Join a book club, text a friend a cool fact you just learned, or post a brief thought online. When reading becomes social, it becomes a habit you want to keep.
9. Take on the Identity of a “Reader”
You’ll notice a dramatic shift in this habit when you move from the realm of “trying to read” into the world of being “a reader.” A reader is nothing more than a curious person with a fondness for books. When you make that transition, the behavior falls right into place.
The development of a habit does not involve issues of “speed” or the pursuit of excellence. It is about taking small steps in the right direction—like replacing the phone in your hand with a book. It doesn't even matter if you choose “serious” reads or things that are light and fun. Either way, you're laying the groundwork for a great habit.
How to stop eating your feelings and start actually feeling them. (as annoying as that sounds)
Words of Wisdom
I read for pleasure and that is the moment I learn the most.
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