My philosophy: If I've spent a lot of time in a book I'm not enjoying, quiting doesn't mean wasting that time, it means not wasting more. Also, reading a book I don't like to the end isn't going to make it worth the money I paid 🤷 I leave this here just in case someone finds this thought helpful :)
Agreed, putting down books I was not enjoying was a game changer for me regarding the number of books I could read. While I am reading a book I don't enjoy, I am not enjoying a book I could be reading (if that makes any sense)
Forcing myself to keep reading a book I don't like will also keep me from reading anything at all. Because if I don't like it I'm just gonna find something else to do instead of read.
0:44 1. No screens before bed 2:47 2. Read multiple types of books 4:30 3. Try different mediums 7:53 4. Take a break if a book isn't enjoyable 9:51 5. Join a book group
Having an E-reader was a game changer for me. It made me able to read anytime anywhere without the constraints of having physical books. Best part is I got my whole library in my pocket now.
I’m 22 now. When I was 12 my grandma gave me an e-reader because ebooks are cheaper and I was a broke teenager. Last year, I put all my books in StoryGraph (the ones I can remember) and I was shocked at how many big books I’ve read as a child/teen. Because of the format I didn’t realise that almost every book I’ve read is 300+ pages long. I think that I would have never picked those books up physically out of big book fear in my early teens.
I must be a freak then, i restarted reading a few years ago, with the dark tower series, and now the wheel of time, so a 400 page book is now very small lol
I regularly read 1000-1200+ pages books but if I see them in their physical forms I still think reading a book that big would be insane while I already do that all the time. I can't even picture myself turning that many pages.
@@arcanethink its surely a psychological factor i agree, i now rend them on my kobo e reader, but its for financial reason, i read so much books now that buying them physically would cost too much in a year i thinkl ive now read 7 books in 2 months, that would be way too much money for physical copies, since i like them paperback or even hardcover.
@@arcanethink @neme6ben same, I started reading ebooks because I was a broke teen and that fear of a large physical book is still somewhat here. Although it turned into ‘no A big book will take me long to read while I also wanna read all these 300 other books. But because of ebooks i just didn’t realise as a 12yo that I was reading the exact books I was ‘afraid’. I just found that funny when I saw that. Now I mainly read ebooks cause it’s cheaper, I read quite fast and I don’t have much space for physical books anyway.
Once you start using that Libby app it totally changes how you view eBooks. Being able to borrow and return books to the library while never leaving your couch is so nice. And the selection is usually much larger because you don't have to worry about interlibrary loans and transfers. It's just all available to you now. The other nice part is highlights. A LOT of the non-fiction that I read I have sections that I mark up and return to for reference later. Having electronic highlights that you can search using key words is amazing. Even with fiction it's nice to highlight your favorite sections. Lastly, it makes travel much easier. Since I'm usually reading four books at once I typically use up a lot of room in my luggage just for books. But a single Kindle is much easier. It also allows you to jump back and forth between audio and actually reading if that's a thing you're into. I still have hundreds of physical books. And I adore my physical books. But the eBook has made some serious inroads with me.
Everybody is different, of course, but I am not lying to you when I say that I think that every reader that I've come across, in real life or online, who tried out ebooks ended up liking them - and I mean *every one!* I like physical books myself and was equally skeptical. I still like physical books but since I've been trying out ebooks I've changed my mind. Both formats have their place - in fact, the best combination (and also the most expensive 😛) is probably to have the same book in both formats. I'm not trying to convince you, I don't have a stake in ebooks - but I'd suggest you just give it a try. Pick an older classic you always were interested to read - if it's in public domain chances are very high that it's available at Project Gutenberg or Project Gutenberg Australia (two different sites that complement each other due to copyright laws).
I dont know who needs to read this, but I know you’re out there. Discworld is the perfect palate cleansing series when you’re in a slump. Pratchett’s style is so unique, it will refresh you no matter what you were reading.
I wake up at six every morning and read for an hour before getting out of bed. It gives me plus one hour of reading besides my nighttime read and my brain the boost it needs for the day.
I read about 1-1.5 hours before bed. Granted, it's mostly with the Kindle, but it has still improved my sleep a bit and has allowed me to read more. I've been averaging 2 books a week so far this year. It's early, but it's now become a goal of mine to keep up that pace.
I’m a strict one-book-per-format-at-a-time reader, but I actually love the idea of the 10-page-a-day rule for a book I’m struggling to get through and then switching to something else. I’ll have to try that next time I’m struggling!
The screen time thing is honestly probably the best tip I can give people, and not just for reading. Just in general. Like I started cutting back on screen time/social media years ago at first to avoid having a movie or game or whatever spoiled for me before I could see/play it but after that I just rediscovered how much time I'd spend mindlessly scrolling lol. Obviously I still do at times, but just having that time "back" has completely reinvigorated my joy of reading over the last 7-8 years honestly. Also, the having books on your phone has also been a game changer, especially for those long lines at the grocery store or the doctors office haha.
Nice tips. I also recommend reading mangas or comic books if you're in a slump since those are easy to go through. Sometimes you have so many things to do and feel lazy to pick a book, but mangas are simpler and faster.
Listening to audiobooks has been a game changer I went from 0 books a year to ~20 last year ! Wheel of Time Series Red Sister The Poppy War Threebody Problem / Dark Forest Mistborn 1 Stormlight Archive 1 & 2 (currently listening to) It's like a whole new world is opening up to me !
I need to get into Audiobooks. I'm a slow reader and 20 books a year is about my average and I want to read more because I have an ever growing TBR list.
SAME! I didnt get into reading till a few years ago and I hated how slowly I was getting through books cuz I predominately read brick size fantasy novels. So glad I tried audible and after a year I decided to get a premium account cuz Im just mowing them down now.
Getting ebooks from the library has definitely helped me read more. Easier access, not having to buy so many books, I don't feel bad moving on from a book I'm not enjoying because I didn't spend money on it, and I get audiobooks from my library for when I'm driving. I'm so grateful for my local library and its digital collection :)
I've never been a reader, but finally bought an ereader. I read a lot more now, not only because it's easier on the eyes, but also because I spent so much money on it to waste. I've also been writing my thoughts on every book I read no matter how short, just for myself, not even for reviewing. Therefore I can actually find my own thoughts later on instead of being asked about a book and not remembering anything from it.
I find getting my reading done in the morning has increased the amount I get done and it improves my mood for the rest of the day. That hour or so in the morning with my kindle and cup of tea, before I have to do anything, is glorious.
Awesome tips! I'll add mine: - Have something prepared after finishing a book. I've been in plenty of situations where I didn't know what to read after finishing another book, and it takes me weeks to then decide what to read next. Complete waste of time. This is when a SHORT TBR really comes in handy. - But also don't be afraid to change your TBR if you find your mood has shifted. - Lastly, tracking your reading progress (like in Storygraph or a journal) can motivate to read more. Happy reading everyone!
I’ve gotten into a habit of carving out time to read in the mornings at breakfast, especially once I’ve finished eating and am sipping my coffee (I have trouble reading and eating simultaneously). It doesn’t always work well, sometimes other family members get up earlier than usual and it can be hard for me to focus when other people are bustling around, but there are days when it works like a gem and sometimes is the only reading I get that day. I’m getting into the habit of audiobooks and having an ebook on my phone as well, but I am going to work on turning off screens in the evening; your suggested time frame is very helpful! It’s like, I’ve always known in theory it’s good to turn off screens before bed, but I either didn’t know or just plain forgot how long before bed, so just kind of…didn’t do it. (Hopefully that’ll help the occasional insomnia too, lol)
I've also been reading in the morning at breakfast! It's great but like you said, if someone else got up earlier than usual it much harder to read (even though I'm good at reading in busy places generally)
My biggest hurdle is every time I find a book I really like, I want to start it over and read it to my husband (who's not a reader but loves stories), because discussing stories with others is the best! Appreciate the tips!
One thing that helps me get motivated to read is watching your videos and hearing you talk about books with such passion, just makes me wanna enjoy them just like you do ☺️
Joining your Patreon Discord has greatly increased the number of books I read. It has also been a great place to help me read more out of my normal genres, and with all the great recommendations from members I have read fewer bad books. But like you said the friendships made on Discord have been the greatest part about joining, such a wonderful community. (Plus I get to see videos early and confuse viewers when comments are posted before videos are released)
I really like using the continuous scroll option for kindle on my phone. It gives me the feeling of endless scrolling but I'm actually reading a book. And it has helped me break my 'must read til the end of the chapter' habit. I find it easier to pick up and read on the toilet or at doctors offices because it's just like scrolling on social media.
Great video with some practical tips. Just finished a book that didnt appeal to me in the first few pages but gradually my pace picked up. And for me usually, I have that 1 day when I finish around 40 percent of the book, and I look forward to that day in every book that I read.
Thank you Merph ...I often have suicidal thoughts but books and your videos gives me comfort ...I'm not exaggerating here . You really do help me with coping my stress ...I dunno why but I think you are my comfort person 💗
When I read Malazan Book of the Fallen, somewhere around the end of the fourth book, I made a rule for myself. One chapter a day - not counting Prologues and Epilogues, I doubled up on those as necessary - first thing in the morning before I allowed myself to read anything else. This got me through the latter six books in just shy of six months.
Thank you for the ebook love! I’ve read so much more since keeping ebooks on my phone. I mostly read romance that way because it’s usually chill and lighthearted.
These solid tips! I find reading on my phone to be the best use of my time. I also recently started reading before I go to bed and it really does help with having a more restful sleep!!
Lots of great tips here. The screen-time one is really one I need to try. I do make an effort to not spend too much time on my phone, but temptation to continue to text and keep up with friends is always there. I have recently set a "bedtime" warning on my phone to activate at 10pm, so that's something, but I need to try harder! Having multiple books going at one time has been a gamechanger the past few years. I typically have three going at any one time. A "fun" fiction book, a history/science/educational book, and a theological/religious/philosophical book. It has really helped, because, as you said...sometimes you get in a rut with one book or aren't quite feeling it. If you have a few other books going, you can immediately switch to one of those! And it has helped diversify my reading, which is never a bad thing. This is the one single thing that has helped me the most! Something that's helped me quite a bit as well (I guess kinda touched upon in the screens discussion) is just getting away from my computer and my "routine work space" (which lately has been home!) and finding new places to read that are *just for reading*. After work, I've made it a priority to get some physical activity time (workout, walk, etc) and then I will go to my front porch and read. Get away from my computer. Get away from my office set-up. Put myself somewhere I cannot be distracted and can just read. Obviously not possible for everyone, but it's helped me to just find a spot that I can call my reading spot and can disconnect from the wider world and curl up and get lost in a good book...
I've been borrowing a lot of ebooks and audio books from the library through Libby and it has made me read much more, in part, because I want to finish each one before it gets pulled back from my device! Also great that they're free, of course.
Reading with Friends and discuss books is a really good way to keep on reading more books. It really motivates a person. Yes, There is a lot of books out there, I do agree with you that you can put down a book if you don't like it. I do the same as you at night. Turn everything off, read for an hour. It really helps with sleep and making life in general better.
Your casual mention of your dyslexia while reading is perhaps one of your biggest passions is yet another example of the amazing ability of humans to overcome their weaknesses. Recently I have become aware of so many examples of people adapting and overcoming their limitations. A visually impaired photographer, a nine-fingered pianist, the paralympians. I’m in awe of all of you.
I’ve basically taken control of my schedule to where I substitute my down time that would be used to being all over social media to reading. I find more free time in my schedule and I’m using it now for reading versus scrolling online. Thanks for the video!
One great thing about Kindle ebooks for dyslexics is you can switch the font to OpenDyslexic which is designed to help. Also you can change the size, line spacing, and margins. I know these things and the fact my eyes don't have as much space to wonder are so helpful for me as someone with dyslexia. I can read faster and longer. I still love the feel of a physical book and I adore audiobooks but ebooks can be tweaked to help support my reading. Just thought I'd share.
I quit facebook for real a month ago. I've read 5 books since. That's about as much as I might read in a year. I thought it would be hard to quit facebook, but with this newfound quality replacement, I haven't even cared to go back even once. And I didn't even delete the app (I hid it in a random folder in my phone because my ex's wedding is being planned for later this year through it, so I'll need to check in occasionally). I'm really proud of myself.
Thanks for this. When I clicked I thought: well, she is probably not a working wife and mom as me, but maybe I'll grab a useful tip. So encouraging to hear useful tips from another momma!
I have my library’s app on my phone so I use that for the easier more light hearted books that I don’t necessarily want to be spending all my money on which I’ve found really helpful
It’s been 3 years since I’ve touched a book. In December I got gifted a tablet, I decided to start reading one peace. I still struggle to be consistent, but I’m just happy I started reading again.
I prefer to read in the morning. I wake up maybe an hour earlier just to get that extra time of quiet. My attention span is sharper and it is more relaxing than just jumping out of the bed. Obviously people have different family situations and so on that would make it hard, but it helped me a lot.
Because I write more than I read at this point, I alternate between doing one or the other in the evening. Now, depending on the writing/reading session, I may or may not stay up night excited to explore a conflict or find out what happens next. It still beats looking at screens all evening (unless I'm writing all night on my laptop... oops). I feel supported by the last tip because writing, like reading, can feel very solitary at times. Just like it makes me glow inside to discuss an amazing story I'm enjoying with a friend (movie, book, tv-show, anime, and such), it can make my day to talk with a friend about our ideas for characters and worlds. It's interesting that both sides of the reader/writer coin have some parallels in that way.
Thanks for this, ive recently got back into reading, but started off with a fairly heavy non-fiction. Hearing someone say I can stop and read something light for a while really helped me to keep motivation.
I work nights and my schedule makes it really hard to read before bed, but I've taken this week off and am sleeping during a normal hour, so I've been reading before I go to bed and and in just a couple of days, it has made a substantial difference for my sleep schedule! Can't wait for the day when my schedule is my own.
Prime Reading has Amazon Classics for classic books that combines ebook and audiobooks. Normally i wouldnt get both because of price but this is a very nice way to experience old books for (pretty much) free. Also the combination of seeing the words and having them read to me feels like the easiest way for me to consume older books.
I agree with the ebook point. I tend to read chunky books on my kindle as it is so much easier to hold and I read faster. I do love actual books aswell, but I read smaller books that way.
These are some of the best tips I've seen on this topic. I especially like #5 - Find your nerds! I recently just did my first buddy read and it was an amazing experience. We read a book I had actually read before, but I came away loving it even more because of the shared experience and being able to talk about it.
I’ve learned to stop feeling bad about possibly putting a book aside for months. I even read comics mostly too. Putting a book down also doesn’t mean I wasn’t liking it, just something else grabbed me more. Coming back to something later is such a great tip. I’m loving the mangas Vinland Saga & Spy X Family right now. One is a grim Viking, Coming of Age, War Epic. The other is an Action Comedy where everyone in the family, including the child, has a secret they’re keeping while the “Father” is running a spy operation that requires him to generate a family because his target occasionally socializes within an elite private school community. It’s quick, tightly characterized, action packed and hilarious. I’ve come to love both very quickly. I’ll still go back to North American comics, just need a change of pace at times.
I’ve read more books in the past month since discovering this channel just out of a newfound excitement for reading 😅 I *want* to start reading before bed instead of scrolling, but I always seem to forget that at bedtime so I need to work on that for sure.
Thank you so much for this video, Merphy! This makes me feel so much better. I know my biggest problem is screen time before bed, but my trouble with the tip is knowing when I'm going to bed, to then cut out the hour of screen time before bed. I'm a grad student and so I'm constantly working on assignments and when you're a night owl who works best at night, it's hard to set a bed time. I do love my Kobo for reading e-books (from the library or from the Kobo store!) And I agree I feel like I read more since I can adjust the font and the size of the font!
I'm considerably older than you, I'm sure and a night owl by nature. Screen time will mess with you, so maybe forbid it entirely in your bedroom or sleep area (or reading spot) while keeping a stack of books or your reader there. Make it the coziest space, with warm dimmer light. If there are exceptions to the screen ban, you'll take advantage.
Since last year, I wanted to read more so I've started to read during breakfast (I live alone) and it was a life changer. I don't have a preset amount of time to read. It depends on the book, so it doesn't feel like an obligation. Sometimes I read 5 pages and sometimes I read for one hour. Not only it helps me to read more books, but also I start my day more relax :D
I'm primarily an audiobook person, it just fits into things way easier and there are always tons of deals (including free books) on Audible. I usually alternate between fiction and non-fiction. And typically I'll do one or two shorter books and then go back to the epic novels. It's nice to get that sense of accomplishment from the shorter books.
I do tip 2 and it has literally changed my life.. I find that I can read more now and stay focused because i'm jumping between stories without staying focused on one.. I read or finish 3 books in one month instead of just one. It's a life saver
Joining a local book club is another way to help read more books. I joined one a few years ago and it got me back into reading, and it got me reading books I normally wouldn't grab on my own(most of which I thoroughly enjoyed). When I moved I started my own book club and it's still great! I read what I love(fantasy), and I read what others recommend, and then we discuss them!
I’ve been alternating formats and genres and that has really worked great for me. Currrently I’m listening to A song of ice and fire on Audible while at work (My job allows me to listen to stuff 8 hours a day) and when I feel like reading physically, I have One Piece to dive into. I’m also working on Wheel of Time, but currently I’m reading that along a first time reader podcast so that is kind of a weekly thing. The variety really helps me get through more stuff and I love it.
I have two audiobooks going at a time. One on my computer and one on my phone. I have the rule that the only time I can listen to the one on my phone is when I am out doing errands. This actually helps me to get out of the house more. Otherwise I would only leave the house one day a week to get groceries.
Reading multiple books at once is something I have been meaning to try. I usually have a printed book and an audiobook going at the same time (different books. I buy enough books as it is, don't need to buy the same book in two formats) but I could do more. I just bought the second book in the Malazan series, and there is no way I am reading that in one go. Alternating with a lighter read might help. My daughter always has 4-5 novels going at the same time, and she probably reads more than me (she's 9, and quite proud of out-reading her mom). But the social aspect is probably what I am missing the most.
I love the tip about reading just 10 pages every day for more challenging books. I'll try that with The Count of Monte Cristo. I always wanted to read it, but was daunted by the size.
Awesome tips! I’ve been doing tips 1-4 without realizing it and went from 6 books in 2020 to 20 books in 2021. My goal is 24 this year. These truly do help!
I find that some books can be a slog and hit slow parts. As a result I often am prone to just set it down and am discouraged to get back into it. Sometimes it becomes a DNF simply because I couldn't push through. My solution is that I read multiple books at the same time which allows me to jump back and forth. If I hit a tough spot I push as far as I can and then read something different. I usually have four books going at once - a classic fiction, a non-classic fiction (mostly SciFi/Fantasy), a political non-fiction and a wildcard non-fiction.
About the first tip, also read with an adecuate light. If your turn off the phone to avoid the blue light while you have a blue light in your room or wherever you are reading, you are efectively doing nothing. So yeah, careful about your home lights also.
Tips mentioned: 1. no screens before bed 2.read multiple types of book 3.ebooks and audiobooks help 4.quitting some books if necessary 5.join book club or talk about books with someone.
I have a rough time with audio books, but it's wonderful for people who like them or find them helpful. Ebooks are nice for library and cheap books. I've just recently gotten into "multiple books at once". It helps to be able to pick up a book based on mood (thought provoking non-fiction, fun easy fiction, and deep intense fiction is the three I have found I like in the last week at least)
I always said I could never use a kindle or others like it. I bought myself the basic kindle and I’m absolutely in love with it. I find that I don’t get overwhelmed with a book because I can only see one page at a time vs 500-700 pages with a tradition book.
