11 Smart Reading Habits for People Who Swear They Have No Time

It is easy to think there is no time for reading, especially when life is hectic. However, reading does not require hours of free time. In fact, there are plenty of ways to fit reading into your schedule, even with a busy day. Small steps can make all the difference, and you will be surprised by how much you can read. 

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Carry a Book Everywhere

Having a book on hand is a simple yet effective way to find time for reading. Whether it is in your bag, on your phone, or in your car, a book is always within reach. You never know when you will have a few spare moments, and this habit allows you to make the most of those times. Whether you are waiting in line, sitting at a bus stop, or on a lunch break, these small windows can add up to substantial reading time.

By carrying a book, you are taking advantage of any downtime in your day. Rather than scrolling through your phone or getting distracted by other things, you can dive into a few pages of your current read. Even if you only read a few paragraphs, these moments quickly accumulate. It is an easy way to make reading a part of your everyday routine.

Set a Daily Reading Goal

Setting a small, achievable goal for daily reading can help make the habit stick. Instead of aiming to read a whole book in one sitting, focus on a specific target, like reading 10 pages or a chapter a day. This goal does not have to take much time but helps you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. Gradually, you will notice that hitting these small targets adds up to significant progress.

Consistency is key, and making a daily goal gives you a sense of accomplishment. By focusing on reading just a little bit each day, you make it easier to incorporate into your schedule. Even on busy days, a 10-page goal is realistic, and it keeps your reading habit alive. This strategy helps you make progress in a manageable way without feeling pressure.

Use Audiobooks During Downtime

Audiobooks are a great way to enjoy books without needing to carve out dedicated reading time. They allow you to listen while doing other tasks, like commuting, exercising, or cooking. This way, you can still absorb a book’s content without needing your full attention. Audiobooks are available in various apps and formats, making it easy to access them wherever you go.

Listening to audiobooks is an efficient use of time, especially for people with busy schedules. Since you can multitask, it becomes easy to fit more reading into your day. The best part is that audiobooks can be as engaging as physical books, offering a different way to enjoy stories. With the right app, you can access thousands of titles and start listening anytime.

Read During Screen Time Breaks

Many people spend a significant amount of time on their phones or computers throughout the day. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media during breaks, use that time to read. Reading just a few pages or a chapter during these moments helps you stay productive without sacrificing relaxation. It can be a great way to break up the monotony of screen time and shift your focus to something more enriching.

Turning your screen time into reading time does not require much effort. During breaks between emails or meetings, you can easily pick up a book or read a few pages on an app. This simple shift allows you to incorporate reading into your day without needing a significant time investment. It also helps break away from the distractions of technology and reconnect with a story.

Make Use of Lunch Breaks

Lunch breaks can be a perfect opportunity to get some reading in. Instead of spending the entire break scrolling through your phone or talking to coworkers, you could read a book. Even if it is just for 15 to 20 minutes, this time adds up over the course of the week. Making reading a part of your lunch routine can help you feel refreshed and productive during your day.

Taking a break to read during lunch helps clear your mind and offers a peaceful moment in an often busy day. You can leave your phone aside and enjoy a few chapters of your current book. This small change can turn your lunch break into a time you look forward to, both for relaxation and for making progress on your reading list.

Join a Book Club or Reading Group

Joining a book club or reading group can hold you accountable for reading. These groups often set reading goals or discuss specific books each month. Having a group to share thoughts and opinions with makes reading more social and engaging. It also encourages you to keep up with reading so you can participate in discussions.

Being part of a reading community adds an extra layer of motivation. You might read books you would not have chosen on your own, broadening your reading horizons. Plus, the shared experience of reading and discussing with others can enhance your enjoyment of the material. It is a great way to stay committed to reading, even with a busy schedule.

Read Before Bed

Reading before bed is a wonderful habit that helps wind down after a busy day. Instead of scrolling through your phone or watching TV, try reading for 15 to 30 minutes before sleep. This quiet time can help you relax and settle into a peaceful state of mind. It can also be a great way to end the day on a positive note.

Making reading part of your bedtime routine has several benefits. Not only does it help you relax, but it can also improve sleep quality by reducing the exposure to blue light from screens. Over time, reading before bed can become a comforting habit that signals to your brain that it is time to wind down. This small change can make a significant difference in your daily reading habits.

Keep a Book by Your Bed

Having a book right by your bed encourages nighttime reading. Whether it is a physical book or an e-reader, keeping reading material within reach makes it easier to pick up before you sleep. You do not need to get out of bed or search for something to read. This convenience makes it a lot more likely that you will actually read before going to sleep.

This habit also ensures that you always have a book on hand when you are ready to relax. Many people find that reading a few pages at night helps them unwind and makes it easier to sleep. It becomes a natural part of your evening routine. Keeping a book by your bed is a simple way to guarantee that you will read regularly.

Use Reading Apps

Reading apps make it easy to read anywhere at any time. With your smartphone or tablet, you can have access to a wide variety of books right at your fingertips. Whether it is fiction, nonfiction, or even articles, there are plenty of options to explore. Using an app can help you stay on track with your reading without needing to carry physical books around.

Reading apps also let you customize your reading experience. You can adjust font size, brightness, and background color to suit your preferences. With syncing options, you can seamlessly switch between devices, allowing you to read during different parts of your day. Apps make it easy to keep reading, no matter where you are or how busy life gets.

Focus on One Book at a Time

While it might seem tempting to start several books at once, focusing on just one book can help you make steady progress. Juggling multiple books can lead to confusion and slow down your reading progress. Instead, try focusing your attention on one book and finish it before moving on to another. This can help you stay motivated and engaged in your reading material.

Focusing on one book allows you to immerse yourself in the story or subject. It helps you build a deeper connection with the material and remember details better. By finishing books before starting new ones, you create a satisfying sense of accomplishment. It also keeps you from feeling overwhelmed by having too many books waiting to be read.

Read on Public Transportation

Public transportation provides a great opportunity to read during your daily commute. Whether it is a train, bus, or even a ferry, you can use this travel time to get through a few chapters. Many people find that reading during this time makes the commute feel shorter and more productive. It is a great way to turn otherwise wasted time into an opportunity to read.

Reading on public transportation also allows you to be away from distractions like phones or TV. The quiet time can help you focus on your book without interruptions. Plus, it can be a great way to get into a new book or finish one you have started. This is a simple habit that makes it easier to read without requiring any extra time or effort.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.