Want to get back to reading books? here are a few tips

If you want to make a habit of reading books, here are some tips that will help you make this activity part of your lifestyle. For example, pick a book that interests you and set up dedicated reading times throughout the day.

Taking the time to savor the written word is not always easy. Especially after a long day at work. Here are some simple tips to make sure you open and devour the book you just bought.

Change your habits

To successfully read more, there really is no secret. You need to make reading a priority in your daily life. This activity must find its place in your day between your different activities, even if it means giving up certain things. Just answer this question: “I want to know more, how can I find the time?” If your answer is something like, “I can’t because I have this or that activity,” then reading is not your priority. On the other hand, if you are ready to modify, move or cancel “this or that activity”, then you are already on the right track.

According to a study by University College London (UCL), it takes an average of 66 days to learn a new routine. In fact, the more important your reading habit is to you, the easier it will be to make it part of your routine. If you start from scratch, the path can be more difficult, but not overwhelming.

Close the books that don’t interest you

“You absolutely must read this book” or “Haven’t you read this book?” This is a must! “These types of statements come up in social circles regarding any kind of cultural work and should be put aside for now. To resume reading, there is nothing more important than reading the books that you really like. If you like fantasy, read this kind of fiction. If you are attracted to self-help books, go for it. Do not try to read again with so-called classic books or must-haves that you will have to put enormous effort into. If you find that you don’t like one book, allow yourself to close it and open another. At best, you will come back one day happy to read it, at the “worst”, it will serve as a decoration in your library and you can proudly consider yourself as tsundoku sensei.

Favor short reading periods

The global pandemic has resulted in higher levels of stress and anxiety for many, which can lead to a lack of concentration, which is necessary to read a book. Therefore, don’t start reading an 800-page tome in one afternoon. Take 15 to 20 minutes to fully devote yourself to the activity. If you use public transportation, for example, the commute to and from work may be a good chunk of the time spent there. It is also a way to make it easier to introduce reading into your new daily routine.

(Main and featured image: Joel Muniz / Unsplash)

This story first appeared in AFP Relaxnews.