Strategies to Get Yourself out of a Reading Slump

If you’re the type of person to read books regularly, you’ve probably experienced the dreaded reading slump. Reading slumps are periods where the reader can’t get into the books they’re reading or don’t feel like reading. These slumps can last from days to weeks, and readers like myself feel shame that they’re not consuming books as they did.

As someone experiencing a reading slump, I use a few strategies to get back into the swing of reading regularly.

1. Reread your favorite book

This strategy works great for me because I already know I love the book. Ideally, you’d want to read your favorite standalone that gives you good vibes because then that will increase the excitement to read and the desire to seek out more books like your favorite. For example, here is a list of books that I think of when I’m in a reading slump:

• An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson
• The Tenth Muse by Catherine Chung
• Coraline by Neil Gaiman

By triggering your emotional attachment to reading, your favorite books will remind you why you read. I find that this is the best way to get yourself to read again.

2. Listen to songs that remind you of your favorite characters

I have a few songs that remind me of certain book characters, and listening to the songs motivates me to read again. Listening to music is another strategy to trigger your emotions towards reading and use them to increase your motivation. After gaining inspiration, you’ll be able to pick up that book you’ve been putting off starting.

To name an example, I’ve been listening to ivy by Taylor Swift on repeat for the past few weeks. The song gives me fantasy vibes and reminds me of my favorite stories. Listening to music transports me into that world, and I feel similar to when I read fantasy books.

3. Schedule your reading time

If you’re someone who reads simultaneously every day, this tip might help you get back into that schedule. Setting aside a block of time to read is a great way to get yourself back into reading because you’ve delegated a particular time where no other obligations or responsibilities will get in the way.

You can give yourself 30 minutes or an hour to sit in a comfortable spot and crack open a book. This “reading time” will ensure that you pick up your book and enjoy yourself without feeling like it’s forced. People are creatures of habit, and building this habit will help you avoid another reading slump.

In conclusion

You read because you want to read and enjoy reading. Reading should never be forced because then you’ll lose the joy you receive from it. Reading is a hobby that is supposed to comfort you when the world gets too overwhelming. Reading is meant to lift you when you feel down and recharge your battery when you feel like you’re running on empty.

If picking up a book is too much at the moment, don’t make yourself do it. Life is complicated and sometimes requires you to live in the now. It is important to remember that books will always be there for you, no matter what’s going on. The emotions you feel while reading is precious, so never discount them.