My love for reading began in my early years. I would immerse myself in books before and after school, always eager to participate in summer reading challenges and spend my pocket money at book fairs. However, as I progressed through high school and college, reading started feeling more like a task than a pleasure, eventually leading me to stop reading for enjoyment altogether.
Recently, I’ve reignited my passion for reading and now find myself devouring more books than ever before. I indulge in physical books, listen to audiobooks, and carry my Kindle everywhere. Making reading a part of my daily routine has not only enriched my knowledge but also connected me with fellow book enthusiasts through platforms like Bookstagram, BookTok, and local book clubs.
After discussing reading habits with prominent book influencers, I’ve gathered tips on prioritizing reading and transforming it into a lasting hobby, hoping to inspire you to rediscover the joy of reading.
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1. Rethink Your Approach to Reading.
Reading for pleasure differs from academic reading. You’re not confined to one book for a semester or obligated to write reports. Experiment with new genres, revisit old favorites, or abandon a book if it doesn’t resonate with you.
Encouraging readers to explore beyond their comfort zones, Shaley from @2reador2write suggests, “Read frequently and diversely; it brings immense joy, as it has for me!”
Reading for enjoyment has no constraints. It’s not a race or a competition. —Victoria Wood of @bibliolifestyle
2. Just Dive In—Start Reading.
Although simplistic, the key is to begin. Seek book recommendations on BookTok or visit local bookstores for inspiration. Identify what genres captivate you and delve into a book, BookTok recommendation or not.
Victoria Wood, the voice behind @bibliolifestyle, stresses casting aside preconceptions about reading: “Reading for pleasure has no rules. It’s not a race or a competition. Therefore, give yourself the liberty to read whatever you desire in your preferred format.”
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3. Enjoy What You Read.
Indulge in genres you love without guilt. For me, romance novels have always been a guilty pleasure. From heartwarming love stories to steamy reads, I openly share my love for romance on my Bookstagram. While I appreciate other genres, I gravitate toward romance during reading slumps or when looking for a new book.
Embrace your favorite genre. Whether you fancy enemies-to-lovers, age-gap romance, or other tropes, exploring familiar themes can guide you to new reads that resonate with you.
4. Make Time for Reading.
Devoting even a few minutes to a couple of hours to reading is pivotal in establishing a reading routine. To cultivate this habit, swap a TV episode for a few book chapters, read while sipping your morning coffee instead of scrolling through your phone, or listen to audiobooks during walks instead of music. These small changes will elevate your reading habits swiftly.
Lianna, a Bookstagrammer and podcast host, finds incorporating reading into her daily schedule enhances her reading experience: “I set aside time every evening before bed. Immersed in a compelling story, it becomes effortless to read. I often choose my book over a TV show—a testament to a captivating plot!”
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5. Explore Various Reading Formats.
Repeat after me: Audiobooks count as reading. If finding time for physical books is challenging or you seek a new reading experience, audiobooks are an excellent alternative. Additionally, don’t limit yourself to one format. If you’re feeling stuck, @booksbyheath suggests, “Try switching formats. Experiment with audiobooks during walks or consider using a Kindle for convenience and ease of reading.”
6. Utilize Reading Apps and Sites.
Irrespective of your reading preferences and frequency, numerous resources can assist you in discovering books you love and sticking to reading. From free digital platforms like Libby to indie bookstores and subscription book services such as Book of the Month, these resources can elevate your reading experience:
- Libby
- NetGalley
- Goodreads
- Pangobooks
- Bookshop.org
- Blackwells
- Kindle Unlimited
- Audible
- The Strand
- Scribd
- Book of the Month
- Storygraph
7. Begin with a Few Recommendations.
Step into the vast world of books by selecting a starting point. With countless titles available, choosing where to begin can be daunting. Kickstart your reading venture with a popular summer read or explore these Bookstagram-recommended titles:
