Jump Start Your Reading Schedule
by Campbell Sharpe
When my to-be-read pile stretches higher than my nightstand, I often find myself deluded by my personal collection of books. Reading slumps are nothing to worry about. They happen all the time. However, they waste what little time we are able to dedicate to reading. That is unacceptable, so I compiled a short list of strategies to jumpstart your literary momentum:
1. Power through. I would not recommend picking up a random book and forcing yourself to finish it. This can be painful when reading is supposed to be relaxing, but sometimes getting upfront and personal with words is the best thing to get back in the game.
2. Wait it out. Embrace a different medium and wait until the lack of reading becomes unbearable. There is only so much NCIS one can watch before their appreciation for well-plotted novels is renewed. The main issue with this strategy is that you never know how long the wait will be, but I always find myself returning to my bookshelf in time.
3. Reread an old favorite. Find the book that taught you to love reading. Find the one you can recite, the one with the battered cover and dog-eared pages. Rereading a beloved story can remind you how wonderful books can be and help rejuvenate your passion.
4. Go to the store. I am usually not one to recommend retail therapy. Often times it simply elongates my to-be-read list, but sometimes getting excited about reading is a matter of finding something new. Try an obscure genre or author. Pick something you would otherwise never read but seems interesting anyway and of course, check out Cozy Cat’s latest selection.
5. Reorganize your bookshelf. This is my favorite trick. Much like tip 3, going through your past reads brings you face to face with books you have loved and hated. By reviewing your history, you may find there is a theme you haven’t noticed before. Maybe you don’t particularly like books in the third person, or you love mysteries set in small towns. With a better idea of where you’ve been, you are well-equipped to figure out where you want to go.
Not all of these strategies will work, and sometimes you may need to try multiple before getting back your flow. Find the plan that works best for you. Remember, regardless of the slump, reading should not be painful or boring or waste your time. Books are meant to entertain and teach you about the world beyond your own experience. Hopefully, the tips will help you get back the joy of a good book. Happy reading!