Building Reading Habit in 6 Simple Steps!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, where distractions abound and attention spans are shrinking, cultivating a consistent reading habit has become more important than ever. Reading not only expands your knowledge and vocabulary but also enhances your critical thinking skills and imagination. However, in a world dominated by social media, streaming platforms, and constant notifications, how can one develop and sustain a reading habit? Here are 6 simple steps to help you build a reading habit that enriches your life and mind.

Step 1 : Set a goal.

How many books do you want to read in a month? A year? Determine why you want to read – whether it’s for personal growth, entertainment, or learning new skills. Set specific targets, such as reading a certain number of pages or books per week. Once you know your goal, you can start to break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.

Step 2 : Find a time that works for you. 

Some people like to read in the morning, before the day gets too busy. Others prefer to read at night, before bed. Experiment until you find a time that you can consistently set aside for reading.

Step 3 : Find books that you enjoy.

If you’re not enjoying a book, you’re less likely to stick with it. So take some time to explore different genres and authors until you find books that you love.

Step 4 : Start small.

Don’t overwhelm yourself by attempting to read lengthy novels right from the start. Begin with shorter books, essays, or articles. You could also opt for anthologies or short story collections. Gradually increase the complexity and length of your reading materials as your habit solidifies. Also, read for a small amount of time like 20 – 30 mins initially and gradually increase your reading time. The key here is to not overwhelm yourself with anything when you are just starting to build a reading habit.

Step 5 : Turn off distractions.

As we are in the process of building a reading habit, it is easy to be distracted and switch over to other tasks like scrolling your phone, watching social media etc. Therefore, it is important to keep away anything that distracts you when you sit down to read especially your phone.

Step 6 : Don’t be afraid to take breaks.

If you get stuck on a book, don’t force yourself to finish it. Put it down for a while and come back to it later.

Additionally,

1. You can join a Book Club. Book clubs are a great way to meet other readers, discuss books, and get motivated to read more.
2. You can keep a reading journal to track your progress and jot down your thoughts about the books you read. Note your favorite quotes, characters, and plot points. This practice not only helps you retain information but also adds a reflective dimension to your reading experience.
3. When you reach a reading goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
4. Don’t give up. Building a reading habit takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. Reading is a rewarding activity that can enrich your life in many ways. So start reading today!

Remember, like any habit, developing the reading habit requires patience, dedication, and a genuine love for the written word. So, pick up a book, find your cozy reading nook, and embark on a journey of discovery, imagination, and growth. What are you waiting for? Start reading today!