How to Read More Books

 

Reading is enjoyable and good for your health, increasing blood flow to your brain, improving cognitive function and, according to one studyby Stanford University, making you calmer and more empathetic. Here are seven tips to renew your reading regimen today:

Set a goal: Quantify your ambition (how many books in a certain timeframe). With a free account at Goodreads you can keep track of your book list, set goals and get Facebook friends to join in!

Try a theme: Dive deep into a single topic, author or field of study. Find hundreds of themed reading lists online, like this one.

Schedule nonnegotiable time: Set a block of time just for reading. Use your planner, set an alarm and commit to it.

Create a sanctuary: You don't need an entire reading room, just a space that's free of distractions. Make sure it's comfortable, lit well and somewhere you can leave books-in-progress.

Start a book club: Make the event part of a monthly lunch date, evening at a coffee shop or hosted at home with snacks. You don't have to make it highbrow—just a regular reading deadline and people to talk with about the book.

Pick your favorite format: The battle between e-books versus paper books rages on, and both sides have something to offer. If you spend the day on a computer, traditional books will spare eye fatigue. If small type is a torture, e-readers allow you to adjust font sizes and some e-reader covers come with a built-in light.

Visit the library: Most libraries carry the latest titles, including audiobooks. If you use an e-reader and have a library card, use the Overdrive app to virtually check out e-books and audiobooks from your local library.

Don't let yourself forget the joys of reading one minute longer. Set your reading goals today!

Source: Success.com