Let’s face it, simply by the fact that we are college students attempting to voyage our way through one of the most convoluted times in our lives means that we are, by definition, very busy people. The brain power required to make it through a day of classes, work, and studying, paired with the pressure to read only classics of great literary merit make it very easy for Netflix to prevail after a long day of existing. However, I firmly believe that books still hold the same magic that they did when we were children, it may just take a little bit of research and shameless self-discovery.
Tip #1: Figure out what you like. Compile a list of books, TV shows, or movies that you could theoretically read/watch every day for the rest of your life and try to identify what these things have in common. It could be that a majority are science-fiction set in a different time period, or that they all feature an inspiring story about a pet-detective. Whatever these similarities may be, use this information to narrow down the infinite literary possibilities into something more manageable and personalized.
Tip #2: Join goodreads.com. This website is simultaneously the nerdiest and coolest thing that I have ever been a part of. You are able to log what books you have read in the past, indicate how much you enjoyed them, and the website makes personalized book suggestions based on your interests. The site’s other glamorous features include book reviews written by other members, the ability to interact with authors, book giveaways, and a service that allows you to set and track reading goals for yourself.
Tip #3: Be SHAMELESS. It might seem taboo to be a grown woman with an interest in Young Adult paranormal-romance, but I can assure you with complete certainty that nobody is judging you. Nobody actually cares that you are a 20-year-old college student curious about the fate of a fictional vampire couple, so strut up to that Barnes & Noble check out counter with pride. There is something very beautiful and unique about falling in love with a book, don’t let weird societal pressures keep you from exploring that!
Tip #4: Don’t be too hard on yourself. It is absolutely okay to set small reading goals for yourself, but making it a chore will quickly turn a pleasurable experience into one that is arduous and exhausting. Our lives are way more consuming than they were when we were 12 and able to dedicate copious time to a book about dragons, so don’t feel guilty if you aren’t able to get through a novel as quickly as before. Take your time, find a comfy spot to snuggle into whenever you can, and delve in to the story for as long as you are able. Reading is meant to be relaxing, after all!