How to Read 50 Books a Year by Becoming a Reader
Do you want to read more books but find it a struggle? This guide will show you how to effortlessly read 50 books in a year. The key is not just to try harder, but to change how you see yourself. By embracing the identity of a “reader,” you can make reading a natural and enjoyable part of your life. We’ll explore simple yet powerful shifts to help you reach your reading goals without feeling overwhelmed.
What You Will Learn
This article will guide you through a simple but effective strategy to increase your reading volume. You will learn how to:
- Shift your mindset to embrace the identity of a reader.
- Incorporate reading into everyday moments.
- Make reading a consistent habit before sleep.
- Understand how identity change supports habit formation.
Prerequisites
- A desire to read more books.
- Access to books (physical, e-books, or audiobooks).
Steps to Effortlessly Read 50 Books a Year
Adopt the Identity of a Reader
The most effective way to read more is to start thinking of yourself as a reader. When you tell yourself, “I am a reader,” you begin to believe it. This mental shift makes all the difference. It’s like deciding you are a runner; suddenly, you start thinking about running shoes and morning jogs. Similarly, embracing the reader identity changes your perspective on reading, making it feel natural rather than like a chore.
Always Carry a Book With You
A true reader is never without a book. Make it a habit to carry a book, whether it’s a physical copy or on your e-reader. Think about those small pockets of time that often go unused. You might have 10 or 15 minutes while waiting for an appointment, during your commute, or even while taking a short break. Instead of pulling out your phone, you can pull out your book and read a few pages. These small reading sessions add up significantly over time.
Expert Tip: Keep your book in a place you’ll always see it, like your bag or coat pocket. This constant reminder makes it easy to grab and read.
Read During Downtime Instead of Scrolling
Consider where you currently spend your downtime. Many people spend significant time scrolling through social media or browsing the internet. A reader would choose to read during these moments. For example, instead of scrolling on the toilet for 20 minutes, a reader might bring their book and read a chapter. This simple substitution turns wasted time into productive reading time. It’s about making a conscious choice to engage with your book instead of your phone.
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Reading Routine
The time before sleep is a perfect opportunity for reading. A dedicated reader would use this time to unwind with a book. Set up a comfortable reading spot by your bed. This could involve a good lamp and ensuring your book or e-reader is easily accessible. Instead of watching TV or scrolling on your phone right before bed, dedicate 30 minutes to reading. This routine signals to your brain that it’s time to relax and absorb information, making it easier to fall asleep and increasing your daily reading count.
Warning: Avoid reading on a device with a bright, blue light screen for too long, as it can interfere with sleep. Consider using a warm light filter or a physical book.
Understand Identity Drives Habits
The core principle here is that changing your habits becomes much easier when it stems from a change in your identity. When you see yourself as a reader, your actions naturally align with that identity. You’re not forcing yourself to read; you’re simply acting like who you believe you are. This makes the process feel effortless because it’s no longer a struggle against your own preferences. It becomes a natural expression of your chosen identity.
Think about it: if you believe you are a healthy person, you naturally choose healthier foods and exercise more. The same applies to reading. By genuinely adopting the identity of a reader, the desire and the actions to read 50 books a year will follow organically.
Conclusion
By shifting your identity to that of a reader and integrating reading into small, everyday moments and your pre-sleep routine, you can significantly increase the number of books you read. This approach makes reading feel less like a task and more like a natural part of who you are. Start today by telling yourself you are a reader, and let your actions follow suit.
Source: How to effortlessly read 50 books a year (YouTube)
