Reading Time: 3 minutes

Remember those days in middle school when you could curl up with a 500-page book and pound it out in about three days? Where did that brain go? 

You get so busy with life things, and dare I say “adulting” things (I know, I cringed writing that too), that at some point it’s easy to step back and realize that you’re not much of a reader anymore. 

So, how does one get back into reading? I’ve outlined a few tips that might help you on your journey.

Set a goal. 

This one is for all those out there who thrived under star chart systems as kids (guilty as charged). Maybe you want to read a certain number of books in a month, or you want to catch up on all the classics you never got around to reading. Having a goal, however small it might be, will give you something to work towards and help keep you motivated while getting back into reading.

Make time for reading. 

If you’re a fan of designated “me time” during which everyone knows not to bother you, this one might work best. It’s easy to get caught up in our busy lives and put reading on the back burner. But if you’re looking to get back into reading, it’s important to carve out time specifically for reading. Maybe it’s before bed (my preferred time), on your lunch break, or on the weekends. Find a time that works for you and stick to it.

Find books that interest you. 

Don’t convince yourself to read so-called “grown up” or “more mature” books if they’re boring as hell. If a middle grade or young adult gets you flying down each page – so be it! Find a genre you like and don’t think too hard about it. If you’re struggling to get back into reading, it may be because you’re not reading material that holds your attention. Try different genres, authors, or formats (such as audiobooks or eBooks) until you find something you enjoy.

Start with shorter books. 

If commitment isn’t your strong suit, try this. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of committing to a long novel, try starting with shorter books or even just a few chapters at a time. This can help build your confidence and get you back into the reading habit.

Join a book club. 

For all my extroverts and lonely introverts out there, make book friends. Surrounding yourself with other people (in person or online) who love reading can be a great way to stay motivated and accountable. A book club can provide a sense of community and give you the opportunity to discuss what you’ve read with others.

Use reading apps or websites. 

From Goodreads and Storygraph to good old Bookstagram (the bookish side of Instagram), find a place to plug in online. There are a ton of apps and websites out there that can help make reading more convenient and enjoyable. Some even offer personalized recommendations based on your interests. (If you join BookTok or Bookstagram – prepare to see a lot of Sarah J. Maas, Colleen Hoover, and Taylor Jenkins Reid recs pop into your timeline).

Take breaks. 

Rest is productive. It’s okay to take breaks while reading. In fact, it can be helpful to take a break after every chapter or so to process what you’ve just read. Just be sure to pick up where you left off so you don’t lose your momentum.

Don’t worry about finishing every book. 

If you’re not vibing, DNF (do not finish) that hoe and move on. It’s okay if you don’t finish every book you start. It’s more important to find books that you enjoy and that keep you engaged, rather than forcing yourself to finish something you’re not enjoying. 

With these tips, you can give yourself a boost as you journey back into the wonderful world of books. Happy reading, friends!

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