As a personal development coach and international book author, reading books have always been a part of my life. Whether it is reading my books, or some self-help books, books have always been a source of inspiration, knowledge, and entertainment. However, not everyone shares the same love for reading books.

Many people struggle to find the motivation to read, or they simply don't enjoy it. And in today's fast-paced world, where technology has taken over our lives, sitting down with a book may seem like a daunting task. But the benefits of reading are numerous. It can reduce stress, improve vocabulary and cognitive skills, and increase empathy and creativity.

In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks to help you enjoy reading and make it a daily habit.

Read Books on Topics You Love

One tip for those who struggle to enjoy reading is to start by reading about something you already love. It could be astrology, gardening, cooking, or anything else that piques your interest. Finding books on familiar subjects can help ease you into the process of reading and make it more enjoyable.

This technique is not only great for those who are new to reading but also for those who have lost motivation. If you find yourself struggling to get into a new book, try going back to reading things you love, such as your favourite genre or self-help books. This can reignite your passion for reading and help you explore new subjects in the future.

Always Have a Book

Carrying a book with you wherever you go is a simple but effective way to make reading a habit. Whether you prefer hard copies or electronic versions, having a book on hand can help you make use of even the smallest pockets of free time.

This tip can be especially useful for those moments when you don't have access to other forms of entertainment, such as waiting at a doctor's office or riding public transportation. Even if you think you won't have time to read, having a book nearby can remind you to take advantage of any opportunity to read a page or two. So, make sure to keep a book accessible and reachable wherever you go. This will help you stay motivated and make reading a regular part of your daily routine.

Don’t Fix A Deadline

When it comes to reading for your personal development, don't set deadlines. Unlike assigned academic readings, leisurely reading should be done at your own pace. Setting mental deadlines can cause stress and make reading feel like a chore. Instead, enjoy the process and take your time. It's okay to take a month or more to finish a book as long as you continue reading and finish eventually.

Consistently reading and making it a habit is more important than intensive short-term reading. Be patient and enjoy the process. Reading is a grooming habit for the mind, so make it a lifestyle habit that nourishes your soul.

Don’t Finish the Book if You Don’t Like It

Tip number four for enjoying reading is to let go of books that you don't enjoy. It's okay not to finish a book that you've started. It's important to understand when it's time to let go of something, and this applies to reading as well.

Even if a book is popular and everyone is talking about it, if it's not speaking to your heart, it's okay to let it go. Forcing yourself to finish a book that you're not interested in will make you hate reading altogether. Give it a chance, but if it's still not for you, move on to something else.

Read Couple of Books From Different Genres

Another tip to help you enjoy reading is to read books from different genres simultaneously. It's possible to read two or more books simultaneously without getting confused. If you're reading two novels, make sure they have different plots.

 Reading books from different genres also helps you switch between work-related and pleasure reading. For example, you can read a self-help book and a novel at the same time. Reading consistently is key to developing a reading habit. Having multiple books to choose from makes it easier to switch between them based on your mood.

Read the Book Actively: Have a Pen With You

Tip number six for enjoying reading is to read actively. Have a pen or pencil with you and underline interesting ideas, quotes, concepts, facts, or statistics that speak to your mind and heart.

Write your thoughts or reflections on a sidebar to visually remember the information better. If you don't like writing in your book, use sticky notes to mark pages or ideas and copy them into a notebook later. Active reading helps you retain information better and recall it when needed.

Take Notes On Your Readings

Taking notes on a book's takeaway points, lessons, concepts, and ideas that speaks to your heart and mind is one of the many ways to build your love for reading. Jot them down in a notebook or type them in your notes. This practice helps you recap the book and recall interesting quotes, personal lessons, or facts and statistics. It is especially useful for self-help or self-development books.

You can even write down points you disagree with and use them later for counter-arguments. Organise your notes by naming the file with the book's name, author, and date, and collect them in a folder. This way, you can revisit your notes and recall information from all the books you've read.

Read The Book And Listen To Its Audio Simultaneously

The final tip is to read a hard copy book while simultaneously listening to its audio version. This practice helps to reinforce the message and enhance your understanding of the book. It is similar to watching a movie with subtitles, where you listen to the audio and read the text at the same time.

And this method is particularly helpful for academic purposes and can improve your retention of information by up to 200%. So, find an audio version of the book online and start reading and listening simultaneously to enhance your reading experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reading is a wonderful way to expand your knowledge, imagination, and creativity. By following these eight tips, you can enhance your reading experience and make it more enjoyable, fulfilling, and productive.

For more tips and insights on how to enjoy reading, make sure to check out my YouTube video on "Tips to Enjoy Reading." With these tips, you can transform your reading experience and discover the joy and benefits of reading.