How to Read More: 12 Book-ish Things to Help Clear Your To-Read List
From tiny habits to mindset shifts, these book-loving tips make reading feel joyful—not overwhelming.”
If your to-read list keeps growing faster than you can turn pages, you’re not alone. Many book lovers dream of reading more, yet struggle to find the time, focus, or momentum to actually do it. Between busy schedules, digital distractions, and reading slumps, even the most enthusiastic readers can feel stuck. The good news? Reading more isn’t about speed or pressure—it’s about building habits that fit naturally into your life.
Here are 12 book-ish, practical ways to finally start clearing that to-read list and rediscover the joy of reading.
1. Ditch the Guilt Around Unfinished Books
Not every book is meant for you at this moment. If a title isn’t clicking after a fair try, give yourself permission to stop. Letting go of unread or half-read books creates mental space—and motivation—for books you’ll truly enjoy.
2. Read Multiple Books at Once
Contrary to popular belief, reading several books simultaneously can boost your reading life. A novel for bedtime, a non-fiction book for mornings, and a short story collection for quick breaks allow you to read according to your mood and energy level.
3. Always Carry a Book (or E-Reader)
Idle moments add up. Waiting in lines, commuting, or sitting between appointments can become reading time if you always have a book handy. Even 10 minutes a day can translate into dozens of finished books over a year.
4. Set a Daily Page Goal—Not a Time Goal
Instead of saying “I’ll read for 30 minutes,” try “I’ll read 10 pages.” Page goals feel more achievable and measurable, helping you maintain consistency without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Replace Doom-Scrolling With Page-Turning
Social media often steals reading time without us realizing it. Try a simple rule: read for 10 minutes before opening any social app. This small habit shift can dramatically increase your reading hours.
6. Create a Reading Ritual
Rituals train your brain to associate reading with comfort. Whether it’s reading with morning tea, before bed, or during lunch breaks, attaching books to a routine makes reading automatic rather than optional.
7. Make Your To-Read List Work for You
An endless list can feel intimidating. Break it into smaller categories like “Read This Month,” “Quick Reads,” or “Comfort Books.” Prioritizing makes the list motivating instead of stressful.
8. Embrace Audiobooks Without Shame
Audiobooks count. Whether you’re driving, cooking, or exercising, listening to books keeps stories flowing through your life. Many readers find audiobooks help them finish more titles than print alone.
9. Read What Excites You—Not What You “Should” Read
Reading isn’t a competition. If thrillers, romance, or fantasy excite you, read them proudly. Enjoyment is the strongest motivator for consistency, not literary prestige.
10. Join a Reading Community
Book clubs, reading challenges, or online communities create accountability and excitement. Discussing books with others can reignite enthusiasm and introduce you to titles you might never pick up otherwise.
11. Track Your Reading Progress
Seeing progress is powerful. Whether through a reading journal, app, or simple checklist, tracking books read reinforces your habit and gives a sense of accomplishment that fuels momentum.
12. Reread Old Favorites
When motivation is low, return to a beloved book. Rereading reminds you why you fell in love with reading in the first place and often acts as a gateway back to new books.
Reading More Is About Kindness, Not Discipline
Clearing your to-read list doesn’t require superhuman focus or massive lifestyle changes. It’s about removing pressure, choosing joy, and building small habits that last. When reading becomes something you look forward to—rather than another task—it naturally finds its place in your day.
Books aren’t meant to be conquered; they’re meant to be experienced. Start small, stay curious, and let stories meet you where you are. Your to-read list will shrink—not through force, but through love.
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