How to develop the habit of reading books?
Reading is to mind what exercise is to body, aptly quoted by Richard Steele.
Was developing the habit of reading books part of your New Year resolutions? Have you tried to make a habit of 'reading' and yet failed to be regular even in lockdown?
To develop a reading habit, always keep in mind three things:
First, you need to realize that reading books is an imaginative and enjoyable task. Second, do not push yourself to read any book if it doesn't seem appealing to you as it will become a chore. And the last, choose a book which you'd love to read.
All of you are aware of the fact of reading books. But, ever wondered why you should read? There are plenty of benefits to reading. Here are some of them-
Increases Vocabulary:
You discover 100s of new words while reading books. A good vocabulary helps you to express yourself creatively in writing as well as improves communication.
Enhances Focus:
The main problem of every age group is- 'Distraction'. Reading brings you into a whole new world where your sole focus is on your book. Thus, reading intensifies your focus. Focus is the gateway to all thinking, learning, decision making, or problem-solving.
Reduces Stress:
Books have a stress-buster superpower. Reading books let you escape from all the stress and anxiety of the day.
Better Sleep:
Struggling to sleep will no longer be a problem if you start reading before going to bed at night. Reading relaxes your mind and helps you in getting a sound sleep.
Increases Imagination and Creativity:
Reading words stimulates pictures in your mind. Reading books stir out creativity and the mind starts imagining vividly.
13 useful techniques to cultivate a healthy reading habit: Now the question arises on how to include reading in your daily schedule?
Try these powerful tips to be more productive and efficient in reading.
Jot down a reading list-
Jot down the names of books that you want to read. Get recommendations from your friends or find readers online with similar interests. Keep adding names in the list and cross off the names which you’ve read. Having a list is necessary so that when you finish your current book, you already know which book to read n
Set daily or weekly goals-
Setting reasonable reading goals will help you read books efficiently. Also, set a time for each day you'll devote to reading. You can choose any time of the day like, reading 40 minutes before going to bed at night or reading 20 minutes after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Beginning with it will help you excel in reading. But there's always more you can do!
Read in a quiet place-
Find a place in your home where you have minimum distractions. For instance, read where you hear fewer noises from your family members, less music, or the sound of the TV. Doing this will increase your concentration and will help in building interest.
Have Coffee/Tea while reading-
Make some coffee/ tea for yourself to enjoy your reading time. To make your reading time pleasurable, 'sit on a comfortable chair, or lie on the bed, read while sipping coffee or tea from the cup in your hand.'
Explore your interests-
Reading is much more exciting when you read something where your interests lie. Search out for blogs, books, or magazines that you find most enjoyable and keep you going.
Install e-reading apps-
Surround yourself with stuff that encourages you to read more. In today's emerging digital era, online tools like e-books, news aggregators are often helpful. Figure out similar tools for yourself and start investing time in them.
Have a pencil while reading-
What to do if you find an interesting quote or a good concept while reading a book? Yes, that's where you'll need a pencil to underline or make notes. Make your book reading more engaging by following this little technique.
Find your Book Buddy-
Get yourself a reading partner who can read the same book at the same time as you and is always ready to discuss it. Doing things alone might seem monotonous sometimes, but having a partner with the same reading goal is always engaging. This social interaction will help you both to develop a great reading experience.
Create your Book Reviews-
Creating your book reviews after you've finished reading the book will help you to jot down key ideas, your favourite quotes, or a quick report of the book. It will help you to be answerable for what you've read and also improve your writing skills.
Decide a 'Going-to-Bookstore Day'-
Though the internet has made your every search simple, still going to a bookstore, and being surrounded by so many books physically is a great experience. It will help you explore new books. Search out for the nearest book store you have in your area and set a particular day for going there. Schedule a day once in a week or month will help you instil the reading habit for a lifetime.
Keep a record-
Always keep a record of the book when you started and finished it reading similar to the reading list. It is so good to see the long list of books you've read so far and will make you more organized.
Carry a book, always-
How to pass your time while commuting to college? Make sure you carry a book in your bag and utilize your time productively by reading. Stop being irritated waiting for anyone, take out your book, and continue your reading.
Don't rush-
Don't rush while doing anything. Reading and learning take time. Stay motivated and give yourself some time to grow. Your mind will eventually develop reading tactics. Nurture your skills and let them develop at their own pace.
No matter what interests you but here are some of the good reads that you can commence with and develop your love for reading-
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Books are considered a man’s best friend and they will always be. Each book opens up great experiences in your life that help you evade reality and immerse yourself in another universe.
Therefore, the time has come to stop drifting yourself from your reading goals and rather forming a solid reading habit by grasping these techniques.
‘Keep reading. It’s one of the most marvellous adventures that anyone can have’- Lloyd Alexander.
By Isha Garg for Young Engine