Not sure if this post is allowed…
I used to love reading in middle school and high school. I was one of those kids who’d walk the halls while reading during passing time – I’d read every chance I got: during class, on the bus, while walking, etc.
During college, reading became more of a chore than entertainment.. then life happened and I stopped reading. The past few years I’ve really wanted to get back into it but since it’s been nearly 10 years since I was an avid reader, it’s proven difficult.
I can’t seem to settle on a mode for reading. I have Audiobooks, Kindle, and physical books. Each has its own benefits and downfalls- I struggle to pick one and stick with it. Whenever I encounter the downfall of a particular mode, I lose interest, then jump to a different book in a different mode.
I’m struggling to get back into reading, advice?
by Nope-NotToday-
4 Comments
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I’ve never really tried anything other than physical books myself so I can’t comment on if easing back into reading with audiobooks is a good method. However, for myself, I have had to realize that reading is a muscle and not reading for an extended period has made jumping back into reading somewhat difficult. I would suggest to pick an easier read – a mainstream novel over a book with a more academic intended audience. I also personally have found that reading some short stories collections is better than a novel for myself. You can read a full short story. I have found that reading a novel, sometimes I will be struggling to read and put it down for a few days and then the longer I don’t read it for, the less interested I am in getting back into the story and making myself get back to reading it, I don’t fully remember the earlier chapters so I’m not overly engaged. So basically I would pick a some lighter short story collections personally.
School also kinda took away my love of reading cause I was overanalyzing them in order to write a stupid essay, and it was hard to break out of that for a bit and just enjoy it lmao. Now that I’m done school, what got me back into reading was re-reading an old book I used to love. Now I’ve been reading almost everyday for over two years. Finding books you like in general obviously helps.
I personally prefer physical books. I like the feel of them, they smell good, I always like checking where my bookmark is after I close the book to see the progress, I love seeing my collection on my bookshelves, I also like collecting rare/old books when I can find them just to admire them (and read them of course if they’re not too delicate). I like the idea of being able to write comments in them, I can’t bring myself to actually do it, but it’s fun to think about LOL. I also live close-ish to two second hand bookstores where I can get lots of books for pretty good prices. Just some points to inspire you LOL.
I would recommend finding an anthology of short stories in your desired genre, particularly one with a variety of authors.
I’ve found this always works when I’m trying to get out of a reading slump. For me at least. The short stories are void of any intense feelings of commitment. The plethora of authors can help you find a new voice that resonates with you. And there’s usually such a wide range of stories, so you’re bound to find something you like.
Online book clubs are also a great avenue to consider. I feel more tempted to read when I’m doing a buddy or group read.
Edit: my fingers are too fat or too fast