Reading for pleasure is a concept that seems impossible for some folks, but I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t matter how busy you are. You can find time to read. Enjoying a book is not limited to when you have a day off work or going on vacation. Even with a chaotic schedule, you can find time to squeeze in a few pages. On the flip side, if you are already reading but you want to read more books, that’s possible too. Don’t believe me? Check out our tips on how you can find time to read for pleasure even when you’re extremely busy!

Practical Tips To Help You Find Time To Read

Leave all your misconceptions about reading at the door.

It might seem daunting to nonreaders or readers who haven’t read in years to start a reading habit.  Before you can find time to read or even start reading, you need to leave all your misconceptions at the door.  When it comes to reading, there are no rules.  Reading isn’t a race, and it’s not a competitive sport; there are no rules.  Give yourself permission to read what you want in whatever format is most convenient or comfortable. 

Surround yourself with books.

Always have on hand more books than you intend to read.  When I check out books from the library, pick up my order from my local bookstore, or my online order gets delivered to my front door – there are always more books that I can read at that moment.  

Having physical books around will encourage you to read more.  I also strategically leave books in spaces where I spend a lot of time.  There are books on my nightstand, coffee table, next to my favorite sitting chair, and even at my work desk.  I also keep books in my car and my handbag, so I will always have a book for moments of unexpected free time.  

If you are a digital or audiobook reader, always have your e-reader and audiobook app filled with books so you will always have options when you’re eager to read or find yourself with unexpected free time.  

Capitalize on breaks and moments of free time during your day.

A popular reading misconception believes you need large chunks of time to read, which is false. There is so much dead time that can be found throughout the day, and occasionally, unplanned moments of free time open up. Instead of scrolling through social media, pick up your book, grab your e-reader and read a few pages, or pop in your headphones and listen to an audiobook.  

Here are some free moments during your day where you could be reading: waiting for a delayed meeting to start, during your commute, waiting in line, or at an appointment.  The key is always to have reading material available.  

Make a reading commitment and put it on your calendar if necessary.

When starting a new reading habit, commit to reading for 30 minutes every day.  Find a part of your day when you think you can read and schedule it if necessary.  It could be on your commute, right before bed, or in between work commitments or meetings.  

Making this commitment will help you get into a routine, and over time it will become second nature!

Eliminate all distractions.

The distraction readers have reported the most is their mobile phones and social media. While putting your phone on silent, turning off all notifications, and putting the phone facedown works for some readers, it can still be a distraction. Opt to power down your phone entirely and place it in a drawer or a room far away. This way, it is out of sight and out of immediate reach. This way, your book gets your full attention!