I do like reading multiple books at once and in different formats. I primarily read ebooks (love them so much!!!) but I've really made an effort to read more audiobooks this year. I used to struggle with retaining/listening to audiobooks but I've figured out that I need to be doing something mindless but busywork while listening to audiobooks. So any time I am cleaning, folding laundry, cooking, walking the dog, or something like, I try to listen to an audiobook and I'm listening at double speed so I've literally doubled the amount I read per month by incorporating audiobooks. I also find that there are some books I think I enjoy much more in audiobook format because the narrator is so fantastic. Or books that I would struggle through reading on my own like classics--these are a great option to read as an audiobook instead! Also wanted to add something I love about ebooks is being able to read in dark mode. Reading physical books is really tiring to my eyes. Plus it's nice to read an ebook in bed and be able to fall asleep quickly because I have the screen brightness all the way down and don't have to worry about putting the book up/turning off a light. It's pretty fantastic 😊
I prefer to go through audiobooks as "re-reads" of things I've already done myself with the physical text. I know the story already and if my mind wanders a little it's not a huge deal. But you're totally right about some narrators. The good ones make a series so much fun (Jim Dale that did the Harry Potter books was excellent for instance). But a bad narrator can really ruin it. Tom Clancy's "Red Storm Rising" is an amazing book but incredibly long and dense. Audio seemed to make sense for a re-read but the narrator they chose is absolute trash. DNF.
6:25 can confirm, yesterday I had like a 50 page submission and only one day to do it so I was in a lot of stress, and when I took my break for some reason I decided to read the eye of the world instead of scrolling RUclips and that made a world of difference relieving most of my stress and letting me get back to my work in a much more positive mindset
Reading multiple types of books is something I’ve only recently started doing, currently I’m Reading Wheel of time(I’m on the 4th one now), To Kill a Mockingbird, and Percy Jackson(just finished Lightning Thief). I’m also listing to The Little Princess on audiobook.
I've always read a reasonable amount but I find periodically I hit a reading block and, if I'm not careful, I'll not read anything for days. I've always found the quickest and best way to break out of that is to go back to a slim book that I love for a re-read. I find The Hitch-Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy a good choice. Or a Terry Pratchett novel. And I definitely like to have more than one book on the go at a time especially when one of them is particularly difficult and/or long. You need to clear your palate occasionally. I used to ruthlessly not DNF books but I'm coming to the conclusion I should change my rules on that. I'm getting old. I don't have the time to read books I'm not enjoying.
@@FM95.5 My longest is years hahaha. I only came back because of this pandemic, coming back to old hobbies and just recently rekindled my love for reading.
I recently started reading first thing in the morning which has unabled me to read so much more. On week days i don't always have time, but the weekends are now carved out for me and my book 📖
As I'm getting ready for bed I listen to an audio book. I sleep so much better since doing that. A lot of my non fiction reading is through audio books.
Reading before bed is something I do since childhood. I always try to read at least one paragraph (when I’m really tired) but I will open that book. I also like to switch between YA and adult fantasy when I need some reading boost. I’m a mood reader and I wanted to start Stormlight before Christmas, but I caught myself in fantasy romance, there are 3 books out, each has over 600 pages, by the end of the third book I was tired of the romance and got excited for epic fantasy story even more than I was before Christmas. And I think that is partially the reason why I’m eating up Stormlight from page 1, unlike Mistborn that was a bit draggy for me.
I try to read an hour or two before bed and it definitely helps to get more sleep. I don't know how many times I've woke up with my book on my chest with my book light dead. What really helps me is that I read on my breaks at work.
Audio books changed my life. Of course I wish I could sit and read but audio books allow you to fill the monotonous tasks of life with something you love! Driving, Cleaning, working out you name it. You can really get through some titles.
Don't sleep on that multiple mediums tip. It's definitely been a game changer for me. My personal setup is: start the book on physical and read the physical book at home, listen to the audiobook while driving or doing chores, have the book on my phone/Kindle while at work/in public. Trying to flip-flop between the 3 can be a little tedious with trying to figure out where you left off in each format, but I've been crushing books since I started doing this.
I used to go to bed with my phone and kindle and I would naturally gravitate to my phone which would keep me up for an extra 2 hours. Now I go to bed only my kindle or a book and I sleep so much better and I squeeze in an extra 30 mins to an hour of reading everyday.
I have a reminder on my phone that blasts me to read an hour during lunch or at least at the end of the day. Me typing this lined right up with your first tip which is the same thing LOL. Instant like on the video
Great advice. I got back into reading the start of this year. Part of my new years resolution. I already follow ine of them. By switching up genre and styles between books. I've only read paper books so far. But want to get into other formats. I'd be too worried about checking my phone with ebooks. The reading an hour before bed is one I'm going to try tonight as I usually just watch youtube an bour before going to sleep.
Thank you! I've read 10 pages of Joyland by Stephen King like 2 weeks ago, I will put some of your tips in practice today and try to finish the book in my own time
My philosophy: If I've spent a lot of time in a book I'm not enjoying, quiting doesn't mean wasting that time, it means not wasting more.
Also, reading a book I don't like to the end isn't going to make it worth the money I paid 🤷
I leave this here just in case someone finds this thought helpful :)
Agreed, putting down books I was not enjoying was a game changer for me regarding the number of books I could read. While I am reading a book I don't enjoy, I am not enjoying a book I could be reading (if that makes any sense)
100%!! You’re not going to get the money back if you keep reading, so why are you wasting your time?
Yes!! Agree totally!
Forcing myself to keep reading a book I don't like will also keep me from reading anything at all. Because if I don't like it I'm just gonna find something else to do instead of read.
0:44 1. No screens before bed
2:47 2. Read multiple types of books
4:30 3. Try different mediums
7:53 4. Take a break if a book isn't enjoyable
9:51 5. Join a book group
Having an E-reader was a game changer for me. It made me able to read anytime anywhere without the constraints of having physical books. Best part is I got my whole library in my pocket now.
I’m 22 now. When I was 12 my grandma gave me an e-reader because ebooks are cheaper and I was a broke teenager. Last year, I put all my books in StoryGraph (the ones I can remember) and I was shocked at how many big books I’ve read as a child/teen. Because of the format I didn’t realise that almost every book I’ve read is 300+ pages long. I think that I would have never picked those books up physically out of big book fear in my early teens.
I must be a freak then, i restarted reading a few years ago, with the dark tower series, and now the wheel of time, so a 400 page book is now very small lol
I regularly read 1000-1200+ pages books but if I see them in their physical forms I still think reading a book that big would be insane while I already do that all the time. I can't even picture myself turning that many pages.
