If you’re anything like me, you’ve got a TBR stack up the wazoo. And to be honest, an activity that was once relaxing has turned to another major stressor–how, and more importantly, when, am I meant to find time to read for fun? Well, it is still possible, and I’m here to round up some of the best advice I’ve gotten to begin reading for fun once again.
1. Don’t Pressure Yourself
Okay, so this is, honestly, the most critical piece of advice if you want to give yourself the freedom to read books for fun. It can be hard. It can be hard. It can feel like extra work. It can be anxiety-inducing. But if you give yourself the time and proper resources, you’ll remember how rewarding it can be. So let yourself come around. You might be stressed or anxious about it now, but once you relax and give yourself the freedom to read as you please, you’ll be surprised at how satisfying it truly can be.
2. Pick Books That You Actually Want to Read
I’m guilty of this. My mom is guilty of this. My friends are guilty of this. Listen, everyone is guilty of this at one point or another. Don’t pick your books just because they’re New York Times Best Sellers or because everyone else is reading it! So you’re interested in YA Fantasy or Romance? Then read it! Don’t shy away from the things you love and enjoy just because they don’t seem ~elevated~ enough. You’re more literally to read something if you’re invested in the plot and the characters.
3. Bring Your Book With You Everywhere
So this can be tricky, especially if you either A) Don’t use a purse or bag or B) Are reading a particularly large book. So use this tip with your own discretion. One of the easiest ways to remember to take time to read is to bring your book with you constantly. 15 minutes on the train with no phone signal? Read. Awkward moment waiting for a class to start? Read. Filling in the gaps of your day with reading rather than scrolling through your Instagram once again can leave you feeling satisfied and productive.
4. It’s Okay to Take Your Time
Things can be stressful in college (as we all know)–between homework, trying to have a social life, and trying to maintain a normal sleep schedule. There may be days where you’ll read 50 pages, and some when you’ll forget that you’re even reading a book. The important thing is that you’re reading at all, and it doesn’t matter how long it takes for you to push through a book, so long as you continue.
5. Have Fun!
This might seem obvious, but more often than not people forget about it. Remember that reading for fun is just that: for fun! Don’t let yourself get bogged down by the stress of finishing a book faster than someone else, or by feeling like you’re not reading the “right” book. Make time for yourself to go to bookstores. Browse whatever sections you like, let yourself explore and have fun! And share the books you love. You never know who you’ll inspire to start reading next!