How to Read Books When You’re Busy
At the time I’m writing this, I have 3 children ages 5, 2 and 6 months. Since the birth of my third son, I’ve read 17 books. This is a big deal because last year I read a total of 5 books, one of which was less than 100 pages. I decided I wanted to up my reading this year because I missed the outlet I used to love in my teens. I spent most of my early 20s reading self-help books, reading one fiction book a year (and that’s a generous number). I’ve missed getting lost in a story—falling in love with characters—dreaming of traveling to a place beautifully described in pages.
I wanted a stronger outlet beyond unwinding with social media or television. I made myself a goal to read 15 books this year.
However, once I figured out how to read while being a stay at home mom with three small kids, I surpassed that goal. My new goal is 30 books this year. I am obsessed with reading. I read at least 3 books a month (one audiobook, one book on my Kindle, & one hard copy book) .
If you’re wanting to read for fun but can’t imagine finding the time with your hectic life schedule, let me share what helped me get into the habit.
Choose the right genre for you. As a former English Literature major, I turned my nose up at the “contemporary romance” genre. At 31 years old, I’m admitting it for all to see…it’s my favorite genre. It’s so fun to get caught up in the rom-com drama. I don’t even blush anymore at the spicy scenes, I’m a married woman. I can handle it.
Read 10 pages a day minimum. Find your down time—while you’re eating, when your kids have independent play. Drop the chores and let yourself relax with reading. Split your day with chores in the morning and reading in the afternoon. Perhaps, schedule it in after your kids go to bed. I fall asleep so much better after read instead of scrolling on my phone. Make the goal of reading 10 pages each day and you’ll find yourself reading more.
Consider Audiobooks. I used to think audiobooks didn’t count as reading. I disagree with this now. Audiobooks are a godsend for busy parents. When I’m folding laundry or washing dishes, I’m listening to an audiobook. I listen when I’m in the car running errands too. Or in the evening when I’m taking my bath (yes, I’m also obsessed with baths). I utilize the Libby App through my local library. It’s a free resource and a great way to support your library. Win, win.
Use Goodreads. This site is a great resource for tracking the books you’ve read. Read reviews from other readers. You can find recommendations on what books to read next based off your reading history. It also supplies healthy competition with yourself with the yearly Reading Challenge. I enjoy tracking how fast it takes me to finish a book. You can also connect with friends who also use the site to see what they’re reading for inspiration on what to read next.
Get a Kindle. I’ll admit it, I was a snob about eReaders. I resisted using one because I prefer the feel of an actual book. I decided to give it a “try” and I love it. It’s light and easy to grab and go. I always carry it in my purse. It’s ideal to take on a trip. You don’t have to worry about torn pages or water damage either. Mine is waterproof. I have the Kindle Paperwhite. I chose this one because I like that it’s just for reading. I don’t have to wrestle the urge to check a notification while I’m reading with it.
Always bring a book/tablet with you. Don’t leave the house without your book. Seriously, if you do, you’ll find yourself reaching for your phone to occupy those inevitable “waits.” If you want to read more, you need to train yourself to choose your book over your phone.
Utilize your local library/Libby App. If you’re resistant to reading because books cost money—that isn’t a good excuse. Your local library is waiting for you. Dust off that library card and go shopping—for FREE books. If you have a tablet or prefer audiobooks, download the Libby App. The library’s loan dates are a great way to give you a little extra pressure to finish the book. Return dates are between 14-21 days, with the option to renew your loan.
Follow Reese’s Book club and Meagan’s Book Club. This is where I go to find quality book recommendations. A book with Reese’s stamp of approval holds a lot of weight in the book world. You’re bound to find a well-written, thought provoking story. I haven’t been disappointed by her recommendations so far. Sure, some genres aren’t my go-to but if Reese’s team says it’s worth a shot, I trust them. I also enjoy Meagan’s book suggestions. The books she shares are from my favorite genres. She also hasn’t steered me wrong, yet.
Form or Join a Book Club with friends. I recently joined a book club. I joined a short lived one about 7 years ago. I love the dissecting book with others to expand a theme or debate a sticky topic. This brings books to life and moves them beyond your own imagination. This is also a way to venture into new genres. You might never have picked up that sci-fi book otherwise. Again, deadlines to finish a book help motivate me to make reading a priority.
