Hands up who made a New Year’s resolution to read more and reconnect with that inquisitive bookworm (probably want to see a doctor about that) who lives inside of you? Ok, now, hands up who actually kept to that promise? Yep, though it’s not yet February, we still see a lot of hands. Incidentally, none of them are holding books…
Don’t worry; there’s still time. Reading (books, although the place is pretty nice, too) represents a wonderful escape from life’s endless churn, is a great way to learn new things and tickle your imagination, and perhaps most importantly, it represents some much needed time away from the insidious blue screens which now dominate our everyday. And yes, we do realise you’re reading this on a screen, but the point remains.
How To Reignite Your Passion For The Page
So, give the gift of self care today, and allow yourself to once again get lost in the joy of reading. If it’s been a while and you want to take the plunge back into the page, then read on; here’s 9 smart, simple ways to help you get back into reading today.
Sign Up For A Book Subscription
You may already be signed up to some form of subscription service, as they have become incredibly proliferant in recent years. Netflix? Check. Calm? Check. Chess With Friends? Check mate.
Indeed, there are subscriptions available for almost everything these days, and you’ll be happy to hear that books are now included in this prevalent model. If you don’t have time to visit a bookstore or simply aren’t sure where to start, signing up for a book subscription could help you find inspiration.
Packages from major players, like those offered by Kindle Unlimited and Apple Books, are a good place to start, or better still, bespoke service providers like Heady Mix or The Willoughby Bookclub offer a more curated package, giving subscribers books that are written by authors from underrepresented and diverse backgrounds. Now that sounds like our kind of thing.
Connect With Online Reading Communities
The internet has made it easier than ever to join book discussions and meet fellow readers from around the globe. Online book clubs and reading forums such as Goodreads or The Reading Room offer a space to share your thoughts, gain recommendations, and discuss your favourite reads. Participating in these virtual communities can provide a sense of belonging and accountability, encouraging you to keep turning the pages.
Switch Off
Yep, we realise the irony of encouraging you to ‘switch off’ immediately after extoling the beauty of online book communities, but let’s be frank here; the best way to get into a good book is by removing distractions. And the biggest distraction today, as we’re sure you know, is the pull of Insta, Twitter et al, via your screen.
To truly get engrossed in a book, it’s time to turn off and log out. Switch off your phone or leave it in another room when you settle down with a book for the best, most engrossing results. The last thing you need is being taken out of the story thanks to notifications and vibrations which don’t matter a jot to your day. Unplug and go back to basics – you’ll feel strangely refreshed after doing so.
Read: 12 digital detox tips for 2024 that actually work
Choose Books You Genuinely Get Joy From Reading
It’s always good to try and expand your horizons and read books that you might not usually go for, about esoteric subjects which you can recycle at dinner parties to sound smart. But that’s not the point here, right? We’re talking about self indulgence and self care, so if you’re trying to get back into reading, choosing genres or authors that you know you enjoy is probably the best place to start. A reliable and safe choice, sure, but one which will be gratifying.
Get Into A Routine Of Reading
The main reason people give for not reading more is, without fail, a lack of time. But that is something that can be remedied, easily. Indeed, by firmly inserting reading into your schedule, you’ll be granting yourself time to enjoy a book and tune out for a while. And that’s gloriously therapeutic, don’t you think?
Try to find time to fit reading into your daily routine, even if it’s just for 10 or 15 minutes a day. If you commute to work via public transport, that could be a great opportunity to fit in some reading twice a day. Or why not read before you go to bed? It might even help you get a better night’s sleep.
Explore The World Of E-Books
In this digital age, the convenience of e-books is unparalleled. With a vast library at your fingertips, you can carry hundreds of books with you on a single device. Platforms like Amazon Kindle and Kobo offer a plethora of titles that you can download in an instant, and you you can even find books here by less popular authors, if you’re seeking something a little esoteric.
Many local libraries also provide free access to e-books, so you can indulge in your reading habit without breaking the bank. The adjustable font sizes and backlit screens make e-books a particularly good choice for reading in bed or on the go, without straining your eyes.
Join (Or Start!) A Genuine, In Person Book Club
Another way you could try to get back into reading is by joining (or starting) a book club. As you need to finish books by a certain time to discuss it, these deadlines will serve as motivation for you to pick up and start reading whenever you can.
There’s also the sociable aspect; book clubs are a great way not only to read new things but also to make new friends (and keep in touch with your old ones!). We couldn’t imagine a more lovely way to spend an evening.
Set Personal Reading Challenges
Challenge yourself with a reading goal that is both exciting and achievable. Whether it’s the number of books you want to read in a year or exploring a new genre each month, setting a challenge can be a fun and rewarding way to rekindle your love for reading. Track your progress with a reading journal or an app, and don’t forget to reward yourself when you hit those milestones!
Attend Author Talks & Literary Events
Keep an eye out for local author talks, book signings, and literary festivals. These events can be incredibly inspiring and reignite your passion for reading. Listening to authors discuss their work can provide fresh insights and a deeper appreciation for the books you read. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to ask questions and engage with the literary community in a meaningful way. Many events are now also available online, so you can join in no matter where you are.
The Bottom Line
Embracing the world of literature is more than just a pastime; it’s a journey that enriches the mind and soothes the soul. With these smart, simple strategies, from diving into the expansive universe of e-books to connecting with like-minded individuals in online book communities, reigniting your reading habit has never been easier.
So, whether you’re rediscovering an old favourite or venturing into uncharted genres, the key is to find joy and comfort in the pages you turn. Let the love for reading be a constant companion in your life, and watch as it transforms your daily routine into an adventure of endless possibilities.
