How To Read More Books: Tips For Busy People

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“‘Classic’ – a book which people praise and don’t read.”

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Finding time to read more books isn’t easy when your schedule is rammed full of work, family, and never-ending to-do lists. If you’ve ever wished you could find a way of sneaking in a few more pages a day but don’t know how, we feel you. Many busy people struggle with making reading a consistent habit. The good news? With the right strategies, you can read more books, even with a hectic schedule. Today at What We Reading, we’re sharing practical tips on how to read more books, stay motivated, and find more time for reading, regardless of how stacked your schedule is. Whether you’re a newcomer or someone looking to rediscover their love of reading, these tips are guaranteed to help you turn reading from a wish into a rewarding daily habit. 

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Why Reading More Matters

Reading more books isn’t just about finishing your TBR list. It’s about enriching your life in meaningful ways. Studies show that regularly reading can reduce stress, improve mental health, and boost both your focus and creativity. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, books have the potential to broaden our knowledge, widen our perspectives, and present a badly-needed escape from the daily grind. 

Even with a busy lifestyle, carving out time to read can help you recharge, sharpen your mind, and find moments of calm in the chaos. Remember, reading doesn’t have to be a chore; it’s a gift you give to yourself. That may sound cheesy, but there’s real evidence that making reading a priority can have a big impact on your overall well-being, no matter how small the amount of time you spend. 

How To Read More Books: 10 Tips For Busy People

Tip 1: Set Realistic Goals

Trying to get through a book a week may feel overwhelming when your calendar is already looking full. Instead, focus on achievable goals such as reading a chapter a day or getting through a book a month. For context, our goal this year is to read twenty books by the end of the year. Realistic goals help busy readers remain consistent without the added pressure. 

Tip 2: Use Audiobooks and Podcasts to Read on the Go

Audiobooks are total game-changers for busy people. You can listen whilst commuting, doing chores, or working out – turning otherwise “dead” time into reading time. This way, you can enjoy more books without having to worry about carving out extra minutes from your daily schedule. 

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Check Out These Great Benefits Of Listening To Audiobooks

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Tip 3: Dedicate Small Reading Sessions Every Day

You don’t need hours to make progress. Even ten to fifteen minutes of reading each day adds up quickly. Try to slot in short reading bursts throughout the day: during breaks, before bed, alongside your morning coffee to help construct a steady habit. 

Tip 4: Create a Comfortable Reading Environment

Find a cosy, quiet spot free from distractions where you can relax with your book. A comfortable environment helps you to focus better and makes reading feel like a treat, rather than a task. 

Tip 5: Track Your Reading Progress with Journals and Apps

Apps like Goodreads or keeping a simple reading journal can help motivate you to keep going. Seeing your progress visually is a great way of reinforcing the habit and encourages you to read even more. 

Tip 6: Carry a Book Everywhere – Physical or Digital

Having a book or e-reader handy means you can take advantage of unexpected free moments during the day. Waiting in line, during lunch breaks, or whilst travelling (we’re big fans of reading on the bus!) Being prepared helps you to read more consistently. 

Tip 7: Limit Distractions During Reading Time

Put your phone on silent mode, turn off notifications, or use a reading app’s focus mode to minimise interruptions. The more you’re able to focus during your reading sessions, the more you’ll absorb and enjoy. 

Tip 8: Combine Reading with Other Activities

Coupling reading with other routines can also boost your book count. Try listening to audiobooks whilst exercising, cooking, or doing some light housework. This multitasking helps make reading fit in naturally with your busy life. 

Tip 9: Join a Book Club or Reading Challenge

Accountability and social connection can be powerful motivators. Whether it’s an online or local book club, participating in reading challenges is another great way to keep your reading momentum going. 

Tip 10: Prioritise Books That Truly Interest You

When time is limited, choose books that genuinely interest or excite you. Passion for your reading material makes it far easier to stay engaged and look forward to your reading sessions, even when you’re slammed with commitments and things to do. 

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Check Out These Books To Make You Fall In Love With Reading

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Wrap Up

Reading books is totally possible, even with a busy schedule, when you use practical strategies like setting realistic goals, making the most of audiobooks, and carving out small daily reading sessions. Remember, it isn’t all about how fast you can read, but making reading a consistent and enjoyable part of your life. 

Why not try one or two of the tips we’ve listed here and see how they work for you? Whether it’s listening to an audiobook during your commute or setting a goal to read just ten minutes before bed, small changes have the potential to grow into big results. 

We’d love to hear from you now! Share your own favourite tips for how to read more books in the comments section below!