Whether it’s to read more books, start with reading a book, or to read something different, the benefits of reading both for yourself and your child are endless.

But where does one even begin with creating a better habit?

As usual, we’ve got you covered with some nifty ideas to reach your reading goals this year. 

1. Head to the (digital) library 

First things first, you’ll need access to books. Luckily there are a myriad of books available on the Gauteng digital library. 

Simply sign up for a library card using your ID number, and access books via Overdrive using any smartphone, tablet or laptop. 

• Read what you enjoy

This one seems a little bit obvious, but many people feel the pressure to read something intellectual that will look good on their Goodreads list. 

Don’t do it. 

Reading is supposed to be enjoyable, so if you get 50 pages in and decide that “The 5 am club” is not for you, then that’s absolutely fine!

• Re-read an old favourite

When was the last time you read the Harry Potter series? Or another book that just spoke to you on another level? There’s something wonderful about reading a book you know – almost like visiting an old friend. Allow yourself to bask in the nostalgia and unapologetically enjoy an old favourite – it still counts as part of your reading list.

• Set aside time

If you find yourself never having the time to read, then it’s time to prioritise. Set aside 30 minutes per day – I like reading right before I go to bed – that you dedicate strictly to reading. 

• Join a book club

Meet up with (or Video call) other people who enjoy reading too. By creating a space where you can discuss what you’ve read and get recommendations, you’ll be more motivated to read and share. Besides – what better pandemic activity is there than to have a socially distanced book club?

• Get some good recommendations

Sometimes, not reading stems from just not knowing what to read in the first place. Luckily, there are so many ways to get great recommendations including: Libby, the app powered by Overdrive that seems to know just what they have in their library that you’d love to read next. 

Another great website to get good book recommendations is Goodreads – you log books that you’ve already read and it recommends books for you in genres that you’re interested in. 

Finally, I like to use What Should I Read Next  – a website that recommends similar books based on what kind of book or author you type into their search engine. 

Happy reading everyone!

Photo by James Tarbotton on Unsplash