Reading is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that has countless benefits, including broadening our horizons, building our vocabulary, transporting us to new worlds, and more. It inspires us to stay creative and curious, so how can you read more in 2024?
It can be difficult to find the time to read with our busy schedules but reading more doesn’t have to be a challenge. By implementing a few changes in our daily routine, it can be incredibly easy to reach your reading goals for the new year.
How to Read More in 2024
1) Set a realistic goal We all want to aim high for the new year, but let’s approach our reading goals from a realistic standpoint. If you’re just getting back into reading, it’s a good idea to set a lower goal, as opposed to someone who’s achieved their reading goals each year.
When we set realistic goals, we set ourselves up for success. A good number for someone who’s just starting out would be anywhere from 5 – 10 books, and if you surpass that then great! As long as you set realistic goals for yourself, you’re more likely to reach them.
Did you know? A study by the University of Sussex has found that reading for just 6 minutes can reduce your stress levels by 68%. It works faster and is more effective than listening to music or even going for a walk!
2) Create an action plan Now that you’ve set your goal, you’re going to create an action plan for how you’re going to achieve it. By implementing a routine, you’ll be able to identify what steps you can take to reach your goals. A few things to think about include…
• Are you reading in the bedroom, living room, or making a cozy nook?
• Are you reading in the morning, afternoon, or evening?
• How many pages/chapters will you finish each day? (It’s good to base this on the book you’ll be reading because chapter lengths will vary)
• Stay consistent by using tools to record your progress like Goodreads
3) Explore new genres If you find yourself in a reading slump or uninspired by what you normally consume, try a new genre. I love browsing the aisles at the library, bookstores, and even Goodreads to see what’s new and trending in each genre.
When you step outside of your comfort zone, you may be surprised what you may discover. It’s a great way to expose yourself to new ideas and perspectives. I can almost guarantee you’ll find a few new ones to add to your list if you stay curious.
Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.
Charles w. eliot.
4) Read novellas/short stories Novellas and short stories are great options to add to your reading list, especially if you’re a mood reader. If you don’t feel like reading a long book or want something short for a car ride, they are ideal to help you stay on top of your reading goals.
Short stories can stimulate your mind and encourage you to think beyond the page. Poetry is a perfect example for this, every word is intentional, which gives you the opportunity to form your own thoughts and opinions on each piece.
5) Listen to audiobooks We all have our daily commutes, whether we’re driving, walking, or taking public transportation. Audiobooks are a great way to make use of your commute time. They create an engaging and immersive experience that can help you relax and stay entertained at the same time.
For the times where you don’t have time to read or don’t feel like it, audiobooks are a quick and easy way to enjoy your new book without falling behind on your reading goals for the year.
Did you know? Reading can improve our relationships with those around us. Studies have shown that reading literary fiction can helps us better understand the thoughts and emotions of others.
By setting realistic goals, creating an action plan, and trying new genres, you can easily achieve your goal for reading more in 2024. If you’re looking for book suggestions, visit my tag here. Do you want to read more this year? What are some of your tips for staying on top of your reading goals for 2024? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
RELATED POST: 3 Reasons Why You Should Read in the Morning
Sarah Collins says
Great tips, I try to keep my reading as varied as possible and make time every day to read – a lot easier because I commute by bus most days.
Her Digital Coffee says
That’s great, Sarah! Reading or listening to e-books is a great way to fill the time when commuting.
Lux G. says
This is really wonderful advice. What’s your reading goal this year?
Her Digital Coffee says
Thank you Lux! I’ve set my reading goal for 50 this year and I’m determined to reach it! 🙂
Klaudia Zuberska says
Great post, as always, you’re very inspiring! Thank you for your advice 🙂 It’s really important and helpful!
Her Digital Coffee says
Thank you so much Klaudia!
Candice Sandler says
Great post! Setting realistic goals, creating an action plan, and trying new genres are key to reading more in 2024. I’m excited to check out your book suggestions. Thanks for the inspiration!
