How do I read more?

1. Disconnect from the world:

I place my phone on airplane mode, but before I do, I message a few people that I will be M.I.A for a few hours. I found this is the easiest way to read without being uninterrupted or as uninterrupted as possible. I generally take it further and play woodfire music on YouTube to create the ambience I need.

2. Set goals:

The easiest way to keep you accountable is to set goals, whether for how many books you want to read this year or how many pages you want to read a week. Personally, I am a big fan of Goodreads. Goodreads is like Facebook for readers and can help you track, find, and befriend.

3. Read with a friend/ book club:

I can see how reading is more of a solo activity, but if you are new to setting goals or trying to figure out the right genre for you, start or join a book club. My friend recently gifted me a book, and now I know I am not built for happy endings – thrillers are my go-to. 

4. Find an author or genre you like:

Genres and authors usually go together. I am fortunate to have found an author who realises a crime/psychological thriller, and even if I am not in the headspace to read, I know I will enjoy it because she is my favourite author. Also, life is short, so please read what you like. I decided to read outside my comfort zone for one year and only finished five books when I am usually at 30+. You do not have to overcomplicate what you like; there is nothing wrong with sticking with an author or genre.

5. Schedule your time: 

This one is tricky. I had to learn this the hard way. Evaluate your time. Most of us have a set routine and just need to break our time. A few ideas that have helped me include the train, my lunch break, and blocking out a day on my weekend.

Conclusion

There you have it—five ways to read more. A quick recap: disconnecting using airplane mode on your phone; setting goals through apps like Goodreads; reading with a friend or book club; finding a genre or author you like; and reevaluating your schedule can help you find gaps in your day where a book can fit in perfectly!