Most people say they’d like to read more.
In one survey more than 8 in 10 people (81%) “felt that they do not read as much as they would like to (source: Forbes).
I bet you’re one of those people.
Yet who has the time?
Maybe you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start.
Or maybe you’re one of those folks who has an overwhelming large pile of unread books that you never seem to get to.
Fear not!
I’m sharing seven actionable tips to help you read (and learn) way more effectively.
Whether you’re a seasoned bookworm or someone looking to cultivate a new reading habit, these strategies will help you make the most out of your reading time.
**1. Get in the driver’s seat**
Reading something you genuinely want to read and are curious about is key to staying engaged. Look at the book’s table of contents and use it to ask yourself questions you’d like answered while you’re reading. This approach keeps you actively involved and invested in the content.
**2. Motivation**
Understanding your motivation style can significantly impact your reading habits. Take my motivation assessment to identify your motivation style. Then, check out my post on how to motivate yourself based on your style to tailor your reading approach accordingly.
For example, my top motivation style is achievement. I love to get stuff done. I have a little sticky note that breaks down the books I’m currently reading into boxes that each represent 50 pages of the book. So a 300-page book would have six check boxes. Then I check off a box each time I’ve ready 50 pages. Insert happy dance here. It gives me such a nice sense of accomplishment.
Doesn’t resonate with you? That likely means you have a different motivation style which is why it’s important to find out what yours is and use it. See the links above to do just that.
**3. Find your best friend**
Are you a paper person who loves the sensory experience of turning pages in actual books? Or do you prefer the convenience of an e-reader? Find what works for you and go with that. Embrace your preferred reading medium and don’t fight your flow.
**4. Dig into symbols**
Develop a system of symbols to help you keep track of important points or actions to take based on your reading. Whether it’s using different colored highlights in an e-reader that each mean something different or creating personalized symbols for a physical book, having a system in place will enhance your reading experience.
**5. Find your page rhythm**
Pay attention to what works best for you in terms of your reading pace. Figure out how many pages you like to consume in one sitting and aim for that. Establishing a comfortable rhythm will make tackling even the most intimidating books feel manageable.
**6. Find your time rhythm**
Identify the time of day that typically works best for you to read. Whether you’re an early riser who enjoys reading before the day begins or someone who prefers winding down with a book before bed, prioritize reading during your optimal time.
**7. Discover helpful tech tools**
Leverage technology to enhance your reading experience. Here are some examples:
- Use an app to minimize distractions
- Explore audiobook summaries with apps like Headway
- Utilize tools like ChatGPT for book summaries.
- Use tools like Ilovepdf.com to annotate PDFs for easier note-taking (if your book is in PDF format).
Implementing these seven tips will empower you to read more effectively and maximize your learning. By taking control of your reading habits, understanding your motivation style, and leveraging technology to your advantage, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more avid and informed reader.
So, grab your favorite book, curl up, get comfy, and start your reading 2.0 journey today!
Now go on and learn, laugh, and lead
Learn
- Figure out which of the seven tips speak most loudly to you and get ready to start practicing them.
Laugh
- This sweet boy has the cutest way of ‘reading’
Lead
- Dig in and actually implement some or all of the tips, starting with the one(s) that you like the best.
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