Seven tips to develop the habit of daily reading

Daily reading is a practice that enriches the mind, broadens horizons, fosters personal growth, and provides various benefits. However, incorporating this habit into our daily routine can seem challenging in an interconnected world full of distractions. Below, we’ll share some tips for developing the habit of daily reading.

Topics of interest

In order to start and develop the habit of daily reading, it is advisable to choose topics of interest that really generate satisfaction and enthusiasm, since if topics or genres are chosen that are not of interest to us, this activity can become an “obligation” instead of a moment of enjoyment, learning and pleasure.
Choosing a topic that we are truly passionate about will generate greater commitment, interest, curiosity, and enthusiasm, which will allow the reading habit to be more sustainable and fun.

Create a space for reading

To develop the habit of daily reading, it is advisable to create a space to carry out this activity, since when a special place is chosen to read, a psychological connection is generated with a specific physical space, l or which contributes to reinforcing the habit of reading and facilitates the adoption of this activity just by approaching said place.

It’s recommended that this designated place be comfortable, quiet, and free of distractions, as this provides a greater incentive to start reading and helps us increase our concentration level. For example, reading in the dining room, sitting in an uncomfortable chair surrounded by other family members or other people, isn’t the same as reading in a private room, sitting on a comfortable sofa.

Starts with little reading time

When you want to start a habit, it’s advisable to begin with short routines, such as the two-minute rule (from the book Atomic Habits). In this case, to develop the habit of daily reading, it’s advisable to start with just a few minutes of reading, rather than overwhelming ourselves with the idea of reading for one or two hours on a specific topic.

It is generally advisable to start with a reading time of between 5-10 minutes a day, as it is a more manageable period of time and gives the person greater confidence (in the initial stages), which will allow them to gradually increase this time as the person feels more comfortable.

Another option is to read by page count, for example, instead of reading 10 or 20 pages, we can start by reading 1 or 2 pages; this way, we can overcome the “initial resistance” when starting a reading session.

Set a schedule

It is advisable to establish a defined schedule, which can be adjusted to our daily routine, since in this way we can encourage consistency and turn reading into a daily priority, which will allow us to associate that time of day with the habit of reading.

It is advisable to set a specific time of day to read. For example, at 9 pm or before bedtime, this way we can develop a rhythm that will allow us to develop a solid and lasting reading habit.

Have a book at hand

It is always advisable to have a book at hand, as this way you can take advantage of the free time that arises during the day and turn it into short, enjoyable, and productive reading sessions.
When we talk about having a book on hand, we mean that you can carry a printed book, an e-book, a magazine, or a reading app that you can use to carry out a reading session during a break or while waiting in line.

Technology support

While a “digital diet” may be necessary for many people to increase productivity, we must emphasize that the proper use of technology can be an excellent support for developing the habit of daily reading. This is because technology can help us make reading more accessible and adaptable to our lifestyles and routines.

People can rely on technology, as it allows them to carry practically an entire library in their pocket, making it easier to enjoy a short reading session anytime, anywhere. Through technology, people have access to audiobooks, e-readers, and reading apps, in addition to helping them monitor their progress, receive alerts/reminders, and recommendations for other books related to their topic of interest.

Regarding e-books and reading apps, one of the most recommended is Amazon’s Kindle, which allows you to adjust the background (sepia, gray, or white) and font size. On the other hand, regarding audiobooks, one of the most recommended apps is Audible (also from Amazon).

Reading Club

To develop the habit of daily reading, joining a book club is recommended, as it’s a way to stay motivated and make reading more engaging and social. By joining a book club, people can turn the activity of solitary reading into a shared experience, in addition to generating greater commitment, accountability, motivation, and inspiration about reading.

It’s advisable to join a book club, as people who participate in these groups feel more motivated, especially when they exchange ideas or comment on a specific book, which encourages them to stay more engaged with reading.

What do you think about this topic? Would you like to learn more about how to develop the habit of daily reading?

If you have any questions or queries, you can write them below (comments section).