We’re sharing some tips on how to read more if that’s one of your goals!
Hello friends! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. What were you doing? We met up with friends for sushi, celebrated Pilot and P’s birthdays with family (we’ll be out of town for their actual birthdays), and had the usual combination of ballet and basketball. I also have some time on me sauna blanket – Went from 105 last weekend to FREEZING this weekend!
For today’s post I wanted to talk a little about reading. A couple of years ago, I decided to read more often. It’s one of my favorite hobbies, but I didn’t spend much time reading. I read maybe one book every month, but I was so absorbed in work, mom life, and household chores that I couldn’t imagine reading more than that. I started making a conscious effort to spend more time reaching and was able to read 3-5 books a month.
Maybe one day I’ll take photos of reading content in mismatched comfy clothes and a weird bun 😉
Lately I’ve gone back to my old ways. I’ve been feeling a little exhausted and overwhelmed in general, and I’m using my *downtime* to mindlessly scroll (which isn’t really relaxing) instead of reading. So this post is a little reminder for me, but also for my friends who want to read more.
How to read more
Why reading is important for moms
Reading is extremely important for personal growth, relaxation and mental well-being, but the fact is that many of us don’t have the time or can’t find it. Moms in their 30s and 40s may struggle with reading, especially since so much of the day is spent caring for kids, juggling work, household chores, and not having very long blocks of time for much of anything. I think it’s important to think of reading as a form of self-care if it’s something you enjoy. It’s worth the time!
Here are some of my tips and things I’ve learned:
1. Set realistic reading goals
Set realistic goals, even 10 minutes a day. This can make a big difference!
Also, start with a smaller goal, like one book per month.
2. Make the most of audiobooks
Audiobooks are PERFECT for multitasking. You can listen to audiobooks while you do housework, drive, exercise, or go for a walk.
I’m a big fan of Audible and there are free library apps as well.
Listening to books while cooking or folding laundry makes these tasks much more enjoyable and is a perfect quality time for reading.
3. Create a morning or evening reading ritual
Try to set aside 10 to 15 minutes in the morning or evening to read, as part of your daily routine.
Like any other habit, cultivating the habit of reading can improve consistency. I’m also a big fan of building habits. Read at around the same time every day, like 10 minutes when you wake up or before going to bed.
I find reading before bed to have a great calming effect and I definitely prefer this over scrolling through social media. The blue light from our phones can also hinder the production of meltonin, which can make it difficult to rest and get a restful sleep.
4. Carry a book wherever you go
Carry a physical book (or a Light or phone app) can allow you to fit in reading at random times, such as waiting at school pickup, doctor’s appointments, etc. A portable reading habit can turn empty time into productive reading time.
I’m a big fan of myself Light And I love that it’s separate from my phone. My phone distracts me and I’m tempted to scroll through Instagram. My Kindle is for reading only.
5. Use digital reading apps and e-books
If you’re the type of person who can focus on reading on your phone, apps like Kindle or Libby allow you to read on your phone or tablet at any time. It’s also helpful that they sync between devices, which can make it easier to pick up where you left off.
I also love that you can adjust the brightness or font size to suit tired eyes.
6. Trade TV time for reading time
The reality is that we can all read more if we swap reading for television or time on social media.
Try replacing an episode of a TV show with a chapter from a book. This is an easy way to spend more time reading without drastically changing your schedule.
7. Set reading challenges or join a book club
Online reading challenges (like Goodreads) or mom-focused book clubs help make reading a fun and social activity. This can help with accountability and motivation to read more regularly.
8. Read short books or novellas
Try shorter books or novellas if time is a limiting factor.
Finishing shorter books can create a sense of accomplishment, which motivates more frequent reading.
If you have a favorite short book or novella, let me know in the comments!
9. Use social media to follow book recommendations and reviews
Book influencers or Instagram accounts can help you find books that fit your interests. For kids, I always think that ALL reading is good reading, even if it’s a graphic novel or something without much substance. The same goes for us! If you like murder mysteries, enjoy! If you like the raunchiest fairy smut, live.your.life. If you want to read Harry Potter again when you’re an adult, do it! Read whatever you enjoy and make you happy.
I love that online accounts can give you brief information about books and you can decide if you want to read. (I love book meeting and Nicole Pearce But I know there are probably a million book influencers!)
10. Involve your kids and make it a family activity
Try reading with your kids, making it family time. He also sets a good example. For a long time I avoided reading in front of children because I always felt like I needed to do something active. I realized that it’s GOOD for them to #1 see me take time to relax and #2 take time to read as an adult. I want both for them, but they won’t do it unless they see it as an example.
Younger children benefit from a little “quiet time” each day, even if they are too old to nap. While children are reading, coloring, or doing homework, this can be the best time to read.
11. Try the book of the month
This has absolutely encouraged me to read more and introduces me to authors and genres that I don’t usually gravitate towards. You can check it out with my referral link here!
This is a friendly reminder that small steps can make a big difference in reading habits. It’s a beautiful act of self-care and I feel like a happier, more balanced person when I take the time to read.
So, tell me friends: when do you read each day? What are you reading right now?
xoxo
gina
