5 Ways to Improve Your Reading Habit (and Read More Books This Year)
Do you wish you could read more books but struggle to find the time or motivation? You're not alone! In our fast-paced world, it’s easy for reading to take a backseat to work, social life, and screen time. But the good news? Developing a strong reading habit doesn’t have to be hard. Here are five simple and effective ways to read more books this year!
1. Set Realistic Reading Goals
One of the biggest reasons people stop reading is that they set goals that are too ambitious. Instead of aiming to read 100 books in a year, start small:
✅ Choose a number that feels doable—even if it’s just 1 book a month.
✅ Use the "20-page rule"—commit to reading at least 20 pages per day.
✅ Join a reading challenge—apps like Goodreads, StoryGraph, or Bookly allow you to set annual goals and track progress.
📌 Try this: Set a goal to read just 10 minutes before bed or during your morning coffee—you’ll be surprised how quickly books add up!
2. Always Have a Book With You
The easiest way to read more? Make books accessible so you can squeeze in reading time throughout the day.
📖 Carry a physical book in your bag for long waits, commutes, or lunch breaks.
🎧 Listen to audiobooks while driving, working out, or doing chores (Audible & Libby are great options!).
📱 Download eBooks on your phone or Kindle so you always have a book on hand.
📌 Try this: Swap 10 minutes of social media scrolling for 10 minutes of reading—you’ll finish books so much faster!
🔗 Recommended Resource: Kindle Unlimited | Audible Free Trial |
3. Create a Cozy & Distraction-Free Reading Space
Your environment plays a huge role in your reading habits. Create a space that makes you WANT to read!
🛋️ Find a comfy reading spot—a quiet nook, a cozy armchair, or even a park bench.
💡 Use warm lighting—soft lamps or book lights make reading more inviting.
📵 Minimize distractions—put your phone on "Do Not Disturb" mode while reading.
📌 Try this: Light a book-scented candle, grab a warm drink, and dedicate 30 minutes to reading without interruptions.
🔗 Recommended Resource: Bookish Candles | Cozy Reading Nook Ideas
4. Join a Book Club or Reading Community
Reading is more fun when shared with others! Being part of a book club keeps you accountable and introduces you to books you might not pick up on your own.
📅 Join a local or online book club—Facebook groups, Reddit, or Bookstagram communities are great places to start.
📖 Follow "buddy reading" trends—where you read the same book as a friend and discuss it together.
🗣️ Engage with bookish communities—talk about books on social media, share reviews, and follow #BookTok or #Bookstagram trends.
📌 Try this: Start a monthly book swap with friends or coworkers—it’s a fun and free way to get new books!
5. Make Reading a Habit (and Reward Yourself!)
Consistency is key! The more you incorporate reading into your daily routine, the easier it becomes.
⏳ Pair reading with an existing habit—read while drinking coffee, before bed, or during lunch breaks.
🎯 Use a habit tracker—apps like Bookly or a printable reading journal can help you stay on track.
🏆 Reward yourself—treat yourself to a new book, a fancy bookmark, or a cozy reading night when you reach a goal.
📌 Try this: Set up a "reading jar"—for every book you finish, put $5 in a jar and use it to buy a special book at the end of the year!
🔗 Recommended Resource: | Printable Reading Journal
Final Thoughts: Start Small & Stay Consistent!
Reading more books doesn’t require drastic life changes. By setting realistic goals, making reading more accessible, and creating a cozy routine, you’ll be amazed at how much you can read this year!
