Discover the secrets to developing a consistent reading habit with practical tips and techniques. From the 21/90 formula to starting with your mother tongue, exploring comic books, and mastering new vocabulary, our guide offers actionable insights to make reading a natural part of your daily routine. Find out why print books might be the best choice to ensure you stick to your reading goals. Happy reading!
1. What Does Psychology Say About Habit
The second we hear something about a habit, we associate it with something that takes a lot of practice and effort. Any habit takes time and effort, and it can be challenging. However, with the 21/90 formula, you can sigh with relief because you have a clear road map.
By committing to reading every day for 21 straight days, you are setting yourself up for success. It’s okay if you start reading every day like a passive reader or can only read a few pages a day at the beginning.
Then what actually matters is your consistency and dedication to the routine for 21 days. As you progress through 21 days, you will become more confident and motivated to continue the Habit. Once you reach the 22nd day, reading will become a natural part of your routine. You may feel more confident in your ability to stick to the Habit without having to track the days anymore.
Your subconscious mind will be programmed to associate reading with your daily routine, making it easier for you to continue the pattern in the long term.
So, if you aspire to develop a reading habit, remember the 21/90 formula and give yourself the time and patience needed to build consistency. A good beginning is half the task, so mark your calendar, start your 21-day journey, and enjoy the benefits of reading as part of your daily life. Happy reading!
2. Get Started: Reading in Your Mother Tongue
You cannot catch up with your reading habit if the language you pursue reading in is not your native language. Yes, reading skills without the added challenge of struggling with a foreign language. Mastering the skill in the mother tongue will help you gain momentum and build confidence as a reader.
Secondly, reading in your mother tongue can also evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity. You should start reading books in a language you naturally understand. It will be more enjoyable and engaging, as you will fully appreciate the nuances of the language, connect with the culture, and grasp the intended meanings effortlessly.
This can motivate you to read more consistently, leading to a reading habit. Starting with books written in your native language can also help you build a strong foundation in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and language skills.
Once you have developed a solid reading habit in your mother tongue, you can gradually transition to reading in other languages, if desired, with a more substantial base from which to draw.
So, if you find it challenging to develop a reading habit in a language not your native tongue, consider starting with books written in your mother tongue. It can provide you with a kick-start, boost your confidence, and set you on a path toward a fulfilling reading habit.
3. Boost Your Reading Habit: Try Comic Books for Consistency
I bet you cease there if you’re reading books related to information, knowledge, science, and self-improvement. As a beginner, you’re often advised to start with comic books because they are easy to understand and retain. Comic books have an enticing vibe that stimulates you to continue reading and can help you develop almost 70% of your reading habits.
On the contrary, self-improvement and informative books may not be the best choice in the beginning stages of developing a reading habit. For example, when I set my reading habits, I started with ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective People’, still my favourite book.
However, I didn’t enjoy or benefit from it as a beginner. The same goes for other informative books as well. I’m sure you get the point!
4. Now It Becomes Easy to Master a Foreign Language
This is the interval stage of your journey to becoming a habitual reader. At this stage, you will have acquired enough reading sensibility, which is required before switching to the language you desire to master.
For example, if you want to improve your English verbal and written communication skills, you should opt for books that you find interesting.
But what about the first book you chose for your 21-day Habit? If you still need to finish it, don’t force yourself to switch to an English book directly. You can start your second book later.
The important thing you need to know here is that you will have laid the foundation of your reading habit at this point, and there is no chance that you will be annoyed while reading.
5. Struggling with Vocabulary? Try This Technique for Better Reading
I hear you; vocabulary can be frustrating! Many beginners quit reading or take breaks from daily reading when they come across difficult words that are challenging to pronounce. But fear not! After applying this technique, even obscure words will be a walk in the park for you.
I may have scared you with the word ‘obscure,’ but you get the point.
Whenever you encounter a new word, search for it on Google, take a screenshot, and save it for later.
After reading, choose three words and jot them down on sticky notes. Then, place the letters in frequently visited areas of your home, such as your washroom or cupboard door. By doing this, you will never forget those words, as you will have visually memorised them and repeated them multiple times throughout each day; our brain says:
“Use it or lose it.” This technique is derived from the concept of the “Forgetting Curve.”
6. Reading Two Different Books in Your Schedule
Are you someone who easily gets bored with repetitive tasks, like reading? If so, this is a great tip for you. Reading can require a lot of patience, and spending weeks on a single book might kill your reading habit, unless you’re prepared for it. That’s why I strongly recommend choosing two books of different genres.
The beauty of this approach is that if your first book is a lengthy one, the second book will change the pace. This way, you’ll stay entertained and your reading habits won’t be at risk of breaking.
7. Reading a Print Book Guarantees Your Reading Habit
When it comes to developing a reading habit, you might be wondering whether to opt for print or digital books. Let’s delve into why print books are more beneficial than digital ones. Unlike digital devices, print books won’t bombard you with pop-up notifications that break your concentration.
Reading a print book provides an uninterrupted and peaceful experience. Even if your phone is on silent, the urge to check messages or notifications can be hard to resist. In contrast, a print book ensures dedicated reading time without such distractions.
One major advantage of print books is the unique bond they help you form with the book itself. As the saying goes, “A book is a friend”; holding a book in your hands allows you to truly connect with it in its original form.
Did you know that excessive screen time can be harsh on the eyes and cause headaches? That’s why switching to print books can be a great way to foster a healthy reading routine. Plus, there’s something special about holding a physical book in your hand.
You can learn some interview tips here
Great Information