Manage your time to read more

Well, hello! It’s been a minute since I’ve made a post like this. This was a request from a wonderful blogger (not sure if they’d be comfortable with me mentioning them) and I’m going to try my best to share how I manage my time to make room for reading. I tend to read and finish multiple books in a week and I’ve found these techniques to be the most helpful and effective.

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So, How do I manage my time so I’m able to read more?

One – Set a schedule

Don’t be so strict with this one. Feeling like you need to read never helps. Set a goal like reading 30 minutes to an hour (or more) depending on your schedule. I usually wake up at around 8 AM on week days. My goal is to read for at least 2 hours in the morning and an hour or so in the evenings. This is a part of my routine so it never feels like a chore. Find a time that you’re comfortable with or when you feel like reading the most. Even if your goal is to read 50 pages a day, do it! no amount is too little.

Two – Mix up my reading

If I’m reading multiple books that are the same format I usually feel unmotivated. Don’t ask me how, I haven’t figured that out yet. I don’t just mean format wise, I also mean genre and book length. For example, I picked up a classic recently but also had a graphic novel and a middle grade title or two on the side. Try variation. This might not work for everyone but the best way to find out is to try.

Three – Read what I’m in the mood to read

I tried a different tactic at the start of this year. I usually feel pretty overwhelmed when I see everyone reading a certain book. I usually just read whatever I have on me but sometimes the hype can get to me. This year I decided to not pay attention to any of that. I do add the books I’m interested in but I’m not racing to read them at the same moment. Mood reading has proven to be the best thing for me. Not only am I reading so much faster but I’m also comfortable with what I’ve picked up and decided to read. Reading is not a race. The books aren’t going anywhere and you can pick them up now or 20 years from now. Read what you love and focus on that.

Four – Read multiple books

I personally prefer to read between 2-3 books at once. Sometimes I read more. My brain is just wired that way and this might not work for everyone and that’s okay. Sometimes I find I’m not in the mood in the moment for a certain type of book so I pick up one of the others.

Five – Read before going to bed

Part of my time management scheme. I read multiple times a day and if I can push for most of the day then I do that. However sometimes I get busy and can’t but reading before bed is usually a fixed thing. I make myself a cup of tea and read for at least an hour before sleeping. This is relaxing, especially when you set the tone (keeping a blanket near, making a warm drink, or setting a candle). It’s one of the simplest pleasures.

Six – Keep a book on hand

This is also time management in a way. Have a commute that might take some time? or have an appointment that you’ll have to wait for? Squeeze in some reading (if you’re in the mood). I always have a book on me. Even if I might not actually have time to read I just prefer to have one available. Audiobooks, ebooks, physical books, anything!

Seven – DNF when I need to

Don’t push yourself to finish something you aren’t enjoying or in the mood for. I’ve learned to dnf only recently. It was something I just couldn’t do before. If I’m already half way through a book I might push through but if I really can’t do it then I just won’t. You should be enjoying what you’re reading not struggling. Plus, this is a way to avoid a reading slump *shivers*

Eight – Don’t push when in a reading slump

I’ve done this way too many times. If you need a break from reading or a slump is approaching then take a break! Taking a break is good. Find something else to do until you’re ready to read again. The last time I went through this I stopped reading for about a week or two and caught up with some shows and tried some different hobbies. Went perfectly.

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How do you manage your time?