What is that one thing you would like to do more of this year? For me, it is to read more. My reading has primarily focused on parenting books in the last few years, and I consider that professional development for my line of work as a stay-at-home mom. But, I’m finally ready to expand my horizons and give up some of that time for some pleasurable reading, which will include a variety of books that will still include parenting books but also various fiction and Christian non-fiction.
Last year, my greatest obstacle was making time to sit down and truly read a book in hand. This year, I am determined that time will not be the reason that holds me back from doing what I love. If you are anything like me, you probably struggle with carving out time for some important activities in your life. It is the excuse I hear from every mom and dad, stay-at-home or working. The key is to take control of your life, prioritize the things that matter, and make time. As a stay-at-home mom, I have found myself prioritizing my children over everything, and if I learned something in the last five years of doing it full-time, it is that you can still be a good mom even if you are not revolving around them. Pick up that book, take on that new hobby, go out to the gym, and do what it takes to prioritize what you also need for your well-being. If you would ideas to reclaim time this year, check out my recent blog on that topic.
If reading is something you would like to do more of this year, I have four practical tips to make your reading journey easier and possible, so keep reading to learn how.
#1 Audiobooks to the rescue
God bless audiobooks, especially for busy parents on the go. There is much we miss out on when we give up reading due to time constraints. My sister and I were recently talking about reading, and she said audiobooks were just not for her and that listening was just not how she could consume a book. If that is your sentiment, I would like to challenge your views and ask you to hear me out.
I was once in the same boat, making it loud and clear that audiobooks were just not for me. But I had a problem at hand. I knew I was on the go and needed to use the time traveled more productively. To do that, I started to listen to podcasts. When my kids were in the car, we listened to storytime podcasts, and when they were not around, I had my own set of favorites to listen to. Once I got used to listening and learning to absorb content on the go, I switched to books. At the start, I would listen at 1X speed. If I could go slower, I gladly would because I would get hung up on a sentence and want to understand it better. But the fact of the matter is that every sentence in a book need not be dissected and is not necessary for complete understanding. To sum up, it takes practice to listen and follow along for a long duration.
I now listen to books at 1.8X to 2X speed, depending on what kind of books I listen to. If the book requires a deeper understanding, I will bring it down to 1.5X. But it was only with indulgence and practice that I could get to this place. I urge you to try it out and see what a game changer it can be to your reading journey.
I currently use Everand reading subscription. Every book I have wanted to read is available as an e-book, audiobook, or both. The best part is that they also have podcasts, magazines, music sheets, and lots more. (They recently changed their name from Scribd, which may be more familiar to you.) Other reading subscriptions include Audible and Kindle Unlimited (affiliate link).
#2 Bedtime Reading
Make bedtime reading a habit. As parents, we have strict bedtime routines for our children, but have we considered being more organized with our bedtime? Once my kids are in bed, I pretty much have no idea what to do next, so I either head to bed or watch a little TV before I hit the bed. This year, I have decided to make bedtime reading my nighttime closing routine.
A chapter a day, every night, can get you through several books a month. It can be 10 minutes to 30 minutes each night. Pick a book that will keep you coming for more. If the book is too intense in thought, you should keep that for an afternoon read. Whatever you choose to do, remember that a bit of reading every day adds up to a lot. Try it and see how many books fly off your reading shelf to your read pile.
As for me, I currently have two books on my bedside, and I read a chapter from each before bed.
#3 Read Multiple books at once
If you are the kind of person who needs to finish a book before starting another, I suggest you try a new strategy – reading multiple books at the same time. You don’t have to finish a book to start another. For example, have a different book for bedtime reading and another for daytime reading. If you are on the road a lot, I recommend having a third book for the rides. This way, you will get through more books faster than you intended to.
I currently have two audiobooks I’m listening to, two bedside books, and two fiction books I am reading simultaneously. While this may not be the ideal number, try picking 2-3 books to start.
#4 Join a Bookclub
Have you ever considered joining a book club? I was always hesitant due to the pressure of following through on commitments. The good news is that book clubs have evolved. You can now find book club communities online and on social media, and the pressure to read the book quickly is nonexistent. You are accountable to yourself and nobody else. The best part of book clubs is that you’ll get great book selections and company to read along. They even offer reading plans to help you keep up.
I hope you find these tips helpful and feel inspired to read more. Share this blog with a friend and start your new reading journey this year.
What are your goals for reading this year?
