Simple Tips to Start Reading

Reading is a popular New Year’s resolution for good reason – it’s enjoyable and offers proven benefits for both mind and body. Yet many struggle to make it a habit, often because of mindset or picking the wrong book. 

In this post, we share 14 simple tips to help you cultivate a reading habit that’s fun, sustainable, and suited to your tastes.

Make It A Relaxing Activity

Settle into your favorite chair with a blanket and a cup of coffee or tea. Read after finishing your daily tasks. Over time, your brain will start seeing it as a reward, and you’ll look forward to your reading time – even if it’s just for some peace and quiet.

Read The Right Books

Pick topics you know you’ll like. The more you read, the better you’ll understand your preferences. If a thriller doesn’t click, don’t assume all books are the same – try another genre or author. You wouldn’t expect to love every movie you watch, right?

Intentionally Schedule Reading Time

Schedule even just 30 minutes a day. The average American watches over 2½ hours of TV daily – so you likely have the time! If these successful people can fit it in, we “normal” folks should be able to too.

Start Small

Do yourself a favor and don’t kick off your reading habit with War and Peace. Set an easy goal, like 15 pages a day.

Eliminate Distractions 

Give yourself time to get into a book before deciding if you like it. Put away your electronics – it’s only 15 pages, come on!

Read On Your Most Convenient Media 

Make reading as easy as possible. Books are available on phones, Kindles, audio, or paperback – read on your phone during lunch break, for example.

Only Read Books You Really Love

This is the secret skill of a real reader: You don’t have to finish every book. Forcing yourself through one you don’t enjoy can make reading feel like a chore and slow you down – why waste time on something that doesn’t motivate you?

Get A Partner To Read With You

Activities feel easier with company. Even without accountability, knowing someone you admire reads can inspire you. Bonus points if you read the same books and discuss them together!

Use Extra Time

There are tiny pockets of free time every day, even if you don’t notice them. Read while waiting for your kids at practice or during the last 15 minutes of your lunch break.

Replace Other Entertainment With A Book

I bet you already spend time on entertainment – choose to read instead of watching TV or scrolling social media.

Keep A Log 

Seeing your progress motivates you to read more. At minimum, list the title and author, or add details like the date finished, a star rating, and notes.

Hack Your Environment

Set yourself up for success by making reading easier and distractions harder. For example, place books next to your favorite chair and unplug the TV.

Have A Designated Spot To Read 

Your designated spot can become a mental sanctuary for peace and focus. Avoid reading in bed or places associated with sleep – your brain will start to shut down, making it harder to concentrate. Or, like me, you will keep reading and not go to sleep!

Read The Book Version Of Your Favorite Movie / TV Show

Some people avoid knowing what happens, but if you already like the characters and story, knowing a bit ahead can actually make the experience more enjoyable!