10 Simple Ways to Make More Time for Reading (Even on the Busiest Days)

Let’s be honest: life gets busy. Between work, family, social obligations, and that never-ending to-do list, finding time to read can feel like a luxury we can’t afford. But as fellow book lovers, we know there’s nothing quite like the escape that comes from getting lost in a good book.

Here’s the truth: no matter how busy life gets, there are ways to sneak in more reading time.

You just need to get a little creative with how you fit books into your day. And the best part? These tips are totally doable—even if you’re juggling a million things. So, if you’re ready to turn your to-be-read pile into a to-be-enjoyed stack, let’s dive into these simple strategies to make more time for reading!

1. Start Small (Really Small!)

Ever feel overwhelmed just looking at your giant stack of books waiting to be read? That’s okay. The key is to start small. Commit to reading just 10 minutes a day. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how quickly those minutes add up. Whether it’s over your morning coffee or right before bed, you’ll find that a little time here and there adds up fast.

Pro Tip: Keep a short book or collection of essays on hand. I love having bite-sized reads for those moments when I only have a few minutes.

2. Use Audiobooks to Multitask

Audiobooks are a game changer. Stuck in traffic? Pop on an audiobook. Doing the dishes? Let a narrator take you on an adventure.

You can fit reading into your day while you’re cooking, cleaning, or commuting.

I used to think audiobooks weren’t for me, but once I gave them a try, I realized they help me get through so many more books!

Pro Tip: Choose a narrator you love—someone with a voice that draws you in makes all the difference. (Also, don’t be afraid to listen on 1.5x speed if you want to breeze through the story a bit faster!)

3. Set a Daily Reading Goal

We set goals for fitness, work, and self-care, so why not set one for reading? It doesn’t have to be ambitious—just 10 or 20 pages a day is a good start. Before you know it, those small goals will turn into finished books.

Bookworm Hack: Use a reading app to track your progress. Watching those numbers go up adds a little extra motivation to keep going!

4. Create a Cozy Reading Spot

Here’s something every book lover can appreciate: a dedicated reading nook.

Whether it’s a comfy chair by the window or a cozy corner of your couch, having a space that’s just for reading will make you want to escape there more often.

Fill it with soft blankets, candles, and maybe even a warm drink. Trust me, the more inviting your reading space, the more time you’ll want to spend.

5. Always Carry a Book with You

This might be the easiest tip on the list, and yet it’s so effective. Always have a book (or e-reader) with you. Stuck in a waiting room? Stuck in line at the grocery store? Boom, instant reading time. You’d be surprised how much reading you can squeeze into those random pockets of free time.

Pro Tip: Download an e-book or audiobook on your phone. That way, even if you didn’t bring a physical book, you’re always prepared.

6. Swap TV Time for Reading Time

Okay, I get it—we all love our Netflix marathons. But what if you swapped just one episode a day for reading? You’d be amazed at how much you can read in the time it takes to watch a 45-minute show. I started doing this, and suddenly, my reading pile started shrinking!

Bookworm Challenge: Try reading for 20 minutes before turning on the TV. You might find yourself so hooked on your book that you’ll skip the show altogether.

7. Join a Book Club

Book clubs aren’t just about discussing books—they’re a great way to hold yourself accountable for reading more.

When you know you’ve got a meeting coming up, you’re much more likely to carve out time to finish the book. Plus, who doesn’t love chatting with fellow book lovers about a great story?

Bonus: If you’re too busy for in-person meetings, consider joining an online book club or one on social media (Bookstagram, anyone?).

8. Limit Your Social Media Scrolling

I know, I know—it’s so easy to get sucked into an Instagram or TikTok scroll. But before you know it, 30 minutes have passed, and that’s 30 minutes you could’ve spent reading.

(We’ve all been there!) Instead, try setting a timer for your social media scrolling and use the rest of your free time to read.

9. Try Reading Multiple Books at Once

Here’s a tip for the mood readers: keep a few books going at once. If you’re in the mood for something light, pick up your fun read.

If you’re feeling more thoughtful, grab that deeper novel. By rotating between a couple of books, you’re always in the mood to read something, no matter how you’re feeling.

10. Schedule Reading Time Like an Appointment

If you schedule time for work, exercise, and errands, why not schedule time for reading? Treat it like a non-negotiable appointment.

Put it on your calendar and stick to it! Even if it’s just 15 minutes, you’ll be making reading a priority, and that’s what counts.

Conclusion: Make Reading a Habit, Not a Task

The secret to making more time for reading isn’t about having endless free time—it’s about creating habits that fit into your lifestyle.

Whether you’re sneaking in a chapter between tasks or setting aside a dedicated hour each night, every little bit counts. And before you know it, reading will become a regular (and much-loved) part of your day.

Until next time, keep turning pages and discovering new worlds!📚😊