In our fast-paced world, where distractions are endless and time is always in short supply, finding time to read can be a challenge. Yet, developing and maintaining a reading habit is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in yourself. Reading not only expands your knowledge and vocabulary but also enhances your empathy, sharpens your mind, and provides a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life.

My own reading habit has been transformational. I’ve read over 120 books per year for the last two years, and I’m on pace to crush that number this year. Reading is a joy and a much-needed escape for me. 

Whether you’re trying to rekindle a love for reading or build a new habit from scratch, this blog post will offer practical tips to help you incorporate more reading into your life. We’ll also explore the benefits of audiobooks as a valuable and versatile reading modality, perfect for those who are always on the go.

Strategies for Developing a Reading Habit

Start Small and Be Consistent

One of the biggest obstacles to developing a reading habit is the perception that you need to read for hours at a time to make it worthwhile. In reality, it’s better to start small and focus on consistency. Even if you only read for 10-15 minutes a day, those minutes add up over time. The key is to make reading a daily habit, just like brushing your teeth or having your morning coffee.

Set a specific time each day for reading, whether it’s in the morning, during your lunch break, or before bed. By consistently dedicating a few minutes to reading each day, you’ll gradually build the habit and find yourself reading more often and for longer periods.

Choose Books That Interest You

Reading should be enjoyable, not a chore. One of the best ways to maintain a reading habit is to choose books that genuinely interest you. If you’re passionate about a particular subject, find books that delve into that topic. If you enjoy fiction, explore different genres—mystery, fantasy, romance—until you find what resonates with you.

Personally, I enjoy reading classic literature, biographies, memoirs, science, history, business and personal development. 

Don’t feel pressured to read what everyone else is reading or to finish a book that doesn’t captivate you. Give yourself permission to put down a book if it’s not holding your attention and move on to something else. The goal is to make reading a pleasurable activity that you look forward to, not a task you have to check off your list.

Create a Reading-Friendly Environment

Your environment plays a significant role in your ability to focus and enjoy reading. Create a comfortable, quiet space where you can read without distractions. This could be a cozy corner of your living room, a spot by the window, or a dedicated reading chair. Keep your favorite books within easy reach, and consider adding elements that enhance the ambiance, such as soft lighting or a warm blanket.

If you live in a noisy or busy household, noise-canceling headphones or soft background music can help create a more peaceful reading environment. By making your reading space inviting, you’ll be more likely to spend time there with a good book.

Set Reading Goals

Setting reading goals can help motivate you to read more consistently. Your goals can be as simple or ambitious as you like—whether it’s reading one book a month, finishing a certain number of pages each day, or exploring a new genre. Tracking your progress can be motivating and give you a sense of accomplishment as you complete each book.

Consider using a reading app or journal to log the books you’ve read, track your goals, and jot down your thoughts on each book. Some people find it helpful to join a reading challenge or book club, where they can set goals alongside others and discuss their progress.

Integrate Reading into Your Daily Routine

One of the easiest ways to build a reading habit is to integrate it into your daily routine. Find pockets of time throughout your day where you can fit in a few pages—during your commute, while waiting in line, or during your lunch break. Carry a book or e-reader with you so you’re always prepared to read when you have a spare moment.

You can also pair reading with existing habits. For example, if you enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, use that time to read a few pages. If you wind down before bed, make reading a part of your nighttime routine. By linking reading to other daily activities, it becomes a natural and seamless part of your life.

Embracing Audiobooks as a Reading Modality

In addition to traditional reading, audiobooks offer a flexible and accessible way to enjoy books, especially for those with busy schedules. Audiobooks allow you to “read” while doing other tasks, such as driving, exercising, or doing household chores. This makes them an excellent option for multitasking and maximizing your reading time.

Benefits of Audiobooks:

• Accessibility: Audiobooks are ideal for people who have difficulty reading printed text, such as those with visual impairments or dyslexia. They also make reading more accessible for people who are constantly on the move.
• Multitasking: With audiobooks, you can enjoy a book while cooking, cleaning, or commuting. This allows you to incorporate more reading into your day without needing to carve out additional time.
• Enhanced Experience: Professional narrators often bring characters and stories to life in a way that can enhance your experience of the book. Some audiobooks also include music or sound effects, adding another layer of immersion.

How to Get Started with Audiobooks:

• Choose a Platform: There are several platforms where you can find audiobooks, such as Audible, Libby (linked to your local library, my favorite), Apple Books, and Google Play Books. Many of these platforms offer free trials or library lending options.
• Experiment with Genres: Just like with traditional books, explore different genres to find what you enjoy listening to. Some people prefer nonfiction audiobooks, while others enjoy fiction or self-help. Be curious and try something unconventional- you may just love it!
• Adjust the Speed: Most audiobook apps allow you to adjust the playback speed. If you find the narration too slow or too fast, experiment with the settings until you find a pace that suits you. I listen at 2.5x speed. I chose this speed after experimenting and I love it- it allows me to finish books quickly, and my brain has adjusted to the speed. Regular speed feels ridiculously slow to me.

You Are What You Read

Developing and maintaining a reading habit is one of the most enriching practices you can cultivate. Whether you’re reading printed books, e-books, or listening to audiobooks, the key is to find what works best for you and make it a regular part of your life. By starting small, choosing books that excite you, and integrating reading into your daily routine, you can build a lifelong habit that nourishes your mind, expands your knowledge, and brings you joy.

Remember, the goal is not to rush through as many books as possible, but to enjoy the journey of reading itself. So, pick up a book—or an audiobook—today, and let the adventure begin.