Developing a reading habit can be a challenge.
You know what I mean. Before diving into this post, maybe you should go for a run (optional), have a refreshing shower, splurge on that expensive chair you’ve been eyeing on Amazon, or treat yourself to some premium speakers and a subscription for LoFi or smooth jazz playlists.
Create that perfect environment for yourself.
Does this sound familiar?
Reading can be one of the most enriching experiences we can have. Yet, I get it—many of us struggle to focus on even three pages. In today’s fast-paced world, the allure of our phones often feels more irresistible than engaging with a book.
It’s easy to give in to the instant gratification of scrolling through TikTok or watching a short YouTube video—quick bursts of dopamine that give us a sense of excitement.
But here’s the truth: our brains crave context.
Books provide a depth of information that requires us to build entire worlds, scenarios, and places in our minds. Over time, this information transforms into knowledge, helping us make better decisions, develop empathy, and gain invaluable life lessons. It’s like that “aha!” moment when you finally understand a complex equation after struggling with it. Eventually, it all makes sense.
Now, compare that to the quick flicks we get from TikTok and YouTube.
It’s like skipping years of accumulated wisdom that would otherwise keep you from crashing into a metaphorical star. By bypassing context for instant gratification, we set ourselves up for a reality devoid of depth—and that’s when we become vulnerable.
Is Reading Dull and Pointless?
Can you think of a world leader or a top business mogul who doesn’t read? In ancient times, people didn’t have books—they had books in their minds. Their incredible memory skills were their superpower. If you don’t use your mind, you lose it. Ignorance may seem blissful, but knowledge is power. Those who seek knowledge control the narrative.
So, How Do You Build a Reading Habit?
You’ve probably heard the advice: Get away from your phone, read different books, stop reading what doesn’t inspire you, read what excites you.
However, I believe these methods set us up for failure. Here’s why: If you don’t develop the habit of reading books that may not always excite you, you’ll always prefer your phone. The phone is designed to excite you with endless stimulation. But reading? It’s a deeper, slower process that rewards patience.
Think of your phone as a tool—not something that should consume your entire life. It’s like adding ketchup to coffee or chocolate powder into wine—while it may seem tempting, it’s not meant for everything. Your phone is great for some things, but reading requires a focused, intentional environment.
Location Matters in Reading
Some people can read anywhere: on a train, in a busy café, at a noisy bus stop, or even with music in their ears. Personally, I find it difficult to read in a bustling place. I prefer silence, sometimes using noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions. But here’s the thing: you get to choose your method.
For me, reading is a form of immersion. Whether it’s a technical guide, short story, or novel, I dive deep into the character’s journey and often wonder about the author’s intentions with specific words and paragraphs. Great writing can evoke powerful imagery—it’s like being transported into a vivid scene, almost able to smell and feel the atmosphere.
Reading is Mindfulness
Reading allows you to escape reality and dive into your mind. It’s a chance to silence the noise around you and tune into a new world. When you’re deeply immersed in a book, you may even forget the sounds of rain, the rustling of leaves, or the chatter around you. This is the magic of reading—it lets you enter a space of pure silence where you can explore thoughts, ideas, and emotions that wouldn’t be accessible otherwise.
The Power of Silence in Reading
When you read, it’s as though your body is attuned to the words. The world outside falls away, leaving only the thoughts and lessons in front of you. It’s a profound experience—a reassuring silence that encourages you to wander through words and discover something new, just as you might gaze at the night sky, wondering about the mysteries beyond.
While I love spending time with family, those quiet moments of reading are special. They let me reconnect with myself and grow intellectually. And no, reading doesn’t mean just sitting by your bedside reading a page a day. It’s about finding a genuine motivation to read.
Why You Need to Find Your Why
Instead of forcing yourself to read something just because it’s “good for you,” start with what truly interests you. Ask questions, research, and build curiosity about topics that excite you. Once you find your motivation, you’ll feel a natural urge to read—not because you “have to,” but because you want to.
The key is not to follow a rigid set of rules like you would for an exam. Don’t get caught in the trap of quantifying your reading. It’s not about setting strict goals—it’s about enjoying the experience.
How to Build Your Reading Habit: A Simple Guide
- Find Your Motivation: What excites you? Dive into topics that spark your curiosity. Research, ask others, and explore what draws you in. The more interested you are, the more you’ll want to read.
- Create Your Reading Environment: Choose a quiet, comfortable space to read. Whether it’s in silence or with noise-canceling headphones, make sure it’s an environment where you can immerse yourself fully.
- Start Small but Intentional: Don’t set rigid goals. Start with smaller reads—articles, blogs, or shorter pieces. Build your interest, and the desire to read books will come naturally.
- Engage with the Material: Treat books like conversations. Ask questions, reflect on the author’s message, and engage deeply with the content. This will help you understand and appreciate the material.
- Make Time for Reading: Schedule dedicated reading time—ideally 2-3 hours in the evening. Use this time to enjoy the process without interruptions.
- Enjoy the Journey: Reading is about exploration. Let go of the pressure to follow rigid rules and embrace the process of learning. Allow your habit to grow naturally.
The Last Chapter: Don’t Miss Out on Adventures
Much like you’ve developed habits like watching TV or swiping through your phone, you can build the habit of reading. As you grow older, you’ll wish you’d spent more time with books. Reading doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right mindset and approach, it can become one of the most enriching parts of your life.
By focusing on your motivation and creating an intentional reading environment, you can build a habit that will not only improve your knowledge but transform your life.
Start today—immerse yourself in the world of books, and let the adventure begin!