Mar 7th, 2024 on

Easy Ways to Read More Books This Year

Hey there, fellow seekers of solace! Today, I’m excited to share some insights I’ve gathered over the past five years that have significantly boosted my reading habits. Before we dive in, though, I want to make something clear: I’m not claiming to be an expert. This post is simply me, sharing my personal journey on my humble blog. It’s not about showing off how many books I can devour in a year. Sure, I clock in at just under a hundred books annually, but let’s remember, it’s not a competition. Reading is a deeply personal experience, and what matters most is the joy and solace it brings, not the numbers on a Goodreads profile.

So, why am I writing this post? Well, for me, reading isn’t just a hobby; it’s a sanctuary, a refuge from the chaos of the world, especially during these turbulent times. It’s my escape, my solace, and surprisingly, my coping mechanism for anxiety. And who knows? Maybe by sharing my journey, I’ll offer a glimmer of hope or inspiration to someone out there struggling to find their own oasis in the pages of a book. So, let’s embark on this literary adventure together, shall we?

Short Stories for Beginners, Start Slow

Short stories are my newfound passion, discovered at the dawn of this year. Exploring this captivating literary form has brought me immense joy and a renewed appreciation for the written word. While I recently shared some of my favorites in a previous post, the sheer abundance of tales I’ve devoured since then beckons another compilation. Short stories, to me, are like hidden treasures waiting to be unearthed, a delightful escape that can be savored even in the fleeting moments of a lunch break.

They’re not just a convenient option for those pressed for time, but also a welcoming gateway into the expansive realm of literature, particularly for beginners. Short stories offer an appealing glimpse into various genres, allowing readers to sample different flavors and expand their literary horizons. It’s an opportunity to explore the unknown, challenge your perceptions, and perhaps even discover a newfound love for a genre you never thought you’d enjoy.

So, grab a story and let yourself be transported to another world, if only for a few moments. You’ll be amazed at the places your mind can wander in such a short amount of time.

Audiobooks

Audiobooks are a recent discovery for me, and I must say, they’ve quickly become an essential part of my daily routine. Whether I’m commuting, taking a stroll, or winding down before bed, audiobooks provide the perfect companionship. I used to fill my walks with podcasts, but now, I reserve them for immersing myself in captivating stories. What’s more, they’ve proven to be a soothing remedy for those hectic days. My sister-in-law shared her struggle with finding time to read physical books, especially after a long day of work and tending to her little ones. She found solace in audiobooks, as they offer the comfort of storytelling without the strain of reading in dim light. A few chapters before bed serve as a tranquil escape, helping her unwind and drift off to sleep.

Audiobooks offer a different yet equally enthralling experience compared to reading. They provide a unique form of entertainment, captivating listeners with vivid narration and immersive storytelling. They’re a versatile tool for self-care and relaxation, seamlessly accompanying you through the day and transforming mundane tasks into moments of enchantment. What’s more, they’re a great option for those who may have visual impairments or simply prefer not to focus on screens or paper. So, if you haven’t delved into the world of audiobooks yet, I highly recommend giving them a try. You might just discover a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling in audio form.

Make it a Routine

Are you one of those who instinctively reach for their phone and scroll through social media for half an hour after turning off the alarm in the morning? Consider this: instead of grabbing your phone, why not reach for a book? Take that precious half-hour for yourself and immerse yourself in a good read. Let me share what works for me. Every morning, after I wake up, I head downstairs to make coffee and breakfast. Then, I settle down at my kitchen table - office, and I dive into my Kindle for half an hour. It’s been my routine for the past few years, and it’s transformed my mornings into a peaceful and productive time.

Perhaps you can also make reading a part of your bedtime routine. Swap out the habit of scrolling through social media before bed and replace it with a few chapters of a book. Find those pockets of time throughout your day where you typically spend it on social media, and consciously choose to allocate that time to reading instead. By making reading a routine part of your day, you’ll not only read more books but also find a sense of fulfillment and relaxation in the process.

Join a Reading Community

Being a fan of Goodreads, I’ve found immense joy in connecting with fellow bookworms, creating lists of books I want to read, tracking my progress, and challenging myself with yearly reading goals. But it’s not just about Goodreads, there’s a whole world of apps and websites dedicated to bibliophiles like us. Personally, I’ve also joined a Facebook group dedicated to psychological thrillers, where we share reviews, recommendations, and even host occasional Q&A sessions with acclaimed authors. It’s a vibrant community where we bond over our shared love for gripping narratives and delve into discussions that enrich our reading experiences.

Joining book clubs or online reading communities is more than just a hobby, it’s a gateway to meaningful connections and engaging discussions. Reading doesn’t have to be a solitary activity, it’s an opportunity to forge friendships and share your passion for literature with like-minded individuals. So, if you’re looking for motivation, inspiration, or simply a sense of belonging, consider joining a reading community. You’ll not only enhance your reading journey but also find a community that celebrates the joy of reading together!