“Read more” is one of the top goals people set for themselves, and it’s a great goal to have. Reading consistently can teach you things that will broaden your world views, help you cultivate a healthy imagination, and be an extremely satisfying habit.
If reading is a habit you would like to get into, there are plenty of ways to develop it. Reading is a lot of fun if you have a good book. If you have a boring book, one that you’re forcing yourself to get through, reading will feel like a chore. So, before you try anything else on this list to cultivate good reading habits, make sure you have a book that you find interesting and enjoy.
- Set Time Goals
If you want to begin reading consistently every day, you need to set aside time do so. Set a goal for yourself every day – it doesn’t matter if it’s for five minutes or 40, it just needs to be achievable for you. Set these goals during moments you know you can accomplish them. Try reading during breakfast, over your lunch break, or before you go to bed at night. This is a great way to cultivate a daily reading habit. - Make a List
Keep a list – or a journal, whatever works for you – of all the books you want to read. Add to it whenever you hear about a book you know you would love to get your hands on and cross books off the list once you have read them. Trying to work your way through a list will motivate you to read daily so you can consistently progress and get to the next great book. - Visit Used Book Stores
Reading doesn’t have to be an expensive habit. Visiting a used book store is great for getting your hands on dozens of excellent books for next to nothing. Make sure you always have plenty of reading material around to feed your daily reading habits. Get a library card too; they’re even cheaper than the used book store! - Join a Book Club
Speaking of libraries and used bookstores, a lot of them are often in the loop regarding local book clubs you can join (including their own most of the time). Joining a book club will supply you with a monthly book to read with peers that will hold you accountable to complete daily readings so that you may participate in weekly discussions. This is probably the most fun way to develop daily reading habits and highly recommended. - Make it Fun
Make your reading time pleasurable. Treat yourself to a nice cup of coffee during your daily readings, or snuggle up with your favorite blanket in your favorite chair. Go somewhere you feel comfortable and relaxed and get lost in your book.
Do you have any advice for cultivating consistent reading habits?
