The Reading Reset - how to create more time for books in your day
Do you struggle to fit reading time into your day? We certainly do. Modern life seems determined to throw obstacles in our way. Aside from the age-old distractions of work and family responsibilities, research has shown that our attention spans are being shrunk by social media. We’re bombarded with information from multiple sources, encouraging us to skim information rather than engage in any kind of critical thinking.
Our brains struggle to deal with the daily sensory overload and we can find ourselves suffering from a constant feeling of low level anxiety. It’s ironic that reading, which has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and slow cognitive decline, can so easily fall victim to the traps of the digital age.
If, like us, you’re determined to prioritise reading there are certain things you can do change your habits and make more time in your life for books.
Stop scrolling
How many hours a day do you spend scrolling - one, two, six? We run our own businesses which relies heavily on a strong online presence but there’s a fine line between constructive activity and mindless scrolling.
While it’s great to post and catch up with your online community, scrolling devours your precious time. Setting yourself limits will free you up for more mindful activities including reading.
If you don’t believe us, have an honest look at how much time you spend doom scrolling or watching pointless reels? You’ll be surprised or perhaps even horrified.
Step away from the devices
Closely related to the previous point, this one can make a huge difference to your ability to concentrate.
You know what it’s like. You start by checking a word you’re not sure about on your phone and before you know it, you’ve been watching funny cat videos for 20 minutes. In order to concentrate properly on what we're reading, we have to keep our phones at arm’s length or even in a different room. We haven’t tried any of them yet but there are even apps out there that block you from social media during scheduled reading time. If you’re struggling to make the break then it might be worth giving one a whirl.
Pick your moment
Work out your optimal time for reading. Perhaps you love reading before you go so sleep or you might be one of those people who focuses better in the morning before the day crowds in.
Whatever works best for you, make sure you schedule some time for reading, properly schedule it. Put it in your diary if it helps. That way you're far more likely to actually sit down with your book.
Never Leave the House without a Book
On the bus or train, while you’re sitting in the doctor’s surgery or waiting to pick up the kids, there are always bonus opportunities for reading during the day. Keep a book close at hand so you can dip into it whenever you have a spare 10 minutes.
Read for pleasure
Life is too short to read bad books. If you’re not enjoying something, you’re far less likely to stick with it especially when there are so many digital temptations in your way. Choose a book that gives you pleasure. We promise you that it will be far more nourishing for your soul than watching a cat on a skateboard.
By the Book Retreats - these could be the ultimate reading reset!
If you're struggling to make time in your life for books then the reading retreats we run in Cornwall might be just what you need.
Our autumn events are sold out but we've just launched two new dates for spring 2027. Click on the links for more details or to be added to our waiting list:
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