Most people want to read more but struggle to find time. Yet many voracious readers have the same 24 hours—they've just developed systems that make reading part of daily life.
Benefits of Reading
- Knowledge and skill development
- Improved vocabulary and communication
- Stress reduction
- Better sleep (compared to screens)
- Enhanced empathy and perspective-taking
- Mental stimulation and cognitive benefits
Finding Time to Read
Replace Screen Time
Track your phone usage—most people have more time than they realize. Replace some scrolling with reading.
Read in Small Blocks
You don't need hours. 15-20 minutes daily adds up to 20+ books annually for average readers.
Capture Dead Time
Waiting rooms, commutes, lunch breaks, morning coffee—these moments add up.
Audiobooks Count
Listen while driving, exercising, cooking, or doing chores. Many books work well in audio format.
Create a Reading Ritual
Read at the same time daily. Before bed, with morning coffee, or during lunch become automatic.
Choosing What to Read
Life's Too Short for Bad Books
Give books 50-100 pages. If they don't engage you, move on. There's no obligation to finish.
Mix It Up
- Serious and light
- Fiction and non-fiction
- Different genres and perspectives
- Classic and contemporary
Follow Your Interests
Read what genuinely interests you, not what you think you "should" read. Passion sustains the habit.
Get Recommendations
- Friends with similar tastes
- Curated book lists
- Author interviews mentioning influences
- Goodreads and book clubs
Building the Habit
Always Have a Book
Keep a book (or e-reader) with you always. Opportunities to read appear unexpectedly.
Set Reading Goals
Annual book goals (Goodreads reading challenge) or pages per day—whatever motivates you.
Track Your Reading
Lists of books read provide motivation and useful reference for recommendations.
Create a Reading Environment
Comfortable reading spot with good lighting. Keep it phone-free.
Reduce Decision Fatigue
Maintain a "to be read" list. When you finish one book, the next is already queued.
Retention and Application
Take Notes
Mark passages, write margin notes, or keep a reading journal. Engagement improves retention.
Discuss Books
Join book clubs or discuss reads with friends. Conversation deepens understanding.
Review After Finishing
Write brief summaries of key takeaways. This consolidates learning.
Apply Non-Fiction
After reading about a topic, try applying concepts. Knowledge without application fades quickly.
Getting Started
- Commit to reading 15 minutes daily
- Pick a book that genuinely interests you
- Attach reading to an existing habit
- Reduce competing screen time
- Track and celebrate progress
Reading supports continuous learning and provides a healthy alternative to excess screen time. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your reading habits transform.
