Brief Summary
This video provides five strategies for people who struggle with reading to develop a reading habit, retain information, and enjoy the process. The tips include starting with minimal goals, reading before using the internet, pairing reading with existing habits, utilizing audiobooks, and changing one's attitude towards reading. By implementing these strategies, individuals can overcome distractions, build mental resistance, and make reading a more enjoyable and beneficial part of their lives.
- Start with minimal goals like reading one page a day.
- Read before using the internet to avoid distractions.
- Pair reading with existing habits like drinking coffee.
- Utilize audiobooks to multitask and soak in information.
- Change your attitude towards reading to break down mental barriers.
Don't Overachieve
To successfully start reading, it's important to set achievable goals. Instead of aiming for a book a week, begin with a small, manageable task like reading just one page a day. This minimal goal, which takes about 60 seconds, is easy to accomplish and helps break into the habit of reading. While it's fine to read more if desired, the key is to consistently complete that one page to solidify the habit.
Read Before Going on the Internet
The internet can be a source of distraction and shallow thinking, making it harder to focus on reading. Checking social media before reading is compared to ruining one's palate with junk food before tasting fine wine. To avoid this, prioritize reading before engaging with the internet, such as reading first thing in the morning, to ensure the brain is fresh and receptive.
Bunch Your Habits
Habit bunching involves pairing a new habit with an existing one that you already enjoy. For example, if you regularly drink coffee in the morning, place the book you want to read next to the coffee maker. This way, you'll be reminded to read while you enjoy your coffee. Pairing habits not only makes it easier to adopt the new habit but can also make it more enjoyable.
Try Audiobooks
Audiobooks offer a way to absorb information while multitasking. Listening to audiobooks while working out is a great way to combine reading with another activity. Audible is mentioned as a good platform for audiobooks, and its subscription can be cost-effective for those who listen to about one book a month.
Change Your Attitude
Changing one's attitude towards reading is crucial. If you believe you hate reading, you'll create unnecessary mental resistance. By identifying as someone who enjoys reading, you can break down these mental barriers and find it easier to implement the other tips. A positive mindset makes the process of reading more accessible and enjoyable.
