From social media to streaming services to online shopping, there’s no shortage of mindless distractions in today’s tech-centric age. While having access to endless varieties of digital content at your fingertips certainly has its advantages, there are many disadvantages, too—such as less and less time spent with a good old fashioned book.
If you used to be an avid reader and have gotten off course due to digital distractions, or if you’re trying to help your children cultivate a reading habit, there are several strategies you can deploy to get back on track. Commit to reengage with the wonderful world of books by trying one or two of the following tips:
Find the right book. Choosing to read a book over the myriad other things you can or have to do in a given day can be a tall order. That’s why it’s important not to overlook the obvious: find a book you really want to read. Think about your favorite genre—sci-fi, romance, history—then go online and research the current best sellers or all-time favorites within that theme. This will help you find a book that you won’t want to put down, so choosing reading over Wordle will be a no-brainer.
Create the right space. One of the joys of reading is the act of literally curling up with a good book. So put some thought into setting the stage and create a nook that’s just for reading. Choose a room without a T.V. if you can, make sure there is an extremely comfortable chair or sofa to settle into, then add the right lighting—something bright enough to help you see, but warm enough to add a little atmosphere. A pillow and throw blanket are also musts, along with a spot to rest a cup of tea or snack to munch on.
Dedicate a time. Everyone is just so busy these days, it can feel truly impossible to find the time to read a book. That’s why it’s important to create a designated time to read a few pages a day, whether it be first thing in the morning as you enjoy a cup of coffee, during your lunch break or at the end of the day when you climb into bed. Treat reading the same as other daily habits, such as exercise or cleaning up after dinner.
Make it accessible. You know all those times throughout the day when you grab your phone to scroll Instagram or browse Amazon? You could be reading a book instead. To make this happen, be sure to always have a book in your car or bag so that when you find yourself waiting at the doctor’s office or delayed at the airport, you can use the time for reading.
Dive deeper. Turn your reading habit into a beloved hobby, by taking things a step further. Join a book club or online discussion group to talk about the book you’re reading in order to better understand its characters, plot and meaning. Or try keeping a book journal to jot down your favorite passages, words or phrases you appreciate, or your general thoughts on the story and what it meant to you. All of these ideas will enrich the experience of reading, and help it become a favorite, life-long pastime.