@@arcanethink its surely a psychological factor i agree, i now rend them on my kobo e reader, but its for financial reason, i read so much books now that buying them physically would cost too much in a year i thinkl ive now read 7 books in 2 months, that would be way too much money for physical copies, since i like them paperback or even hardcover.
@@neme6ben I do it cause it's way cheaper plus I absolutely do not have space to store 1k page fantasy book series anywhere xD
@@arcanethink @neme6ben same, I started reading ebooks because I was a broke teen and that fear of a large physical book is still somewhat here. Although it turned into ‘no A big book will take me long to read while I also wanna read all these 300 other books.
But because of ebooks i just didn’t realise as a 12yo that I was reading the exact books I was ‘afraid’. I just found that funny when I saw that. Now I mainly read ebooks cause it’s cheaper, I read quite fast and I don’t have much space for physical books anyway.
I've struggled to reach for ebooks, but I'm considering trying some small books. The epic fantasy ones I have so much joy by reading them physically.
Same.
Once you start using that Libby app it totally changes how you view eBooks. Being able to borrow and return books to the library while never leaving your couch is so nice. And the selection is usually much larger because you don't have to worry about interlibrary loans and transfers. It's just all available to you now.
The other nice part is highlights. A LOT of the non-fiction that I read I have sections that I mark up and return to for reference later. Having electronic highlights that you can search using key words is amazing. Even with fiction it's nice to highlight your favorite sections.
Lastly, it makes travel much easier. Since I'm usually reading four books at once I typically use up a lot of room in my luggage just for books. But a single Kindle is much easier. It also allows you to jump back and forth between audio and actually reading if that's a thing you're into.
I still have hundreds of physical books. And I adore my physical books. But the eBook has made some serious inroads with me.
I've definitely cut down on book expenditures by reading almost exclusively on Libby (though I hate it and miss Overdrive) and Hoopla.
there are so helpful even during breaks at work. I finished 2 books in a month from my 10 minute breaks lol.
Everybody is different, of course, but I am not lying to you when I say that I think that every reader that I've come across, in real life or online, who tried out ebooks ended up liking them - and I mean *every one!*
I like physical books myself and was equally skeptical. I still like physical books but since I've been trying out ebooks I've changed my mind. Both formats have their place - in fact, the best combination (and also the most expensive 😛) is probably to have the same book in both formats.
I'm not trying to convince you, I don't have a stake in ebooks - but I'd suggest you just give it a try.
Pick an older classic you always were interested to read - if it's in public domain chances are very high that it's available at Project Gutenberg or Project Gutenberg Australia (two different sites that complement each other due to copyright laws).
I dont know who needs to read this, but I know you’re out there.
Discworld is the perfect palate cleansing series when you’re in a slump.
Pratchett’s style is so unique, it will refresh you no matter what you were reading.
I wake up at six every morning and read for an hour before getting out of bed. It gives me plus one hour of reading besides my nighttime read and my brain the boost it needs for the day.
I am one of those people who, if I try to read in bed, I get a few paragraphs in and then it's... ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ. Sigh. I hate it.
I feel like Daniel should make a response to this video with very impractical book reading tips.
I read about 1-1.5 hours before bed. Granted, it's mostly with the Kindle, but it has still improved my sleep a bit and has allowed me to read more. I've been averaging 2 books a week so far this year. It's early, but it's now become a goal of mine to keep up that pace.
I’m a strict one-book-per-format-at-a-time reader, but I actually love the idea of the 10-page-a-day rule for a book I’m struggling to get through and then switching to something else. I’ll have to try that next time I’m struggling!
Have photographic memory and see the pages everytime you close your eyes
The screen time thing is honestly probably the best tip I can give people, and not just for reading. Just in general. Like I started cutting back on screen time/social media years ago at first to avoid having a movie or game or whatever spoiled for me before I could see/play it but after that I just rediscovered how much time I'd spend mindlessly scrolling lol. Obviously I still do at times, but just having that time "back" has completely reinvigorated my joy of reading over the last 7-8 years honestly.
Also, the having books on your phone has also been a game changer, especially for those long lines at the grocery store or the doctors office haha.
The image of Merphy reading under the covers is… 🥺☺️🥰😍
Nice tips. I also recommend reading mangas or comic books if you're in a slump since those are easy to go through. Sometimes you have so many things to do and feel lazy to pick a book, but mangas are simpler and faster.
Not simpler, just faster to read!
Yes! Reading manga is my go-to when I’m feeling like I’m getting into a slump!
Listening to audiobooks has been a game changer
I went from 0 books a year to ~20 last year !
Wheel of Time Series
Red Sister
The Poppy War
Threebody Problem / Dark Forest
Mistborn 1
Stormlight Archive 1 & 2 (currently listening to)
It's like a whole new world is opening up to me !
I need to get into Audiobooks. I'm a slow reader and 20 books a year is about my average and I want to read more because I have an ever growing TBR list.
SAME! I didnt get into reading till a few years ago and I hated how slowly I was getting through books cuz I predominately read brick size fantasy novels. So glad I tried audible and after a year I decided to get a premium account cuz Im just mowing them down now.
Getting ebooks from the library has definitely helped me read more. Easier access, not having to buy so many books, I don't feel bad moving on from a book I'm not enjoying because I didn't spend money on it, and I get audiobooks from my library for when I'm driving.
I'm so grateful for my local library and its digital collection :)
I've never been a reader, but finally bought an ereader. I read a lot more now, not only because it's easier on the eyes, but also because I spent so much money on it to waste. I've also been writing my thoughts on every book I read no matter how short, just for myself, not even for reviewing. Therefore I can actually find my own thoughts later on instead of being asked about a book and not remembering anything from it.
I find getting my reading done in the morning has increased the amount I get done and it improves my mood for the rest of the day. That hour or so in the morning with my kindle and cup of tea, before I have to do anything, is glorious.
Audiobooks are valid, I multitask casual games while listening to epic fantasies
Ebooks from library + reading 10 books at once is my tip. It works, its free and youre never bored
Awesome tips! I'll add mine:
- Have something prepared after finishing a book. I've been in plenty of situations where I didn't know what to read after finishing another book, and it takes me weeks to then decide what to read next. Complete waste of time. This is when a SHORT TBR really comes in handy.
- But also don't be afraid to change your TBR if you find your mood has shifted.
- Lastly, tracking your reading progress (like in Storygraph or a journal) can motivate to read more.
Happy reading everyone!
