It’s a known fact that regular reading is good, but it can be a struggle to cultivate a reading habit. This might be because you’ve got a busy schedule, which gives you no time for reading. Or as a result of distractions from technology and social media. Other times, choosing the wrong genres of books might be the reason for your lack of interest.
You already know that you can achieve academic success and professional growth by reading, and that’s why you’re here. So, one hurdle is crossed.
Now, you probably need strategies to help you read more. If that’s why you’re here, you’ve come to the right place. This article discusses how to cultivate a reading habit.
Practical Tips to Cultivate a Reading Habit
1. Create a Conducive Reading Environment
To enjoy reading, you have to be comfortable when you read. So you can create an environment that will encourage this habit. It should be a reading area that is cosy, well-lit, and has a comfortable seat.
You can make the space more appealing by giving it some personal touches like air diffusers or your favourite cactus. It should have minimised distractions from your electronic devices and other noise.
2. Set Achievable Reading Goals
There’s no magical wand to reading regularly; this habit can only be formed over time. This is why you must establish a reading schedule for your reading goal. It has to be realistic for you to achieve it. For instance, setting a goal to read two books per week is illogical when you can’t yet cover five pages daily.
To meet your reading objectives, you’ll need to determine the number of books or pages you want and can read per day, week, and month. As you progress, track your progress, and you’ll be surprised how much you’re reading.
3. Develop a Reading Routine
Reading can’t be a habit if it’s not part of your routine. You must incorporate reading time into your daily and weekly schedules. Start your day by reading a few pages; it sets a positive tone.
Or make reading a part of your bedtime routine—brushing, reading, etc. Also, you can squeeze in reading throughout the day when you find time. This could be any waiting time, tea break, or lunchtime.
4. Explore Diverse Genres and Authors
We all have genres we’re more inclined to read; even bookworms do. But to cultivate a reading habit, you must explore different genres. This is because sticking to a genre can be limiting and boring over time.
You need to broaden your reading horizon. It will open you to new authors and more unique writing styles and topics.
Besides actual books, you can include magazines and newspapers. The idea is to sometimes go beyond your comfort zone and read a difficult genre. The reward of overcoming such a challenge can be liberating and motivating.
5. Utilise Technology and Reading Apps
It’s okay if you don’t like the bulkiness of books, but this shouldn’t deter you from reading regularly.
Thanks to technology, you can access eBooks and audiobooks on several digital platforms. You can also use reading apps; some will provide recommendations based on your preferences.
Plus, some apps have virtual book clubs where you can participate in discussions. This is an exciting way to read if you’re a nature lover or always on the go.
Also Read: Must-Have Reading Apps to Download as a Book Lover
6. Make Reading a Social Activity
Sharing your interests with friends and family is common, and reading is no different. So, make reading a part of your social life to improve your reading habits.
You can encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to read together or separately.
In addition, you can organise book clubs or join existing ones. This will allow you to engage in discussions and share thoughts on books.
7. Join Reading Communities or Book Clubs
You need like-minded people to support your reading habit. Reading communities or book clubs will provide you with this opportunity.
You can participate in reading challenges and book discussions in person or online. This will help you find uncommon books and authors and save you time searching for new books.
Also Read: Best Social Networking Sites for Readers
Cultivate a Reading Lifestyle
These strategies will kindle your reading and enable you to cultivate a reading habit. But to achieve this goal, you must be faithful to your daily reading routine. It doesn’t matter if it’s 10 minutes or 1 hour of daily reading; staying consistent is the best way to form a habit.
