Transform Your Reading Habits with This 4-Minute Technique
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Chapter 1: Embrace the Reading Habit
The right mindset can transform your reading experience.
Many people often wonder, "Which book should I pick up first?" or "What books are truly worthwhile?" The key to reading more often lies in making it a seamless part of your everyday life. As bestselling author Ryan Holiday wisely puts it:
“The secret to reading a lot of books starts with not viewing it as a chore. Reading should feel as instinctive as eating or breathing. It’s not just something you do when you feel like it; it should become second nature.”
Consider integrating reading into your daily routine. For instance, unwind on your couch with a book each evening. Listen to audiobooks while grocery shopping, or read during your commute instead of scrolling through your phone.
It’s really that straightforward to read more in 2023! With the convenience of audiobooks and eBooks, you no longer need to carry a book everywhere.
Personally, I’ve experienced this shift; last year, I completed 150 books and aim to surpass that in 2023. The secret? A simple yet powerful strategy that reshaped my reading habits.
Section 1.1: Set Clear Reading Goals
Tim Ferriss poses an insightful question at the start of any new venture: “What would this look like if it were simple?” I believe in breaking down lofty ambitions into manageable tasks. For example, if your goal is to read 100 books this year, you only need to tackle two books weekly. By reading one physical book and one audiobook every week, you’ll effortlessly hit your target.
Subsection 1.1.1: Start Small to Build Momentum
Darren Hardy, the author of The Compound Effect, emphasizes consistency as the cornerstone of achieving and maintaining momentum. Many individuals set out to read lengthy tomes at the year’s start, but this can often feel overwhelming, leading them to abandon their goals in favor of binge-watching shows.
Instead, consider beginning your reading journey with shorter books. This approach will help you feel a sense of achievement as you progress, motivating you to gradually tackle longer reads.
Section 1.2: Read Multiple Books at Once
Virginia Woolf famously juggled six books simultaneously, believing it was the best way to fully appreciate literature. One book alone can feel limiting; diversifying your reading can enhance your experience. You won’t always be in the mood for a fast-paced thriller or a heavy classic. Reading various books at the same time allows you to stay engaged, no matter your mood.
Chapter 2: Prioritize Enjoyable Reads
Oscar Wilde famously avoided dull literature, stating, “If you cannot find joy in rereading a book, it’s not worth your time.” This philosophy resonates deeply; our time is precious, and there’s no reason to waste it on uninspiring reads.
So, if a book fails to captivate you, don’t hesitate to set it aside.
Conclusion: The Power of Attitude
Regardless of my situation—whether I’m stuck in traffic or waiting for a flight—I’ll always have a book handy and will carve out moments to engage with it.
Remember, your attitude towards reading is crucial. “It’s about reshaping your priorities so that reading feels like an intrinsic part of your identity,” says Ryan Holiday. “When this happens, you’ll become the person others ask: How do you manage to read so much? And your answer will simply be: I just do.”