I’ve gotten into a habit of carving out time to read in the mornings at breakfast, especially once I’ve finished eating and am sipping my coffee (I have trouble reading and eating simultaneously). It doesn’t always work well, sometimes other family members get up earlier than usual and it can be hard for me to focus when other people are bustling around, but there are days when it works like a gem and sometimes is the only reading I get that day. I’m getting into the habit of audiobooks and having an ebook on my phone as well, but I am going to work on turning off screens in the evening; your suggested time frame is very helpful! It’s like, I’ve always known in theory it’s good to turn off screens before bed, but I either didn’t know or just plain forgot how long before bed, so just kind of…didn’t do it. (Hopefully that’ll help the occasional insomnia too, lol)
I've also been reading in the morning at breakfast! It's great but like you said, if someone else got up earlier than usual it much harder to read (even though I'm good at reading in busy places generally)
My biggest hurdle is every time I find a book I really like, I want to start it over and read it to my husband (who's not a reader but loves stories), because discussing stories with others is the best! Appreciate the tips!
One thing that helps me get motivated to read is watching your videos and hearing you talk about books with such passion, just makes me wanna enjoy them just like you do ☺️
Joining your Patreon Discord has greatly increased the number of books I read. It has also been a great place to help me read more out of my normal genres, and with all the great recommendations from members I have read fewer bad books.
But like you said the friendships made on Discord have been the greatest part about joining, such a wonderful community.
(Plus I get to see videos early and confuse viewers when comments are posted before videos are released)
How can I join the server?
@@mohammadmuneeb3597 Become a Partron on Patreon
You can also try the app called Byzans
I really like using the continuous scroll option for kindle on my phone. It gives me the feeling of endless scrolling but I'm actually reading a book. And it has helped me break my 'must read til the end of the chapter' habit. I find it easier to pick up and read on the toilet or at doctors offices because it's just like scrolling on social media.
Great video with some practical tips. Just finished a book that didnt appeal to me in the first few pages but gradually my pace picked up.
And for me usually, I have that 1 day when I finish around 40 percent of the book, and I look forward to that day in every book that I read.
Thank you Merph ...I often have suicidal thoughts but books and your videos gives me comfort ...I'm not exaggerating here . You really do help me with coping my stress ...I dunno why but I think you are my comfort person 💗
Thanks for straightening your bookshelf. I was loosing my mind the first 45 seconds there 😆
When I read Malazan Book of the Fallen, somewhere around the end of the fourth book, I made a rule for myself.
One chapter a day - not counting Prologues and Epilogues, I doubled up on those as necessary - first thing in the morning before I allowed myself to read anything else. This got me through the latter six books in just shy of six months.
Thank you for the ebook love! I’ve read so much more since keeping ebooks on my phone. I mostly read romance that way because it’s usually chill and lighthearted.
These solid tips! I find reading on my phone to be the best use of my time. I also recently started reading before I go to bed and it really does help with having a more restful sleep!!
Reading under lantern light is pretty dang epic!
Lots of great tips here. The screen-time one is really one I need to try. I do make an effort to not spend too much time on my phone, but temptation to continue to text and keep up with friends is always there. I have recently set a "bedtime" warning on my phone to activate at 10pm, so that's something, but I need to try harder!
Having multiple books going at one time has been a gamechanger the past few years. I typically have three going at any one time. A "fun" fiction book, a history/science/educational book, and a theological/religious/philosophical book. It has really helped, because, as you said...sometimes you get in a rut with one book or aren't quite feeling it. If you have a few other books going, you can immediately switch to one of those! And it has helped diversify my reading, which is never a bad thing. This is the one single thing that has helped me the most!
Something that's helped me quite a bit as well (I guess kinda touched upon in the screens discussion) is just getting away from my computer and my "routine work space" (which lately has been home!) and finding new places to read that are *just for reading*. After work, I've made it a priority to get some physical activity time (workout, walk, etc) and then I will go to my front porch and read. Get away from my computer. Get away from my office set-up. Put myself somewhere I cannot be distracted and can just read. Obviously not possible for everyone, but it's helped me to just find a spot that I can call my reading spot and can disconnect from the wider world and curl up and get lost in a good book...
I've been borrowing a lot of ebooks and audio books from the library through Libby and it has made me read much more, in part, because I want to finish each one before it gets pulled back from my device! Also great that they're free, of course.
Reading with Friends and discuss books is a really good way to keep on reading more books. It really motivates a person. Yes, There is a lot of books out there, I do agree with you that you can put down a book if you don't like it. I do the same as you at night. Turn everything off, read for an hour. It really helps with sleep and making life in general better.
Your casual mention of your dyslexia while reading is perhaps one of your biggest passions is yet another example of the amazing ability of humans to overcome their weaknesses. Recently I have become aware of so many examples of people adapting and overcoming their limitations. A visually impaired photographer, a nine-fingered pianist, the paralympians. I’m in awe of all of you.
These tips are fantastic and I'm so glad you include ebooks. I get through books so much faster when I have them on my phone.
I’ve basically taken control of my schedule to where I substitute my down time that would be used to being all over social media to reading. I find more free time in my schedule and I’m using it now for reading versus scrolling online. Thanks for the video!
One great thing about Kindle ebooks for dyslexics is you can switch the font to OpenDyslexic which is designed to help. Also you can change the size, line spacing, and margins. I know these things and the fact my eyes don't have as much space to wonder are so helpful for me as someone with dyslexia. I can read faster and longer. I still love the feel of a physical book and I adore audiobooks but ebooks can be tweaked to help support my reading.
Just thought I'd share.
I quit facebook for real a month ago. I've read 5 books since. That's about as much as I might read in a year. I thought it would be hard to quit facebook, but with this newfound quality replacement, I haven't even cared to go back even once. And I didn't even delete the app (I hid it in a random folder in my phone because my ex's wedding is being planned for later this year through it, so I'll need to check in occasionally). I'm really proud of myself.
Thanks for this. When I clicked I thought: well, she is probably not a working wife and mom as me, but maybe I'll grab a useful tip. So encouraging to hear useful tips from another momma!
I have my library’s app on my phone so I use that for the easier more light hearted books that I don’t necessarily want to be spending all my money on which I’ve found really helpful
It’s been 3 years since I’ve touched a book. In December I got gifted a tablet, I decided to start reading one peace. I still struggle to be consistent, but I’m just happy I started reading again.
I prefer to read in the morning. I wake up maybe an hour earlier just to get that extra time of quiet. My attention span is sharper and it is more relaxing than just jumping out of the bed. Obviously people have different family situations and so on that would make it hard, but it helped me a lot.
I just found your channel a few weeks ago and have been bingeing ever since. I need to get back to reading but the content is so insightful.
Because I write more than I read at this point, I alternate between doing one or the other in the evening. Now, depending on the writing/reading session, I may or may not stay up night excited to explore a conflict or find out what happens next. It still beats looking at screens all evening (unless I'm writing all night on my laptop... oops).
