10 Tips to Build a Reading Habit in Adulthood

I know that in adult life between work, responsibilities, studying and family, books often end up at the bottom of the list. But if you want to get back into reading or start a daily reading habit, here are some simple and practical tips to help you do it without giving up.

1. 💜 Start by looking for topics that you are passionate about such as thrillers, sci-fi, romance, personal growth or comics. Choose what you genuinely enjoy.
2. 🧚 Once you know the genre you like, find a book that suits you. I know you want to start with the biggest book out there, but maybe save that for later. Start with a short book, around 150 to 250 pages is ideal. Little by little is better that start a long reading and leave it. You want it to be achievable and not overwhelm you.
3. 🌱 Find the perfect spot in your home where you can feel relaxed and comfortable.
4. ☎️ Avoid distractions. Your TV. Your phone is the main one distractor, so I suggest you to set it on silent mode to avoid notifications. Or music that makes you hard to concentrate.
5. 🕯️ Make reading a ritual. Make your favorite drink, light a candle, sit down and relax. This is a time for yourself. Treat it like a date with yourself.
6. 🌃 Try to read at the same time everyday and you will see it will become a habit more easily. Personally, I read at night before going to bed. It relaxes me and helps me fall asleep faster. But you can also do it in the morning with your coffee, especially if you want to focus, take notes, and start your day with energy and clarity.
7. 🏞️ If you like reading outside your home, it’s great idea to carry your book in a book sleeve to protect it from potential damage. Try to find a place outside that inspires you.
8. 🚎 You can also take a book with you whenever you leave the house. Keep it in your bag, so you can read while waiting, on the train or bus, or during a break. This is where a book sleeve becomes your best friend to prevent scratches or bends inside your bag with the stuff you carry in your bag.
9. 📚 Join a book club. Exist various online platforms where you can find book recommendations and more people interested on the same books that you read and can motivate you to share what you’re reading. Public libraries often run reading challenges or book clubs during summer or for special events too.
10. 🎁 Last but not least, stop seeing reading as a chore. See it as a gift you give yourself, a way to disconnect from the fast-paced world, slow down, and practice self-love.

And you?

Do you have a reading ritual? What books helped you fall in love with reading? If not, I know developing the habit of reading may look challenging but I believe that as soon as you consider giving yourself the time to read little by little you will be rewarded.