Here are the shifts that transformed me from someone who read maybe 5 books a year to someone who now reads 50+:
1. Stop treating reading like homework.
You see you’re allowed to DNF (did not finish) books. You’re allowed to skim the boring parts. You’re allowed to read the ending first if you want. Reading is supposed to be enjoyable, not an obligation. The moment a book feels like a chore, put it down. Life’s too short for books that don’t grip you.
2. Always have three books going at once.
One physical book at home. One audiobook for commutes/chores. One ebook on your phone for waiting rooms. Different moods require different formats. Sometimes I want to hold a book. Sometimes I want someone to read to me while I do dishes. Having options means you’re never “not in the mood to read.”
3. Read before you scroll.
This changed everything. Ten minutes of reading before I check my phone in the morning. Ten minutes before bed instead of doomscrolling. That’s 20 minutes a day, which is roughly a book every two weeks. Just from time I was already spending on my phone learning nothing and feeling worse.
4. Audiobooks count. Period.
People who say audiobooks aren’t “real reading” can fight me. I’ve “read” some of my favorite books while folding laundry, driving, or walking the dog. My brain doesn’t care if the story entered through my eyes or my ears, for me, the experience is the same. Stop gatekeeping and start listening.
5. Keep your next read visible.
I stack my next 3-5 books on my nightstand where I can see them. Visual reminders work. When my current book is finished, the next one is right there and there is no room for decision fatigue, no excuses. Out of sight really is out of mind.
6. Join a book club or find a reading buddy.
Accountability works. Whether it’s an official book club or just texting a friend about what you’re reading, having someone to discuss books with makes you more likely to finish them. Or being on reading groups and pages like @the book nook. Plus, recommendations from people who know your taste >>> random recommendations.
7. Library apps are magic.
Libby and Hoopla give you free access to thousands of ebooks and audiobooks through your library card. They’re free. Instant. No guilt about buying books you might not finish. I’ve saved money and discovered authors I never would have tried if I had to pay upfront.
8. Read multiple books in the same genre back-to-back.
When I’m in a thriller mood, I read 4-5 thrillers in a row. Romance? Same. Memoirs? Binge them. Fighting your mood to read something “different” is exhausting. Lean into what you’re craving and ride the wave.
9. Stop saving books for “the right time.”
There is no perfect moment. You will never be “in the mood” for that dense literary fiction or challenging nonfiction unless you just start it. Some of my favorite books are ones I had to push through the first 50 pages to get into. Give books a chance, but also remember tip number 1: you’re allowed to quit.
10. Track what you read.
I use Goodreads, but a notebook works too. Seeing your progress is motivating. Looking back at what you’ve read feels like an accomplishment. And it helps you notice patterns; oh, I loved all these books, maybe I should read more like them.
Bonus Tip: Please stop feeling guilty about what you read.
Romance? Valid. Thrillers? Valid. Self-help? Valid. You don’t get extra points for reading literary fiction if you hate it.
Read what brings you joy, what teaches you something, what helps you escape. Reading is reading. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad about your choices.
I’ll leave the light on for you! 📚💡