I feel supported by the last tip because writing, like reading, can feel very solitary at times. Just like it makes me glow inside to discuss an amazing story I'm enjoying with a friend (movie, book, tv-show, anime, and such), it can make my day to talk with a friend about our ideas for characters and worlds. It's interesting that both sides of the reader/writer coin have some parallels in that way.
Thanks for this, ive recently got back into reading, but started off with a fairly heavy non-fiction. Hearing someone say I can stop and read something light for a while really helped me to keep motivation.
I work nights and my schedule makes it really hard to read before bed, but I've taken this week off and am sleeping during a normal hour, so I've been reading before I go to bed and and in just a couple of days, it has made a substantial difference for my sleep schedule! Can't wait for the day when my schedule is my own.
Prime Reading has Amazon Classics for classic books that combines ebook and audiobooks. Normally i wouldnt get both because of price but this is a very nice way to experience old books for (pretty much) free. Also the combination of seeing the words and having them read to me feels like the easiest way for me to consume older books.
I agree with the ebook point. I tend to read chunky books on my kindle as it is so much easier to hold and I read faster. I do love actual books aswell, but I read smaller books that way.
These are some of the best tips I've seen on this topic. I especially like #5 - Find your nerds! I recently just did my first buddy read and it was an amazing experience. We read a book I had actually read before, but I came away loving it even more because of the shared experience and being able to talk about it.
I’ve learned to stop feeling bad about possibly putting a book aside for months. I even read comics mostly too. Putting a book down also doesn’t mean I wasn’t liking it, just something else grabbed me more. Coming back to something later is such a great tip. I’m loving the mangas Vinland Saga & Spy X Family right now. One is a grim Viking, Coming of Age, War Epic. The other is an Action Comedy where everyone in the family, including the child, has a secret they’re keeping while the “Father” is running a spy operation that requires him to generate a family because his target occasionally socializes within an elite private school community. It’s quick, tightly characterized, action packed and hilarious. I’ve come to love both very quickly. I’ll still go back to North American comics, just need a change of pace at times.
I’ve read more books in the past month since discovering this channel just out of a newfound excitement for reading 😅 I *want* to start reading before bed instead of scrolling, but I always seem to forget that at bedtime so I need to work on that for sure.
Thank you so much for this video, Merphy! This makes me feel so much better. I know my biggest problem is screen time before bed, but my trouble with the tip is knowing when I'm going to bed, to then cut out the hour of screen time before bed. I'm a grad student and so I'm constantly working on assignments and when you're a night owl who works best at night, it's hard to set a bed time.
I do love my Kobo for reading e-books (from the library or from the Kobo store!) And I agree I feel like I read more since I can adjust the font and the size of the font!
same issue here!
I'm considerably older than you, I'm sure and a night owl by nature. Screen time will mess with you, so maybe forbid it entirely in your bedroom or sleep area (or reading spot) while keeping a stack of books or your reader there. Make it the coziest space, with warm dimmer light. If there are exceptions to the screen ban, you'll take advantage.
Great tips for reading Merphy. I totally agree with all of them and I practice all of them. They work!! Thanks for sharing.
Since last year, I wanted to read more so I've started to read during breakfast (I live alone) and it was a life changer. I don't have a preset amount of time to read. It depends on the book, so it doesn't feel like an obligation. Sometimes I read 5 pages and sometimes I read for one hour. Not only it helps me to read more books, but also I start my day more relax :D
I'm primarily an audiobook person, it just fits into things way easier and there are always tons of deals (including free books) on Audible. I usually alternate between fiction and non-fiction. And typically I'll do one or two shorter books and then go back to the epic novels. It's nice to get that sense of accomplishment from the shorter books.
I do tip 2 and it has literally changed my life.. I find that I can read more now and stay focused because i'm jumping between stories without staying focused on one.. I read or finish 3 books in one month instead of just one. It's a life saver
Joining a local book club is another way to help read more books. I joined one a few years ago and it got me back into reading, and it got me reading books I normally wouldn't grab on my own(most of which I thoroughly enjoyed). When I moved I started my own book club and it's still great! I read what I love(fantasy), and I read what others recommend, and then we discuss them!
The thing that helped me a lot with reading more was to read while traveling. Usually during your daily commute from work/school to home.
I’ve been alternating formats and genres and that has really worked great for me. Currrently I’m listening to A song of ice and fire on Audible while at work (My job allows me to listen to stuff 8 hours a day) and when I feel like reading physically, I have One Piece to dive into. I’m also working on Wheel of Time, but currently I’m reading that along a first time reader podcast so that is kind of a weekly thing. The variety really helps me get through more stuff and I love it.
I have two audiobooks going at a time. One on my computer and one on my phone. I have the rule that the only time I can listen to the one on my phone is when I am out doing errands. This actually helps me to get out of the house more. Otherwise I would only leave the house one day a week to get groceries.
These are some great tips, can't wait to try the first one
Reading multiple books at once is something I have been meaning to try. I usually have a printed book and an audiobook going at the same time (different books. I buy enough books as it is, don't need to buy the same book in two formats) but I could do more. I just bought the second book in the Malazan series, and there is no way I am reading that in one go. Alternating with a lighter read might help. My daughter always has 4-5 novels going at the same time, and she probably reads more than me (she's 9, and quite proud of out-reading her mom). But the social aspect is probably what I am missing the most.
I love the tip about reading just 10 pages every day for more challenging books. I'll try that with The Count of Monte Cristo. I always wanted to read it, but was daunted by the size.
Awesome tips! I’ve been doing tips 1-4 without realizing it and went from 6 books in 2020 to 20 books in 2021. My goal is 24 this year. These truly do help!
I find that some books can be a slog and hit slow parts. As a result I often am prone to just set it down and am discouraged to get back into it. Sometimes it becomes a DNF simply because I couldn't push through.
My solution is that I read multiple books at the same time which allows me to jump back and forth. If I hit a tough spot I push as far as I can and then read something different. I usually have four books going at once - a classic fiction, a non-classic fiction (mostly SciFi/Fantasy), a political non-fiction and a wildcard non-fiction.
About the first tip, also read with an adecuate light. If your turn off the phone to avoid the blue light while you have a blue light in your room or wherever you are reading, you are efectively doing nothing. So yeah, careful about your home lights also.
Tips mentioned:
1. no screens before bed
2.read multiple types of book
3.ebooks and audiobooks help
4.quitting some books if necessary
5.join book club or talk about books with someone.
I have a rough time with audio books, but it's wonderful for people who like them or find them helpful.
Ebooks are nice for library and cheap books.
