Acquire the reading habit Reading is much more than just an activity; it is an open door to knowledge, imagination and personal development. However, many people find it difficult to establish this practice in their daily lives due to lack of time, lack of concentration or simply because they have not found that spark that connects them with books. This article will provide you with detailed advice and effective strategies to create a reading habit in a pleasant and lasting way.
Choose a book that is to your liking
To begin, it is essential to select a book that really awakens your interest and fits your preferences. Are you passionate about fantasy? Do you prefer a thriller full of suspense? Or maybe you enjoy a romance novel or historical. Exploring a variety of genres will help you discover what kind of book will hook you from the start. In your local library or a trusted bookstore, you can receive personalized recommendations; don't be afraid to ask for help and get advice.
An excellent alternative to avoid getting frustrated if a book does not meet your expectations is to resort to LibrariesIn most cases, you can borrow as many books as you like at no cost. This will allow you to experiment with different types of reading without worrying about the money invested, thus removing a potential barrier.
Reserve a little time a day to read
Establish a daily moment Reading is essential. Even if you have a busy schedule, you will find that a few minutes a day can make a big difference. Choose a time that is special to you: while you are taking a break from work, coffee in the morning, during a work break or before going to sleep. The important thing is not so much the time, but rather that it becomes a constant habit.
To start with, with just 10 minutes a day may be enough. Little by little, you can increase this time, allowing reading to fit comfortably into your daily routine. Also, create a pleasant space where you can relax, such as a cozy corner with good lighting and no distractions. Keep your mobile phone or other electronic devices away so that the experience is fully immersive.
Write it down in your calendar or app
If you usually plan your daily tasks in a calendar or app, consider adding your reading space. By writing it down, you will be reinforcing your commitment and will be more likely to follow through. You can also use visual reminders: Place the book you are reading in a visible place, such as the nightstand or near the coffee maker, depending on the time of day you choose to read.
This trick is especially useful during the first few weeks, when you are just getting into the habit. According to some experts, it takes at least 21 days to form a habit, so these little visual reminders can be a big help.
Share your readings
Reading can be even more enriching when it is sharesTalking to friends or family about the books you're reading will not only strengthen your personal connections, but it will also motivate you to keep reading. Plus, there are plenty of options to connect with reading communities, such as Goodreads o Babelio, where you can exchange opinions and discover recommendations.
Another option is to join a book clubThese groups often read a book together and then discuss it, which can be a very stimulating and educational experience. Some also organize joint activities, which makes reading a social act.
Create your ideal reading space
Un adequate space Reading can make the difference between a relaxing read and one filled with distractions. If you have the opportunity, dedicate a specific place in your home for reading. This corner can include a comfortable armchair, a warm lamp and, if you prefer, elements that inspire you, such as scented candles or soft background music. Not only will this make you enjoy reading more, but you will also associate this space with a moment of tranquility and pleasure.
If you need more ideas to design a perfect reading corner, we recommend this article: How to create a cozy reading corner.
Experiment with different formats
Nowadays, Options to enjoy reading are endless. You can opt for physical books, ebooks or even audiobooksEach format has its advantages. For example, ebooks are ideal for travel due to their portability and storage capacity, while audiobooks allow you to enjoy a good story while exercising or doing household chores.
Digital platforms such as Kindle unlimited o Storytel They offer a wide variety of titles to suit all tastes, making it easy to access books anytime, anywhere. This is especially helpful if you have a busy schedule.
Set achievable goals
A very useful trick to establish the reading habit is to pay attention small goalsThese can be daily, like reading at least five pages, or monthly, like completing a book in 30 days. Achievable goals will keep you motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment. Over time, you can set more ambitious goals.
If you find it motivating, keep a log of your readings. You can do this in a notebook, a spreadsheet or online platforms. Seeing your progress will encourage you to continue reading.
Start with short books or stories you already know.
If you're just starting to get into the habit, consider starting with short books or stories you're already familiar with. This reduces the pressure of tackling a long book and allows you to feel more confident about your progress. For example, if you enjoyed a movie based on a book, you could read the original work to dig deeper into the story.
Remember that there is no “rule” about what you should or shouldn’t read. The important thing is that you enjoy the experience and find books that really interest you. motivate.
Discovering the habit of reading is like opening a window to a world full of possibilities. With patience, perseverance and the right advice, you can transform this activity into a daily pleasure that will enrich your life in many ways. Reading not only feeds the mind, but also the spirit.