Maximizing Reading in 2020: Strategies and Tips

Reading can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth in 2020. With a little effort and commitment, you can improve your reading habits and read more consistently. Here are some useful strategies and tips to help you achieve your reading goals.

Set Aside Time for Reading

Following the advice of Anchal Sharma, set aside specific time for reading every day. Don't skip your daily reading sessions. Start by visiting your local library and getting a library card. Spend time exploring the library's collection. Begin with short stories and magazines to ease into the habit of reading every day.

Eliminate Distractions

Zero in on your reading time and eliminate any other forms of entertainment or distractions. Use this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of books. Even if you just hear the little birds chirping as you read, take advantage of these quiet moments to absorb the stories and knowledge within the pages.

Small Steps Lead to Big Results

Start with reading just 10 pages a day. This translates to approximately 300 pages per month or almost one book every month. Over the course of a year, you can read about 12 books. As you become more comfortable with your reading routine, gradually increase the number of pages you read each day. This will help you develop a more efficient reading habit, allowing you to read more in less time.

Remember, people often overestimate what they can achieve in one year but underestimate what they can accomplish over a decade. Keep going and never give up. Every little step you take contributes to a significant increase in your reading capabilities.

Schedule Your Reading Time

Time management is key to reading more in 2020. Set aside specific hours for reading based on your priorities. Determine your favorite genres, calculate how many hours you have available for reading, and identify any time you can sacrifice for reading, such as reducing social media use.

Plan your daily page reading goal to ensure you can complete many books throughout the year. If books are your top priority, consider ditching non-essential activities, such as browsing social media, to free up time for reading. This can help you finish more books in a single year.

Explore Different Formats

To make your reading more enjoyable and varied, try different formats. For instance, graphic novels can be a great way to break out of a reading slump or meet your reading goals. If you're hesitant to commit to a lengthy book, consider short books like novellas or graphic novels. Some of my favorites include Nimona, Ghosts, and Pumpkinheads. These works not only help you meet your reading goals but can also provide the motivation needed to keep going.

Alternatively, you can read short, thin books if you find it challenging to commit to a large book. Embrace the process, and you'll be surprised by how many books you can complete in a year.

Set Achievable Reading Goals

To maximize your reading output, aim to read at least two books every week. While it may seem small, by the end of the year, you'll have read more than 100 books. Start reading whenever you get any free time, whether it's during your commute, at lunch, or during breaks. Every moment counts!

Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance your reading habits and help you achieve your goals in 2020.