How To Make Reading A Habit (Without Feeling As If You're Studying For An Exam!)

Let's be real- Who doesn't dream of becoming a reader? We all wish to curl up with a book, on a cozy night, and have a cup of hot chocolate, looking all intellectual and mysterious. We all know reading has got such an aesthetic vibe to it that everyone wishes to start. But what actually happens in reality? We read for 5 minutes and scroll Instagram for 45 minutes, or probably read one paragraph before giving up and falling asleep.

So, how do you actually become a reader without making it feel as if it's a punishment? Well, as a 13 year old who has had a passion for books since as long as I can remember, I can surely give you some tips!

1- Start Small 

Nobody is asking you to finish a 500 page thick novel in a week. Instead, if you are someone, who wants to start reading, start reading for 5 to 10 minutes a day. 5 pages a day is enough if you are new to books. Remember, do not force yourself. Reading is like workout- start with baby steps, and in no time, you will start flexing your book muscles!

2- Read What You Actually Like

Stop trying to read what looks smart and popular. Read what you like. If you like political non fiction such as 1984 or Mein Kampf, go for it! If romance is your thing, read that genre! Even dark, graphic, thriller novels count. The goal is to enjoy it, not to suffer. If you read, what you actually like, who knows, you might even complete a book within a day!

3- Always Have A Book Nearby

If you have a dusty pile of books in a corner of your house you never even mind cleaning, you would never be able to get into reading. Have a book nearby, always! Beside your pillow, in your bag, or even in your phone (You can try e-books if you can never get off your phone!) If a book is within your reach, you'll actually care to pick it up and read it.

4- Minimize Distractions

If you aren't familiar with books yet, read them without your phone buzzing with notifications. Read in a quiet, cozy corner of your house where there is no one to distract you. Pro tip: If you have a short attention span and are vulnerable to get distracted, read fast paced books. 

5- Try Different Formats

Don't like paperbacks? Read e-books. Hate e-books? Try audiobooks. The form doesn't matter. Just don't end up watching an adapted movie of the book. Every reader is gonna tell this to you- "Books are  always better than the movies!"

6- Replace Screen-Time With Reading-Time

Next time you're about to binge-watch a show, or mindlessly scroll on your phone after a long, monotonous day, try picking up a book this time. If the book is interesting enough, your phone or that show won't be interesting anymore.

7- Ditch A Book If You're Not Enjoying It

Reading is not studying. You're not a boring nerd if you read. Nobody is forcing you to finish that book if it bores you to the death. Read another. Maybe try reading that book again the next time! Reading should be fun, you shouldn't feel as if you're being punished if you're reading a book

This is it! No complicated goals. No target of 'reading 50 books in a year', no pressure! Just a book, your cozy blanket, a cup of coffee and some fun! These are just some simple steps that can make you a reader, and the smartest person in the crowd!

Now, stop reading this blog and go pick up a book! 👀 📙