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May celebrates Get Caught Reading month, a national initiative aimed at reigniting the joy of diving into a captivating book. Despite our busy schedules, which often make reading feel like an indulgence, there are ingenious methods to weave more reading into your daily life, even amidst work, exercise, and rest.
1. ESTABLISH A MORNING READING HABIT.
It’s all too common to grab your phone first thing in the morning to check emails, news, or social media. Instead of beginning your day with work or updates, swap your phone for a book and enjoy a peaceful start.
"For me, it’s crucial to set the right mindset before the day’s chaos begins. That’s why I rise at 5 a.m. to read something uplifting before my kids wake up and daily tasks take over,” shares Brooke Thomas, an author and entrepreneur. “I find it easier to focus on my reading when I’m fresh and the house is silent.”
Thomas explains that this morning routine helps her begin each day with mindfulness and a positive outlook, which often carries through the rest of her day. Not an early riser? Consider reading during your commute. If you use public transportation, it’s an ideal opportunity to dive into a book or switch on your Kindle. For those who drive, audiobooks are a great alternative. Simply download them to your phone and connect to your car stereo, transforming your commute into an engaging storytelling session.
2. KEEP A BOOK WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES.
iStock“The simplest way to find more time for reading is to always have something to read on hand,” advises Gretchen Skalka, a consultant and coach based in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Skalka points out that in today’s service-driven economy, we often find ourselves waiting—whether at the doctor’s office, a nail salon, a coffee shop, or the laundromat. These moments, she suggests, are ideal for reading. “Consider how often you or someone around you has felt frustrated by a wait. Instead of irritation, why not use that time to read?”
In the Harvard Business Review, author Neil Pasricha shares an anecdote about Stephen King effectively using this approach. Pasricha writes:
A close friend once shared a memorable story with me. He mentioned that Stephen King had recommended reading for about five hours daily. My friend initially dismissed it, saying, ‘That’s unrealistic. Who has that kind of time?’ However, years later, while vacationing in Maine, he found himself standing in line at a movie theater with his girlfriend. To his surprise, Stephen King was ahead of them, engrossed in a book throughout the wait. Even as the lights dimmed and the movie started, King continued reading. When the film ended, he immediately reopened his book and kept reading as he left.
If carrying a physical book isn’t convenient, consider downloading ebooks or bookmarking articles on your mobile device. This ensures you always have reading material, even without an internet connection.
3. MONITOR HOW YOU SPEND YOUR TIME.
We often handle our time similarly to how we manage our money: there’s never enough, and we’re unsure where it all goes. To address this, Lisa Gessert, a professional organizer and Productivity Consultant based in Staten Island, New York, recommends keeping track of your time.
Utilize free tools like RescueTime and Hours to uncover where your time disappears. These tools automatically monitor your online activity, providing a clear breakdown of the websites and apps you use most frequently. You might be shocked by how much time you dedicate to certain activities.
4. BEGIN WITH SHORT INTERVALS.
iStock“Dedicate just 10 minutes to reading. That’s all,” suggests Skalka. “You’ll be amazed at how much you can cover in such a short span—and the feeling of achievement will linger throughout your day.”
Skalka advises setting a phone alarm to remind yourself to take 10-minute reading breaks regularly. She also recommends incorporating reading into solo meals like breakfast or lunch. This simple swap can transform a hectic morning into a serene and enjoyable routine.
5. MONITOR YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS.
Lastly, track your progress as you build this new habit. Witnessing your achievements can boost motivation to stay consistent. Platforms like Habitica add a playful twist by gamifying your goals, rewarding you with points for every reading session.
Skalka also highlights Goodreads, a social platform for book lovers. “Goodreads lets you track your current reads, completed books, and future picks. It’s also a social space, so you can connect with others, see what they’re reading, and join discussions,” she explains.
The social aspect adds accountability. Sharing your reading list with others can create a sense of commitment to finish your books. However, remember that reading should be enjoyable, so always choose books that genuinely interest you.
