10 Ways I Make Time to Read

It is no secret I am a reader and passionate about literacy as a whole. When I share my love of reading with others 99% of the time I am told, “Well, I just don’t have time to read!” I am bombarded with questions on how I have time to read and where to start. If you are an avid reader, you have most likely experienced this. So what do I say? How do I make time to read? How do I work reading into my daily life?

1. I read at night

Let me guess, you find yourself scrolling on the endless timeline of the social media of your choice OR playing that addicting app? I have been there and find myself laying in bed scrolling many nights. Instead of scrolling read for 15 minutes and DON’T pick up your phone again until the morning (unless you are reading an ebook on it).

2. I don’t read every day

As much as I love reading, I don’t read every day. I have an idea of when I want to finish a book and try to complete it within that time frame. Sometimes I read all day, but I don’t have that much free time. When I do read a few days in a row I get burnt out and have to take a break, no matter how exciting the story is–my eyes need a break. I have tried reading overnight for 15-20 minutes. It worked out great if I had a steady supply of books. If you have oodles of books on hand, that will probably work great for you.

3. I make time to read

As I listed above, I usually read at night, but there are those cozy days when the weather is just right that call for the day reading. Regardless of whether or my mood, I make time to read! I like to read at night, but if it a busy week I will think ahead of time when I can squeeze in reading time. If you have a planner, pencil in some reading time. I know it sounds crazy planning to read. I found if I don’t set time aside it won’t happen.

4. I read things I am interested in

I have been branching out lately to read books I usually wouldn’t, but typically I am only reading what I want to. Don’t force yourself to suffer through a novel or the 100 Books to Read Before You Die list if you don’t enjoy it. Read what you like and stop when you don’t like it. It might take a few tries to find your niche, but it is worth it. I recommend starting with a book that has a tv show or movie based off it. Then it is like a reward when you watch the movie/show.

5. I listen to audiobooks

There is no shame in listening to audiobooks. There are heaps of research out there supporting the benefits of listening to audiobooks. Some months I don’t feel like reading, so I switch it up to listening to audiobooks. This past summer I listened to a handful of classics, it was so much fun. You should give audiobooks a try if you haven’t already. If sitting down and reading a book isn’t going to work for you, audiobooks are the next best.

6. I joined a book club

A small group of friends and I started an online book club. We read maybe three books a year but are actively discussing books and books we want to read. We try to read books outside of our comfort zone; it is fun and an easy way to hold yourself accountable for finishing a book. Before the book club I was reading books with friends. If a book club seems intimidating, try reading with a buddy instead.

7. I go to my local library

I do prefer to use my libraries online catalog, out of laziness, but when I do go I always find new reads! If you are not a member of your library, you need to join! You can borrow ebooks and audiobook from the comfort of your own home using apps like Overdrive, Libby, or Hoopla. Take advantage it is FREE. Read more about perks of libraries here.

8. I make plans to read in public

I love coffee and various other hot drinks. So I make it a point to go to my favorite coffee shop to read and sip on coffee. It is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. You don’t have to limit yourself to coffee shops. I also enjoy reading in parks or hiking to a nice spot. Remember, you can read anywhere!

9. I have a Goodreads reading challenge

You are going to need a Goodreads account, don’t worry it is free. Goodreads is a fantastic app/website where you can keep track of what you are reading, want to read, or have read. You can also set reading challenges for the year. For 2018 my goal is to read 50 books. Goodreads holds me accountable to reach my reading goal, thus forces me to make time to read.

10. I read books that are shows/movies

Like any person, I do get lazy and fall out of my reading habits. To combat burn out I try to watch shows/movies that are based on books. Yes fellow readers, I will watch before I read. Regardless of my feelings of the show, I will pick up the book and make time to read it.

Do you have any tips on how to find time to read or do you read whenever you want? Are you new to the reading community? OR is reading your hobby? Tell me below!

 

If you are new to reading check out my post about the free apps you need as a reader!