Reading is not only a wonderful way to relax, it is a great way to learn. When I became a full-time caregiver for my mom who had dementia, I learned a lot. In fact, one of the best steps you can take for self-improvement as a caregiver is to read more. Reading opens you up to a whole world of different skills, viewpoints and ideas that challenge you. Becoming an avid reader isn’t going to be easy, but it will be worth it. If you want to read more, but have been struggling, then try these steps.
- Start with a Topic You Enjoy
If you’re trying to build a reading habit, then starting with something you enjoy is a great starting point. Working on a new habit is hard enough why not make it a little easier by choosing a topic you’re really interested in and start reading!
- Set Goals to Challenge Yourself
Are you the type of person that rises to a challenge? Then consider setting up your own reading challenges. You can focus on something short-term like trying to hit a certain number of pages each day, or how about something long-term like challenging yourself to read a certain number of books in a month or year.
- Don’t Forget about Audio Books
This might be a controversial suggestion, but don’t sleep on audio books. Yes, it might not technically be “reading” but it is still a positive way to ingest information. You can listen to an audio book when you otherwise can’t read like driving, walking, or exercising… plus it can open you up to new insights that you can actually read about later.
- Consider an eBook Subscription
Another controversial step? Maybe, now I’m not saying you have to give up your physical books. An eBook subscription is just another way to find interesting things to read. A massive benefit is the wide libraries you can get access to for a small subscription fee. eBooks also ensure you always have something on hand to read.
- Keep a Reading Log
Tracking the books, you read is a great way to stay motivated to keep reading. I used this for my students all the time. As your list builds, your confidence will as well. You’ll want to keep adding to your list. Your reading log is also useful to help you keep track of what you have read, or what you want to read.
- Schedule Reading Time
A lot of people claim that “lack of time” is their biggest hurdle when it comes to reading. You wanna know how to fix that? Make time. Look at your schedule and figure out when you can pencil in some reading time. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to find some reading time each day.
- Get Comfortable
When you’re ready to get in some serious reading time, make sure you’re comfortable. Find a nice comfy spot and settle in. You should also have adequate lighting, and it wouldn’t hurt to have a snack or drink within reach.
- Don’t Get Caught up in Finishing
A lot of people have an overwhelming urge to finish anything they start. While this is an admirable trait, it isn’t always conducive to building a reading habit. If you are bored out of your mind, or simply disinterested by the time you get through 50 pages or more, consider starting something new.
- Join a Book Club
Joining a book club is a great idea for people wanting to read more. There’s added accountability knowing you have to discuss the book with others on a regular basis. Plus, you might enjoy the social aspect of it as well.
Happy Reading.
Let me know what’s on your reading list.
Comment below.
ACTIONABLE STEPS
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| What book topics or genres excite you the most? Brainstorm a list of topics you’d like to read more about. | Choose a single topic or genre from the list you just created. Google books about that topic. You can also search for “best of” lists or the Amazon best sellers’ lists. Make a list of the books that interest you. | Choose one book that interests you and read the first 50 pages. If you like the book, continue. If it hasn’t caught your attention by then, stop reading and choose another book. |