If you don’t read much—or maybe you don’t consider yourself a “reader” at all—but want to change that, you’re in the right place. Reading can feel intimidating or like a big commitment, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide shares simple, realistic ways to start reading more books, without pressure or guilt, so you can discover the joy and benefits of reading on your own terms.
Don’t Force It
If you’re new to reading or haven’t read regularly before, it’s especially important to be gentle with yourself. You don’t need to dive into long or complex books right away. Start with short stories, articles, or even graphic novels—anything that feels approachable. The key is to build confidence and enjoyment slowly.
Building a healthy reading habit means allowing yourself to read at your own pace and enjoy the process. If a book doesn’t interest you, it’s okay to put it down and try something else. Reading should feel fun, not stressful.
How to Set Realistic Reading Goals
Setting goals can help you read more books by giving your habit direction — but the key is to keep them realistic and flexible. For brand-new readers, your first goal might simply be to open a book once a week or read for five minutes at a time. These small steps add up and make reading less intimidating.
You can also set monthly goals like finishing one book a month or reading a certain number of books in a year. Remember, it’s okay if you miss a day or two. The goal is to make reading feel rewarding, not stressful.
Track your progress using a reading journal or apps like Goodreads. Seeing your accomplishments grow can be a big motivation boost!
Start with What You Already Love
If you’re just starting out, think about what kinds of stories or topics naturally catch your attention. Maybe it’s a movie or TV show you like, or a hobby you enjoy. Books related to those interests can be a great way to ease into reading and keep your motivation up.
Or think back to a book you enjoyed when you were younger. Revisiting those early favorites can help spark an interest you may not have realized you still have.
If you loved a particular genre or author, you can use sites like Goodreads or ask your local librarian to help you find books to read similar to what you enjoyed before. Starting with books you like is one of the best ways to build a sustainable reading habit.
Discover New Genres
If you want to read more books and expand your horizons, try stepping outside your usual genres. Whether you usually read romance, mystery, or fantasy, experimenting with new genres can make your reading experience fresh and exciting.
Exploring different book types not only helps you find books to read but also broadens your knowledge and empathy. Try searching for “top [genre] books” or “best [genre] books” to get popular recommendations, or join book clubs to discover new genres that might surprise you.
Where to Find Book Ideas
One of the biggest challenges for readers is knowing where to look for great books. Your local library is an excellent place to start — librarians provide personalized recommendations and many offer free digital access to ebooks and audiobooks.
Online platforms like Goodreads are fantastic for tracking your reading and finding suggestions based on what you’ve enjoyed. Social media communities, especially BookTok and Bookstagram, offer tons of book recommendations and trending titles.
If you want to spend less time scrolling on your phone, check out our past blog on how to be phone screen free (click here) — freeing up time to read more.
Using Different Formats to Read More
Reading doesn’t have to mean only sitting down with a physical book. Mixing up formats can help you fit reading into your busy life:
- Audiobooks: Perfect for commutes, workouts, or household chores. They turn “dead time” into reading time and help you enjoy books even when your hands or eyes are busy.
- Ebooks: Great for travel or when you want multiple books on the go without extra weight. Many ebook apps also let you adjust text size and background colors to make reading easier.
- Physical Books: Some people love the feel and smell of a real book, plus it can be easier on your eyes compared to screens.
Experiment with formats to find what works best for you. Sometimes switching things up keeps reading fresh and exciting.
Learn As You Go
One of the hidden benefits of reading is how it helps you learn new things naturally. When you come across a word or concept you don’t know, take a moment to look it up. This simple habit will grow your vocabulary and deepen your understanding — a great reason to read more regularly.
The Benefits of Reading
There are many reasons to make reading a part of your routine, including:
- Reducing stress and improving mental wellbeing
- Increasing focus and concentration
- Expanding vocabulary and knowledge
- Building empathy by experiencing different perspectives
- Providing a healthy alternative to screen time
Even short daily reading sessions can help you enjoy these benefits. Remember, it’s not about how much you read but the quality and consistency of your reading habits.
Closing Thought:
If you’re wondering how to read more without forcing it, start with books you love, be open to new genres, and enjoy the journey. Over time, your reading habit will grow naturally — one page at a time.
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