Candice x
theblogsocial.com
Her Digital Coffee says
I’m so happy this served as inspiration! I’m looking to share my suggestions later this month. Thank you for reading Candice!
Nikki - Notes of Life says
My tip is to put my mobile phone down… I think that will be my secret for reading more this year.
Her Digital Coffee says
That’s a great tip, Nikki! Good luck on reaching your reading goals this year.
ER LeVar says
I always start the year with a low reading goal, because it can be so discouraging to be “behind” all year. It should be fun, right?
Her Digital Coffee says
It never feels good to be behind on your goal, so that’s a great idea! Happy reading!
Ferbena says
Thanks for sharing this idea.
Looking forward to the next post.
Happy new year 2024!
Her Digital Coffee says
Thank you Ferbena! Happy New Year!
Kal @ Reader Voracious says
Great post with realistic goals and suggestions. I especially loved the statistics that you included, amazing that only 6 minutes can reduce stress! I might have to bring a collection of poetry or something to work just to have on hand for quick breaks.
Her Digital Coffee says
It’s an eye opening statistic, isn’t it? I’m glad to hear you’ll be adding some poetry to your list. Not only are they short and sweet, but they get us thinking. Thank you for reading Kal!
Karalee says
This is fantastic advice on how to read more! My goal for 2023 was to read 12 books, but I smashed that goal by reading 41! I set my goal to 25 for this year! Also, I’m all for audiobooks. I listen to audiobooks when I’m cooking or cleaning, and it does help me read more books. Short books are great too because they don’t require a lot of commitment.
Her Digital Coffee says
Wow, that’s incredible Karalee! Congratulations on reaching 41. Shorter reads and audiobooks will definitely help in reaching our goals for 2024!
Molly | Transatlantic Notes says
I broadened what I read and it really did make a difference. I had a goal of 50 books last year, and I managed to exceed that, which was a first for me! I have the same goal this year as I feel it is what’s most realistic for me to achieve and something I will actually enjoy doing. These tips are very helpful, I will be adding more novellas into the mix throughout 2024!
Her Digital Coffee says
That’s awesome Molly! I’m happy to hear you exceeded your reading goal for 2023. I’m excited to branch out even further when it comes to new genres this year. Here’s to reaching our reading goals for 2024!
GWT says
I definitely write more than I read. Wait does reading my writing count? Haha! I’m quite intrigued by the University of Sussex’s findings. Your suggestion to embrace audiobooks is brilliant. Here’s to new reading material in 2024.
Her Digital Coffee says
Haha I’m sure it has to count! I hope you find some great books to add to your list this year. Thank you for reading!
Heidi | The Frugal Girls says
I loved your idea to create an action plan. My plan this year is to manage my screen time better, especially at night. Then to actually read the books I have before buying any new books. I find it so relaxing to read for awhile right before going to bed.
Her Digital Coffee says
That’s a great idea, Heidi! Reading before bed is one of my favorite things to do as well. It’ll definitely help with cutting down screen time. Thank you for reading!
Melissa says
These tips are great! I have always loved reading and am always looking to read even more. I agree that audio books and shorter novellas are a great way to get into reading. Thanks for sharing! I hope you have a happy new year!
https://melissakacar.com
Her Digital Coffee says
Thank you for reading Melissa. Happy New Year!
Caroline says
Lovely tips, I didn’t reach my reading goal last year so this year I have gone for 25 which is definitely do-able! x
Her Digital Coffee says
25 sounds great, Caroline! I hope you reach your goal this year. Thank you for reading!
Ranjana says
I do love reading books but unfortunately, I couldn’t find much time to read last year. These tips are most helpful. Happy New Year, Winnie. 🍸
Her Digital Coffee says
I’m glad they were helpful. Thank you for reading Ranjana and Happy New Year!
Jodie says
I love books and have found over and over again that reading is one of my biggest ways to reduce stress. Borrowing from the library is a great way to keep costs down too! Thanks for sharing.
Her Digital Coffee says
Absolutely! Utilizing the library is a great way to save money and discover some gems along the way. Thank you for reading Jodie!