I've just recently gotten into "multiple books at once". It helps to be able to pick up a book based on mood (thought provoking non-fiction, fun easy fiction, and deep intense fiction is the three I have found I like in the last week at least)
"And sometimes I play the Sims", you said it casually, but I felt so understood haha. Great tips!
I always said I could never use a kindle or others like it. I bought myself the basic kindle and I’m absolutely in love with it. I find that I don’t get overwhelmed with a book because I can only see one page at a time vs 500-700 pages with a tradition book.
I do like reading multiple books at once and in different formats. I primarily read ebooks (love them so much!!!) but I've really made an effort to read more audiobooks this year. I used to struggle with retaining/listening to audiobooks but I've figured out that I need to be doing something mindless but busywork while listening to audiobooks. So any time I am cleaning, folding laundry, cooking, walking the dog, or something like, I try to listen to an audiobook and I'm listening at double speed so I've literally doubled the amount I read per month by incorporating audiobooks. I also find that there are some books I think I enjoy much more in audiobook format because the narrator is so fantastic. Or books that I would struggle through reading on my own like classics--these are a great option to read as an audiobook instead!
Also wanted to add something I love about ebooks is being able to read in dark mode. Reading physical books is really tiring to my eyes. Plus it's nice to read an ebook in bed and be able to fall asleep quickly because I have the screen brightness all the way down and don't have to worry about putting the book up/turning off a light. It's pretty fantastic 😊
I prefer to go through audiobooks as "re-reads" of things I've already done myself with the physical text. I know the story already and if my mind wanders a little it's not a huge deal.
But you're totally right about some narrators. The good ones make a series so much fun (Jim Dale that did the Harry Potter books was excellent for instance). But a bad narrator can really ruin it. Tom Clancy's "Red Storm Rising" is an amazing book but incredibly long and dense. Audio seemed to make sense for a re-read but the narrator they chose is absolute trash. DNF.
6:25 can confirm, yesterday I had like a 50 page submission and only one day to do it so I was in a lot of stress, and when I took my break for some reason I decided to read the eye of the world instead of scrolling RUclips and that made a world of difference relieving most of my stress and letting me get back to my work in a much more positive mindset
Reading multiple types of books is something I’ve only recently started doing, currently I’m Reading Wheel of time(I’m on the 4th one now), To Kill a Mockingbird, and Percy Jackson(just finished Lightning Thief). I’m also listing to The Little Princess on audiobook.
If you want a pallet cleanser try The Dresden Files. Super fun books that are very easy to read.
I've always read a reasonable amount but I find periodically I hit a reading block and, if I'm not careful, I'll not read anything for days. I've always found the quickest and best way to break out of that is to go back to a slim book that I love for a re-read. I find The Hitch-Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy a good choice. Or a Terry Pratchett novel. And I definitely like to have more than one book on the go at a time especially when one of them is particularly difficult and/or long. You need to clear your palate occasionally. I used to ruthlessly not DNF books but I'm coming to the conclusion I should change my rules on that. I'm getting old. I don't have the time to read books I'm not enjoying.
Your breaks only last for days? Mine are often weeks...
@@FM95.5 days and weeks? I go months. I’m currently almost a month into a reading slump after I finished The Stand
@@FM95.5 My longest is years hahaha. I only came back because of this pandemic, coming back to old hobbies and just recently rekindled my love for reading.
@@vincelumba2801 well hopefully it sticks around this time haha.
@@BonesNeverLie well mean weeks turn to months pretty dang quick lol
I decided to pause this video and watch later to go sit in the couch right now and read my book. 😊
I recently started reading first thing in the morning which has unabled me to read so much more. On week days i don't always have time, but the weekends are now carved out for me and my book 📖
I just finish everything for the day and read for 2 hours before bed. I can't concentrate on reading during the day so it's perfect for me.
As I'm getting ready for bed I listen to an audio book. I sleep so much better since doing that. A lot of my non fiction reading is through audio books.
Reading before bed is something I do since childhood. I always try to read at least one paragraph (when I’m really tired) but I will open that book. I also like to switch between YA and adult fantasy when I need some reading boost. I’m a mood reader and I wanted to start Stormlight before Christmas, but I caught myself in fantasy romance, there are 3 books out, each has over 600 pages, by the end of the third book I was tired of the romance and got excited for epic fantasy story even more than I was before Christmas. And I think that is partially the reason why I’m eating up Stormlight from page 1, unlike Mistborn that was a bit draggy for me.
I try to read an hour or two before bed and it definitely helps to get more sleep. I don't know how many times I've woke up with my book on my chest with my book light dead. What really helps me is that I read on my breaks at work.
Wattpad is also a wonderful asset for digital reading because now your also supporting small writers
These tips are so useful I will use and try some of these I love your channel .thank you for good book recommendations every week.
Diversifying genres, format, media, and age group really helped reading faster
Audio books changed my life. Of course I wish I could sit and read but audio books allow you to fill the monotonous tasks of life with something you love! Driving, Cleaning, working out you name it. You can really get through some titles.
Don't sleep on that multiple mediums tip. It's definitely been a game changer for me. My personal setup is: start the book on physical and read the physical book at home, listen to the audiobook while driving or doing chores, have the book on my phone/Kindle while at work/in public. Trying to flip-flop between the 3 can be a little tedious with trying to figure out where you left off in each format, but I've been crushing books since I started doing this.
Thank you for this video, Merphy!!!
This was so full of quality! Love your content!
I used to go to bed with my phone and kindle and I would naturally gravitate to my phone which would keep me up for an extra 2 hours.
Now I go to bed only my kindle or a book and I sleep so much better and I squeeze in an extra 30 mins to an hour of reading everyday.
Happy with my reading speed rn, just here to support the content, love ya Merph!
Same
I read three concurrently.
A primary read, a backup if I don't feel like reading it, and a third for quick moments like waiting in line. 😉
I have a reminder on my phone that blasts me to read an hour during lunch or at least at the end of the day. Me typing this lined right up with your first tip which is the same thing LOL. Instant like on the video
Thanks for this one merph!! Definitely gonna try some of these. Those cut aways were making me laugh 😆 awesome video.
Thank you so much for these tips I love them. 🙂
Wow I really needed this, thank you Merphy
Great advice. I got back into reading the start of this year. Part of my new years resolution. I already follow ine of them. By switching up genre and styles between books. I've only read paper books so far. But want to get into other formats. I'd be too worried about checking my phone with ebooks. The reading an hour before bed is one I'm going to try tonight as I usually just watch youtube an bour before going to sleep.
Thank you! I've read 10 pages of Joyland by Stephen King like 2 weeks ago, I will put some of your tips in practice today and try to finish the book in my own time