How to Read More

You can build your identity as a reader with structured practice, no matter where your skills are today. Here are some of my favorite techniques from beginner, through intermediate, and on to advanced. Think consistency over intensity.

Beginner – You will be surprised how much you can read with only these methods.

• Read books you like.
• Read at an easy / manageable difficulty level.
• Set a timer and read for 10 minutes. Do this every day, ideally at the same time of day.
• After a month of doing a single 10 minute a day session, add a second 10 minute session. Morning and evening work well for two-a-days.

Intermediate – When you’re ready for me

• Keep books everywhere you are. Read in line, in the waiting room, etc.
• Leave different books in different areas of the house.
• Read multiple books concurrently.

Advanced – For fun or grinding

• Read for long stretches while traveling or on vacation

You can set reading goals at any level if you want to. Goals work well if they are achievable but also push you to do more. If you set a goal, you need to be willing to prioritize it and deprioritize something else.