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I’ve heard from many friends that they wish they read more books. Once they have kids and are balancing everything that come along with that, reading often takes a back seat to more pressing tasks. I get it.
Over the last few years, I’ve managed to fit a lot more reading into my life, even with new babies, all the kid activities, and trying to maintain our home. Here are 10 ideas to start reading more and make it a habit.
1. Read Something Easy, Familiar, or Seasonal
There are so many amazing books out there and sometimes knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. My advice is to start with something easy or seasonal. When I’m stuck in a reading rut, I’ll often pick up an old, familiar favorite (like the Harry Potter series).
>> RELATED READ :: 5 Books We Are Reading and Loving Right Now <<
2. Listen to an Audiobook
It took me a long time to figure out how to fit audiobooks into my life. I’m a stay-at-home mom, so I don’t spend a ton of time in the car. Recently, I realized I can listen to audiobooks while doing work around my house, and not just during nap time. The key for me is to have one ear open for the inventible “Mama!” that someone will shout.
I use my AfterShokz headphones, which I also love for running. I can hear my book and my kids at the same time!
3. Set a Timer
Setting a 15- or 20-minute timer for reading can help establish a reading habit. Even if you only do it a few days a week, it can make a big difference.
4. Start a New Bedtime or Morning Routine
As much as I love mindlessly scrolling Insta before bed, I feel a lot better if I read instead.
If you’re more of a morning person, consider setting your alarm just a few minutes earlier and spending that time with a good book to start to the day.
5. Set a Goal
I’ve been using Goodreads to track my reading for years. One of my favorite features is the yearly Reading Challenge. You can set a goal at the beginning of the year and track your books as the year progresses. It will even let you know if you’re on track, ahead, or behind schedule.
>> RELATED READ :: 4 Must-Read Self-Improvement Books for Goal Setting <<
6. Schedule a Reading Meal
Laura Tremaine talks about “reading meals” on Instagram all the time. Schedule a reading lunch (or breakfast or dinner) for yourself. You can go out, order takeout, or just read while eating a PB&J sandwich at home.
7. Read What Your Kids Are Reading
If you can’t think of anything you’d like to read, why not read what your kids are reading? My eight-year-old son and I have read several of the same books this year and have really enjoyed having our own book club.
8. Use a Device
I got my first Kindle when my second child was still a baby. I think that device is the one single thing that got me back into reading. Suddenly, I was able to read while nursing a baby, late at night, in a dark room. All the hours I spent in our rocking chair mindlessly scrolling my phone could now be spent reading. What a game changer! The newest Kindles are lightweight, waterproof, have dimmable screens, and have password protection (which is important when your big kids try to play with it).
9. Join a Book Club
Joining a book club can help you discover books that are outside of your comfort zone, plus it’s a great excuse to go out for an evening with your friends.
If you aren’t sure where to find a book club, you can start your own. Or join our Dallas Moms Book Club!
10. Just Read
Is this one a little too on the nose? Maybe, but hear me out. Do you remember that advice from the baby books, “sleep begets sleep”? I think the same can be said about reading. I’m coining the new phrase now, “reading begets reading.” The more you read, the more you’ll want to read. And you’ll find ways to fit it into your day and prioritize it.
You can follow along with what I’m reading over on Instagram @villa_villebartula. I’d love to hear any tips that have helped you read more!
