Share some tips on how to read more if that’s one of your goals!
Hello friends! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. what did you do We met friends for sushi, celebrated Pilot and P’s birthdays with family (we’ll be out of town for their actual birthdays), and had the usual combination of ballet and basketball. I also have some time on mine sauna blanket – went from 105 last weekend to FREZING this weekend!
For today’s post, I wanted to talk a little about reading. A few years ago, I made it a goal to read more often. It’s one of my favorite hobbies, but I didn’t spend much time reading. I read maybe a book a month, but I was so caught up with work, mom life, and errands that I couldn’t imagine reading more than that. I started making a conscious effort to make more time to catch up and was able to read 3-5 books a month.
Maybe one day I’ll take pictures of reading content in mismatched knick-knacks and the odd bun 😉
Lately, I’ve been back to my old ways. I’m feeling a bit thin and stressed in general and I’m using *my time* to mindlessly move around (which isn’t really relaxing) instead of reading. So this post is a little reminder for myself and also for my friends out there who want to read more.
How to read more
Why reading is important for moms
Reading is extremely important for personal growth, relaxation and mental well-being, but the thing is, many of us don’t have time or can’t find the time. Moms in their 30s and 40s can have a particularly hard time reading, especially since so much of the day is spent taking care of kids, juggling errands, and not having much time for much. I think it’s important to think of reading as a form of self-care if it’s something you enjoy. Worth your time!
Here are some of the tips and things I’ve learned:
1. Set realistic reading goals
Set realistic goals, even 10 minutes a day. This can make a huge difference!
Also, start with a smaller goal, like one book a month.
2. Make the most of audiobooks
Audiobooks are PERFECT for multitasking. You can listen to audiobooks while you run errands, drive, exercise, or take walks.
I’m a big fan of Audible and there are also free library apps.
Listening to books while cooking or folding laundry makes those chores much more enjoyable and is perfect quality reading time.
3. Create a morning or evening reading ritual
Try to set aside 10-15 minutes in the morning or evening to read as part of a daily routine.
Like any other habit, cultivating the habit of reading can improve consistency. I’m also a big fan of the stacking habit. Read around the same time each day, such as 10 minutes when you wake up or before you go to bed.
I find reading before bed to be very calming and definitely go for that instead of scrolling through social media. The blue light from our phones can also block the production of melatonin, which can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
4. Carry a book with you everywhere
Bringing a physical book (or a I turn on or phone app) can allow you to fit reading into random pockets of time, such as waiting at school pickups, doctor appointments, etc. A portable reading habit can turn idle time into productive reading time.
I’m a big fan of mine I turn on and I like that it’s separate from my phone. My phone pulls me away and I’m tempted to scroll through Instagram. My Kindle is read-only.
5. Use digital reading apps and e-books
If you’re the type of person who can focus on reading on your phone, apps like Kindle or Libby let you read on your phone or tablet anytime. It’s also helpful to sync between devices, which can make it easier to pick up where you left off.
I also like that you can adjust the brightness or font size to accommodate tired eyes.
6. Swap TV time for reading time
The reality is that we can all read more if we trade reading for TV or social media time.
Try replacing an episode of a TV show with a chapter of a book. This is an easy way to fit in more reading time without dramatically changing your schedule.
7. Set reading challenges or join a Book Club
Online reading challenges (like Goodreads) or mom-focused book clubs help make reading a fun and social activity. This can help with accountability and motivation to read more regularly.
8. Read Short Books or Novels
Try shorter books or novellas if time is a limiting factor.
Completing shorter books can create a sense of accomplishment, which motivates more frequent reading.
If you have favorite short books or novellas, write them in the comments!
9. Use social media to follow book recommendations and reviews
Book influencers or Instagram accounts can help you find books that fit your interests. For kids, I always think to myself that ALL reading is good reading, even if it’s a graphic novel or something without much substance. The same applies to us! If you like murder mysteries, enjoy! You like the dirtiest fairy, live.your.life. If you want to re-read Harry Potter as an adult, do it! Read whatever you like that makes you happy.
I like that online accounts can give you little information about books and you can decide if you want to read. (love Huddle Book and Nicole Pierce but I know there are probably a million book influencers out there!)
10. Get your kids involved and make it a family activity
Try reading with your kids, which turns it into family time. It also sets a good example. For so long, I avoided reading in front of children because I always felt like I should be doing something active. I realized it’s GOOD for them to see me #1 taking time to relax and #2 making time to read as an adult. I want both of those things for them, but they won’t do it unless they see it as an example.
Younger children benefit from a little “quiet” every day, even if they are too old to sleep. While children are reading, coloring or doing homework, this can be the best time to read.
11. Try the Book of the Month
This totally encouraged me to read more and introduced me to authors and genres that I’m not normally drawn to. You can check it out with my referral link here!
This is a friendly reminder that small steps can make a huge difference in your reading habits. It’s a wonderful act of self-care, and I feel like a happier, more balanced person when I take the time to read.
So tell me, friends: when do you read every day? what are you reading now??
xoxo
Gina
