Did you know that reading increases emotional intelligence, and consequently, your career outlooks?

Many people would like to read more, but they are not sure where to start. While most of them are aware of the benefits of reading and like the idea of including this activity in their daily routine, they end up constantly postponing it. 

But don’t worry, I’m here to help you transform reading into a habit! 

Check out my tips on how to start reading more:

1. Do it for the pleasure

The reason why many people don’t read is that they see it as an obligation instead of something they enjoy doing. Plus, they feel the social pressure of reading certain books. Don’t fall into this trap. Research shows that reading for pleasure can lead to the development of stronger reading habits.

To begin with, you should read whatever you like. People have very different preferences, so what worked for your friends might not work for you and that’s okay. 

Secondly, you should not put too much pressure on yourself. For example, don’t set unrealistic goals of reading a large number of books per month. If you do this, reading will begin to feel like a chore rather than a fun activity.

Therefore, just do what works best for you. Pick up books that you think you might like and don’t commit to unrealistic goals.

2. Always carry a book with you

You never know when the opportunity to squeeze in some reading in your schedule might occur. Therefore, it’s important to be prepared. Always have a book with you wherever you are. Whether it’s on your daily commute, on a break, or while waiting for a friend, you can make the most of this time if you have a book. 

You don’t need to carry a heavy hardcover. Take a paperback, use a kindle or download an audiobook—whatever works best for you. Audiobooks are my go to during all my commuting and waiting for my son in the arena parking lots.

3. Don’t be afraid to quit

You don’t enjoy the book you are currently reading? Then stop reading it and don’t feel guilty about it. Life is too short to waste time reading books that you don’t like.

Feeling obliged to finish a book you don’t enjoy will probably determine you to postpone reading and stop enjoying reading as a whole. Most people who see reading as a chore have this opinion simply because they forced themselves to read the wrong books. Don’t be one of them. Instead, feel free to read things that make you feel good and simply give up on books that don’t match your preferences.

4. Create a reading friendly environment

Set the mood for reading by creating a pleasant and distraction-free environment. Turn off the TV and find a place where no one will disturb you. You could even go outside and enjoy some fresh air while reading. Make a cup of tea or coffee, and take a seat in a comfortable place. 

Creating a pleasant environment will not only make the experience more enjoyable, but it will also make your mind associate reading with relaxation. This way, you will be more likely to do it on a regular basis.

5. Join a book club

Joining a book club and getting to know other readers is a great way to motivate yourself to read more. Plus, reading is much more fun when you have friends to discuss the books with. Research shows that participation in shared reading communities enhances relaxation, calmness, as well as feelings of shared community and common purpose.

Also, by attending the book club’s meetings, you have the chance to find out other people’s opinions and discover aspects you didn’t notice about the books. Plus, you get to meet people with similar preferences who might give you some great book recommendations.

So, what are you waiting for? Join a local book club or search for a digital one. 

6. Listen to Audiobooks

While printed books are still the most popular, audiobooks are also gaining popularity.

If you don’t have time or patience to read a physical book, audiobooks are a great option. Replace your usual music playlist with an audiobook and see how it works. The best thing is that you can listen to them while performing mundane tasks, such as cleaning or commuting to work. In fact, audiobooks are an awesome way to make these activities more interesting. 

Listening to audiobooks can also motivate you to read more physical books. For example, you can try to pick up a series and listen to the first volume. Then, you can switch to physical books for the remaining ones, as you will already be interested in the topic of the book, and, therefore, more motivated to read.

Final thoughts

Remember that the most important step towards reading more is to make sure you enjoy it. Reading is a very relaxing and pleasant habit once you get into it. Therefore, consider the tips above, find a book you like, and discover how this habit can change your life.

What is one book that you would recommend for people who want to read more? Let us know in the comments below!