You know that can’t-put-the-book-down, just-one-more-chapter feeling? It’s great, right? Well, if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably experienced times when you can’t seem to get that feeling anymore. Maybe you can’t even get past the first few pages of a book lately.
That, my friend, is what we call a reading slump. Even though it can be super frustrating for an avid reader, it’s completely normal. But maybe your slump has lasted longer than you’d like, and you’re wondering how to fall in love with reading again.
Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here, I’ll offer some tips I use when I’m ready to pull myself out of a reading slump and start devouring books again.
The Cliff Notes
Reading slumps happen for different reasons, like bills, caring for your family, work, and busy schedules.
To fall in love with reading again, re-read an old favorite, start with something light and easy, try a new genre, habit stack, let yourself DNF, or just give it time.
With the tips here and a little patience, you’ll be back to loving reading again in no time!
Slumps Happen
Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash
Whether we like it or not, reading slumps happen. Lots of things can pull us away from reading and keep our minds too distracted to relax into a story.
Everyday stressors (bills, caring for your family, work, etc.) are a big culprit. So are our busy schedules. I don’t know about you, but sometimes by the end of the day, my brain’s so fried that all I can do is plop down on the couch and stare into space.
The good news is that, if you want to crave getting lost in a good book again, I’ve got some tips that might help.
How to Fall in Love with Reading Again
Photo by Elin Melaas on Unsplash
Re-Read an Old Favorite
If you’re feeling like you don’t have the mental capacity to concentrate on a new story, consider re-reading something you’ve read before. This is even more effective if it’s a book you already know you love.
There’s something about re-reading an old favorite that can really help you fall in love with reading again. Maybe it’s because you don’t need as much brainpower to get through the story; you already know what’s going to happen!
I have a few go-to books I’ll pull out whenever I’m trying to get out of a reading slump. The Twilight Series is at the top of that list. (Yes, I’m still a Twi-hard to this day!)
When you just can’t get into a new book, try grabbing an oldie but goodie.
Start with Something Light and Easy
Forcing yourself to read something like Anna Karenina when you’re trying to come out of a slump is not ideal, to say the least. And maybe an intense psychological thriller isn’t the best option, either.
Instead, opt for an easy-to-read, lighthearted book. One with conversational writing and a guaranteed happy ending. (Might I shamelessly recommend Saving Apple Blossom Ranch?)
It’s also a good idea to take the length of your next read into consideration. Choose a novella or short story instead of an epic novel.
Remember you’re not trying to win any awards here. This process is just for you, for rekindling your long-lost love.
Try a New Genre
Maybe you’re simply getting bored with reading similar books all the time. You might want to consider getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new.
If you usually gravitate toward romantic suspense, for example, you could go for a fantasy novel. Or if your normal go-to is mystery, maybe you pick up a sweet romance.
Changing things up might be just what you need to fall in love with reading again!
Habit Stack
You’ve probably heard of habit stacking as a productivity hack. Experts claim that when you’re trying to form a new habit, it can be helpful to pair it with something you already do regularly.
For example, if you’re trying to start practicing gratitude more, and you normally make a pot of coffee every morning, leave a journal and pen next to the coffee maker and jot down 5 things you’re grateful for each day while your coffee’s brewing.
The same concept can be used with reading, and it doesn’t even have to be something you do every day. Let’s say you take a bubble bath once a week to unwind. You could easily add reading to that routine by taking a book into the tub with you.
Well, maybe not in the tub, but you get the idea.
Let Yourself DNF (Did Not Finish)
For most of my life, I’ve been of the belief that I have to finish any book I start.
Maybe it’s because I’m a rule-follower and DNFing a book felt like breaking the rules. Or maybe it’s because I’ve wanted to be an author for a long time, and I feel guilty not respecting other authors enough to finish what they’ve poured their blood, sweat, and tears into.
Whatever the reason, I’ve come to realize in recent years that forcing my way through a book I wasn’t enjoying just isn’t necessary. All it does is leave me resentful of wasting precious reading time on something I didn’t even like.
That said, I usually give every book I pick up at least the first three or four chapters before I DNF it. Sometimes that pays off! I’ve read plenty of books that started slow but ended up being some of my favorites.
You’ll want to set your own boundaries around when to give up on a story and when to stick with it. But just know that it’s OK to DNF if you need to.
Give It Time
Every once in a while, a reading slump will come along that just won’t break even with the tips above. In that case, it just has to run its course. I’ve found that, eventually, I always come back to books.
After all, stories are one of my greatest loves of all times. That kind of thing doesn’t just go away. ;)
Getting Your Reading Groove Back
Photo by Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash
When you’re normally an avid reader, slumps are the worst. The good news is, with a little patience and the tips above, you can be back on the road to loving reading again.
If you need somewhere to start, check out my books on Amazon. If you enjoy relatable (not Pilgrims! IYKYK) Christian romance and mystery set in small, Southern towns with lots of charm, you’ll love my books (hopefully)!