Welcome back everyone! Today I want to talk about something that every avid reader knows about: reading slumps. Reading slumps are not fun and can last a very long time. I was in one towards the end of the year and now I’m kind of in one again. So, this is something I am very familiar with. I have a few tips and tricks to help you out for your next reading slump (because let’s face it, there will be a next one).
How a reading slump starts
Before we get to the tips and tricks, I think it’s important to acknowledge how they can happen in the first place. Personally, I can get into reading slumps after I finish a really good book. I like to call this a book hangover. Sometimes, I just have to have time to process the book and the events that happened in a book especially in one I loved and connected to a lot before I can start another one. Or sometimes life gets in the way and I no longer have time for reading, or I no longer make time for reading. Sometimes, I’m not in the mood to read at all and want to spend my free time doing something else. Or I just can’t seem to find a good book which is something I hate. There are so many great books out there, so the thought of finding one that I don’t like or can’t finish is heartbreaking. I hate not being able to get through a book. After so many duds, a slump can start.
Tips for getting over a reading slump
1. Don’t freak out. It happens. You just have to remember that it can’t last forever.
2. Try reading small books. Try picking up a book that is relatively short like a little over 100 pages. Sometimes poetry books can help because finishing those short books can make you feel accomplished.
3. Re-read an old favorite. I would pick up a book you know you love and have even re-read before. That way you know what’s going to happen and you already know how great it is.
4. Look up fast-paced books. Sometimes a reading slump continues because you keep picking up books that aren’t good or what you want. They don’t keep your attention long enough to get to the good part. You can find lists of fast-paced books on Pinterest, the Internet, TikTok, etc. I always recommend thrillers because they are usually fast-paced and can keep you hooked.
5. Make time. Like I said before, sometimes a slump happens because you simply don’t have time to read. Maybe your life is crazy busy at the moment, but I recommend reading a little bit before bed each night because 1) reading can make you sleepy 2) it gets you off your phone right before bed and 3) it’s an easy place to carve out some reading time.
Moving On
I know some of these are easier said than done, but I would say to at least try one of them. It will take some trial and error to find a method or a trick that works for you. If none of these ways work, I would just let time do its thing. The reading slump won’t last forever. If you have any other tips for getting out of a slump please let me know! I would love to try other ideas!
Until next time, have a great week!
Comments