10 Tips to Read More Books (Even If You’re in a Slump)
Have you found yourself staring at your TBR pile, wanting to read… but just not feeling it?
You’re not alone. Even as someone who loves books and talks about them daily, I’ve been in a serious reading slump lately. Between doomscrolling, life stress, and feeling overwhelmed, reading started to feel like a chore. But I’ve slowly found my way back—and today, I’m sharing 10 low-pressure, joyful ways you can do the same.
Whether you’re trying to finish your first book of the year or get back into a daily habit, these tips will help you build a sustainable and fun reading life again.
1. Set Realistic Reading Goals
Let’s start with the pressure point: reading goals. If you’ve been aiming to read 100 books a year and falling short, maybe it’s time to scale back.
Start small: try one book a month, or even one book every two months. The goal is consistency, not volume. And if you’re having a great reading month? Celebrate it! But don’t let a bad month derail you.
2. Create a Daily Reading Routine
You don’t need to carve out hours. Just 10–15 minutes a day can help you make progress and reignite your love for reading.
I used to keep a 15-minute daily reading streak on my Kindle for over 2,000 days! Now, I often listen to audiobooks in the car or as I fall asleep at night. Your routine can be anything that fits your lifestyle—morning reading with coffee, bedtime chapters, or audio while walking the dog.
3. Always Carry a Book
Whether it’s a Kindle, audiobook app, or physical copy—never leave home without something to read. You’d be surprised how often you can squeeze in a few pages while waiting in line, commuting, or even shopping at Costco (yes, I’ve done that!).
Little reading pockets throughout your day add up.
4. Replace Screen Time with Book Time
If scrolling TikTok or Instagram has taken over your downtime, try swapping that habit with reading.
Even just opening your Libby app and browsing for books can feel like a dopamine hit—but with fewer side effects. And if you love to multitask, consider swapping social media for audiobook time.
5. Embrace Audiobooks
Audiobooks are my secret weapon when I’m feeling too tired or distracted to sit down and read.
Start with memoirs (especially celebrity ones), cozy mysteries, or books you’ve already read. They’re great for driving, cleaning, or winding down at night. And if you want a cinematic experience, try a graphic audio title—they’re like a movie in your ears!
6. Get a Library Card (or Two!)
Libraries are your best friend—especially if you’re on a budget or love browsing without pressure.
With just a library card, you can borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and even new releases through apps like Libby and Hoopla. And here’s a tip: many libraries offer non-resident cards, so you can access collections beyond your local system.
👉 Check out my Substack for library card reviews and tips
7. DNF Books That Don’t Spark Joy
Say it with me: life is too short for books you’re not enjoying.
If a book doesn’t click after a few chapters, it’s okay to set it down. You can always come back later—or not. The more you read, the more you learn what works for you… and what doesn’t.
8. Read Shorter Books or Novellas
Nothing gives a dopamine boost like finishing a book.
Short reads (think: novellas, category romances, or even short audiobooks) can be incredibly satisfying. They’re perfect for weekends, travel days, or when you’re just trying to get back into the habit.
Looking for Novella Recommendations:
9. Join a Book Club or Reading Community
Reading is more fun with friends. Whether it’s an IRL book club, a Substack reading group, or even a buddy read on Instagram, connecting with other readers can motivate you and make the experience more meaningful.
If you’re looking for a community, check out the What to Read Next newsletter, where I share chats, book lists, and more.
Looking to start a Book Club?
10. Make Reading Fun Again
This might be the most important tip of all.
Read what YOU want to read. Forget the hype. Forget the pressure. Pick up that spicy mafia romance, that cozy mystery, or that niche nonfiction topic. Make reading about joy, not productivity.
Reward yourself for finishing a book. Go book shopping. Reread an old favorite. Do what feels good.
Final Thoughts
Reading more books isn’t about setting huge goals or following what everyone else is reading. It’s about finding joy in the pages—and creating a routine that supports your reading life.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, I hope one of these tips helps you get back into the groove.
📬 Want more reading tips and curated book lists?
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