How to Read More Books in Less Time Without Skipping a Word

If you're a busy book lover, you’ve probably wished for more hours in the day to tackle your growing TBR (to-be-read) pile. But fear not! With the right strategies, you can read more books without skimming through the magic of every word. Let’s dive into some practical and fun ways to make reading fit seamlessly into your busy life.

1. Prioritize Your Reading Time

Make reading a non-negotiable part of your routine.

• Wake up 20 minutes earlier: Use the quiet morning hours to dive into a few chapters.

• Replace screen time: Swap scrolling for reading before bed—it’s easier on your eyes and soul.

2. Always Carry a Book (Or Two!)

Opportunities to read often pop up unexpectedly. Be ready!

• Physical Books: Keep a paperback in your bag for commutes or waiting rooms.

• E-Readers & Apps: Use Kindle, Libby, or Audible to have your library at your fingertips.

3. Use Audiobooks for Multitasking

Audiobooks let you "read" while doing other tasks:

• During commutes: Transform traffic into productive book time.

• While exercising: Pair a gripping thriller with your jog to stay motivated.

• Chores become fun: Cleaning dishes? Now it’s storytime!

4. Set Manageable Reading Goals

Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down:

• Daily Page Goals: Commit to 20 pages a day—it adds up!

• Challenge Yourself: Join a yearly reading challenge, like Goodreads, to stay motivated.

5. Learn to Love the DNF (Did Not Finish)

Don’t force yourself to read books that don’t spark joy.

• Life’s too short: If a book doesn’t grab you, move on guilt-free.

• Try Samples: Read the first chapter before committing fully.

6. Utilize Reading Hacks

These small habits can make a big difference:

• The Pomodoro Technique: Read for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.

• Buddy Reading: Join a book club or read with friends to stay accountable.

• Annotate and Highlight: Engage with the text to keep yourself immersed.

7. Curate a Reading-Friendly Environment

Set the mood to get lost in your book:

• Lighting: Choose warm, soft lighting that’s easy on your eyes.

• Comfort: Set up a cozy reading nook with blankets, pillows, and your favorite drink.

• Tech-Free Zone: Minimize distractions by keeping your phone out of reach.

8. Explore Shorter Books

Sometimes less is more!

• Novellas: Quick yet powerful reads.

• Short Story Collections: Bite-sized narratives you can enjoy in one sitting.

9. Follow Your Reading Mood

Read what feels right in the moment:

• Mood Reading: If you’re craving mystery, don’t force romance—it’ll only slow you down.

• Variety Keeps It Fresh: Alternate genres to avoid burnout.

10. Celebrate Your Progress

Finally, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come:

• Track Your Reads: Use a journal or app to document completed books.

• Reward Yourself: Treat yourself to a new book after hitting milestones.

Final Thoughts

Reading more books isn’t about racing to the finish line—it’s about creating space for what you love. By incorporating these strategies, you can seamlessly weave reading into even the busiest lifestyle while savoring every word.

Now, grab your current read, and let’s get started! What’s the next book on your list?