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Many envision an idyllic scenario of reading in a park under a tree, with just the right weather and comfort. However, often this romantic image clashes with reality. Interruptions such as uncomfortable seating, forgotten snacks, and distractions can turn this pleasant daydream into a struggle. Reading should not be a one-time event filled with perfect moments. According to Kevin Nguyen, author and reading enthusiast, waiting for ideal situations means books may never get finished.
Allow yourself to read whenever, wherever.
Here are tips from experts including a neuroscientist and a book festival organizer on cultivating a consistent reading habit.
Find Reading Opportunities Throughout the Day
Use spare moments while waiting for public transport, standing in queues, or during errands to read a few pages. Kevin Nguyen suggests using commute times effectively—consider audiobooks during drives or opening a book during subway rides instead of succumbing to phone distractions.
Keep Books Within Easy Reach
Place books in strategic locations. Juanita Giles, director of the Virginia Children’s Book Festival, recommends having books in different parts of your home and always having one with you. Whether it’s an upstairs book, a car book, or a bathroom book, accessibility increases the likelihood of reading.
Prefer Paper Books to Digital Formats
Maryanne Wolf, cognitive neuroscientist and author, advises choosing paper books to reduce digital distractions. Phones can divert attention with notifications, leading to habitual behavior like skimming. Opting for paper helps in maintaining focus.
Choose Books Based on Available Time
Different books require varied depths of concentration. In situations like waiting at the DMV, lighter reads are ideal. Some books, such as Siddhartha, are quicker reads compared to more complex texts like Narcissus and Goldmund.
Stop Reading If You Don’t Enjoy It
If a book fails to engage you, don’t hesitate to put it down. Traci Thomas, host of book podcast The Stacks, encourages this practice as a way to cultivate taste. With numerous choices available, finding what genuinely interests you is key.
This content was produced by Sylvie Douglis, with visual editing by CJ Riculan. Let us know your thoughts by emailing [email protected]. Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and subscribe to our newsletter for more insights.