First, if you are reading as a hobby, remember it’s not
school work. Don’t bully yourself into reading a book that you find mind-numbing just because you think you should read it. You’re not in high school
anymore (unless you are, but I’m not talking about assigned reading), and no
one is requiring you to do this! I find a big issue with many readers is that
they’re looking at it the wrong way. Yes, reading is one of the best ways to
advance your skills, intellect, and understanding, but you can enjoy yourself
too! Put down the tome you’ve been slogging through for the past five years and
find something that makes you giddy to read it. For the most part, there are
interesting and enjoyable books on most subjects (maybe not molecular biology,
but most subjects).
It’s perfectly okay to take breaks. Sometimes you’re just not in a
reading mood. Maybe this lasts a day, a week, months, but that’s all right too.
I work with a librarian who goes through phases. Sometimes she just wants to
play a video game and doesn’t really find a book that interests her. That’s
fine! Take a break. Once you find something that interests you, you’ll hop
right back in. This leads me to my next point: it’s all about the book!
Read the trashy romance. If that’s what tickles your fancy,
go for it! If you’re like me, next week something else will catch your eye.
Just like I said in the first paragraph, it’s not required reading, so have
fun. Pick out an armful of books when you go to the library and read the first
few pages of each. If you’re not hooked set it aside. Life is too short for books
you’re not into, so skip them. Nowhere does it say you must finish every book
you start. Just remember, reading is food for your brain, whether it’s literary
fiction, nonfiction, romance, sci-fi, mystery, or anything else--it’s good for
your brain to read.
Lastly, some people can read anywhere at any time, but some
of us are more particular. Find a place that you’re comfy, and a time that
works for you. I always wake up a little earlier so I can drink my cup of
coffee (or 3) and read for about 30-60 minutes in the morning before work. Just
like exercise, if you keep it up, it becomes a habit, and a very enjoyable one
at that.
So what do you do to keep yourself reading? Do you have a
reading routine? Do you keep lists of books to read? Do you have a favorite reading spot?
~Kristin M.
I love you, my sister. Thanks for the insight, encouragement, and reminder that even though the local librarian coaxed me into joining the summer reading program, she's not grading me or judging me. Wait. Do you lot judge patrons? I bet you do ;) Now, I need to get off the computer and read a few pages in several books before I go to bed. xoxo
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