Finding Time to Read

The other day chatting with a friend, they were amazed at the number of books I read per week.  They asked how did I squeeze it in?  I read eBooks, magazines, and paperbacks - there are reading materials everywhere at home and at work.  I also listen to audiobooks.  With this combination, I get through 2-3 books a week covering mysteries, thrillers, non-fiction, and cooking books.  Bascially, I love to read.  (I love TV and Movies too, but we're talking about books in this post). During the day it is not uncommon for an audiobook to be playing while I work (and yes, I do take it all in).  I have my Kindle app on my phone or tablet to read while waiting on friends for dinner or in a line. I have books and magazines next to my favorite chair at home, where I sit with a mug of tea.

Your love of reading may not be as great as mine, but you can find time to read with these tips from one of my favorite magazine's Real Simple.  The title is so fitting, 8 Ways to Find More Time to Read, Even If You’re Super Busy.  

I got my love of reading from my parents.  My mom, stepmom and dad, all read regularly.  We chat about and share book recomendations. In the post, Toni Morrison Remembered, I touched on my mom's love of reading and how she would bring home bags of books from the library.  While the bags may have lessened, with much of it being replaced with a digital library, the voraciousness remains.

One of the tips for those super busy is to break things up.  Sometimes this is done by reading a few minutes before bed. Though I read a lot, I'm not one for reading before bed. I get too involved. I find myself not stopping until the end, which often makes the next day very hard to get through. This is a trait, I share with my dad.  It is not uncommon for me to get a grumpy call after a night of reading a book recommendation to its completion, foregoing sleeping.  

For some, having a goal motivates you.  Using Goodreads you can set a goal for the number of books you want to read in a year can help.  I use Goodreads to keep track of what I've read and want to read, as well as currently reading.  I tend to have multiple books going, an eBook, an audiobook and paperback/hardback.  Basically, a "book" for each type of situation/place I'm in.  It is also great if you are reading series to know which ones you've read.  There are tons of reviews and recommendations.  You can even sync with your Amazon account.  

How do you fit in reading? Please share your tips for fitting reading in your life in the comments below.

Happy Reading!