We all know that reading is good for you. Reading feeds and challenges your brain; it opens up new worlds; it can even reduce your stress levels. So it’s no surprise that wanting to read more books is a common New Year’s resolution. Today we’re sharing our top tips and tricks for reading more – and how Bookclubs can help you stick to your New Year’s reading resolutions (sign up for a free account now!).
Related content: Ideas for more reading-related resolutions you can make
Our top 8 tips and tricks for reading more
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Set a goal: Determining how much you want to read is a great first step to reading more. Whether it’s a certain number of books, a certain number of pages, or a certain amount of time spent reading each day or week, having a specific goal will help you stay motivated. Make your goal realistic and achievable, so you don't get discouraged if you don't meet it right away. Bonus tip: Bookclubs can help you track your progress against your goal – sign up for a free account and you can input a goal number of books to read over the course of the year and we’ll let you know each month if you’re on track or falling behind.
- Set aside dedicated reading time: Reading can easily fall by the wayside if you don't make it a priority. Make a commitment to reading by setting aside a specific time each day or week to sit down and read. This could be before bed, on your commute (try an audiobook), or even during your lunch break. Bonus tip: set aside a dedicated reading space! Choose a comfortable chair in your living room or a cozy nook at your local library or favorite coffee shop.
- Find reading buddies: Sharing your reading experience with someone else can be a great way to stay motivated and accountable. Find a friend or family member to read the same book as you and discuss it together. Even better – join or start a book club! If you don’t personally know someone who fits the bill, there are many free online bookclubs you can join, reading a wide variety of books.
- Keep a reading list: Make a list of books you want to read and keep track of your progress. This will give you a sense of accomplishment as you cross items off the list and you’ll never get stuck on what to read next.
- Choose books that interest you: It's much easier to stick with a book if you're actually interested in it. Take time to think about what you enjoy reading and look for books in those genres or on those topics. Don't be afraid to branch out and try something new, but also don't feel obligated to read something just because it's "good for you." Reading should be enjoyable, not a chore. If you're not interested in the book you're reading, it's easy to set it aside and let your new habit die off. Choose books that pique your curiosity or that align with your interests.
- Mix it up: At the same time, don’t get stuck in a rut! Reading the same type of book or genre can get monotonous, so if you’re feeling unmotivated to read, change things up. Switch things up between fiction and non-fiction, pick up a magazine, or start listening to an audiobook. Bonus tip: Audiobooks can be a great option if you have a busy schedule, as they allow you to "read" while you're doing other things like driving or exercising.
- Take breaks: It's okay to take breaks while reading – in fact, it can help you retain more of the information you're reading. Take a break to stretch, get a snack, or just give your brain a rest. Try taking a break after each chapter or section of your book to reflect on what you've read and jot down any notes.
- Use apps and tools: There are many tools and apps available that can help you track your reading progress, discover new books, and even get recommendations based on your interests. These tools can also help you keep track of your reading list and mark off books as you finish them, which can be a great source of motivation. We may be biased, but we love using the Bookclubs app and website to help us manage our To Be Read list, look back at our ratings and reviews of books we’ve read, and get inspired for our next read through personalized book recommendations.
Why joining a book club will help you read more
Being a member of a book club is a great way to read more. Looking at the list of tips above, book clubs can satisfy many of them. Here are some of the many reasons book clubs help you read more:
- Book clubs help provide accountability. When you're part of a book club, you'll have a group of people who are also committed to reading, and you'll be expected to have read the book by the time the group meets. This can be a great source of motivation, especially if you're struggling to find time or energy to read on your own.
- Book clubs set reading goals for you. If your book club reads one book a month, you’ve got a goal of reading at least 12 books over the course of the year!
- Book clubs introduce you to new books and authors. The group may choose books that you might not have otherwise have heard of or considered.
- Book clubs enrich the reading experience. As a member of a book club, you'll have the opportunity to hear others' perspectives and thoughts on the book. This can make the reading experience more enjoyable.
- A book club can also be a social activity. This can be especially beneficial if you're an introverted reader. It gives you a chance to connect with others who share your love of reading, and you'll have the opportunity to discuss the book and exchange ideas with the group.
If you want to start a book club, take advantage of Bookclubs’ free organizing tools to take the work out of running a book club. Built by readers, for readers, Bookclubs has tools to manage your club membership, schedule meetings, poll members on book choices, track your club’s reading, and more.
If you’re looking for a book club to join, Bookclubs’ Join a Book Club page is a free directory of hundreds of online and in-person book clubs that are looking for new members. Browse by genre or interest area, or search by keyword or location to find a book club near you.
How Bookclubs can help you keep your reading resolutions
You already (hopefully) know that Bookclubs is the best place to organize your book club, start a new club or find a club to join – and you’ve just learned why book clubs are an amazing way to help you in your goal to read more.
But did you know that Bookclubs can also help you track your personal reading goals? In addition to your club’s digital bookshelves (Books We’ve Read, Books We Want to Read and Currently Reading book lists), you can keep track of the books you want to read on your personal Books I Want to Read shelf and look back at all the books you’ve read so far on your Books I’ve Read shelf. At the end of the year, Bookclubs will help you take a fun look back at all the reading you’ve accomplished!
Our newest feature allows you to specify your reading goals for the year. Set a goal for the number of books you'll read over the course of the year, the number of book club meetings you'll attend, or jot down and memorialize any other reading-related intentions you might have. Check back over the course of the year to see your progress, and we'll even send you some reminders and motivation if you're falling behind.
Setting up a Bookclubs account is free and easy - all you need to provide is your name and email address, or use your existing Google account. Sign up today and get reading!