Although reading is a daily activity for many people, there are also some people who do not like it. If you don't like reading, don't be discouraged. In fact, the number of people who don't like to read books has tripled since 1978, and American statistics suggest that roughly a quarter of American adults have not read a single book in the past year. Maybe you're forced to read a boring book for schoolwork or work, or maybe you just haven't found a genre you like. Exploring several genres might help you find the type of book you like. You can also learn strategic techniques that can help you finish the book, even if you don't like it.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Reading for Entertainment
Step 1. Choose reading material that you will enjoy
Many people like to talk about “classic” reading, but it may not be the type of reading that you like and it can actually make you not enjoy reading. Choose the type of reading that you enjoy, which can encourage you to read it.
- Study a variety of genres, such as celebrity biographies, romance, nonfiction, graphic novels, or works of fiction.
- Ask your friends and family for suggestions on what readings to read. Maybe you'll like it too.
- Chances are, you'll like a wide variety of reading genres. For example, one day you might enjoy reading romance novels and the next day you might enjoy reading graphic novels. Don't limit yourself to just one genre, let yourself explore the vast world of reading!
Step 2. Go to the actual store
Physical bookstores have several advantages over online stores. For example, you can walk through each aisle and pick up any book of interest. You're more likely to find something interesting when it's all there, rather than having to figure out what to look for first. Most bookstores also like to let visitors relax and read in their coffee shop or sitting area, so you can “review” a book before you buy it.
In addition, bookstore employees usually love books and will be happy to make recommendations. For example, if you normally don't like reading but really like The Hunger Games, a bookstore employee can recommend other books you might also like
Step 3. Remember that you will not be tested
Some people hate reading because at school they had to read to pass an exam, and never had an emotional connection to what they read. If you're just looking for reading you might like, remember that this isn't a test, and you won't "fail" if you don't like a particular book.
- It's also not a competition. Liking one type of book doesn't make you "better" than someone else. People who boast about their love of reading James Joyce's Ulysses are not automatically superior to others. In fact, some people lie when they say they read the “classic” books, 65% of people claim to have read the “important” books when in fact they have not.
- Read books that you find interesting and enjoyable, and don't let anyone discourage you from making your own choices. Popular writers like John Grisham and James Patterson may not be Charles Dickens, but their work is loved by many.
Step 4. Consider media other than books
Just as you shouldn't be stuck in just one genre of reading, try a variety of reading media available. There are many media to choose from for reading, such as magazines, books, tablets, to e-readers.
- If you don't like books, try a smaller publication like a magazine or newspaper. Motivation can be obtained by starting from easy reading.
- If you travel a lot, try using an e-reader or tablet. This device can help you pass the time without having to carry heavy books or magazines during the trip.
Step 5. Join a book club
Reading is not a boring activity and must be done alone. Joining a book club is a fun and social way to enjoy a variety of readings with friends or family.
- For many people, seeing how a story unfolds and talking about it can be a powerful motivator to read a book and enjoy it.
- Combine reading with fun activities like eating or drinking wine.
- Realize that if you join a book club, you won't always like the selection of books. You are free not to read it or just accept it openly until the book you like is chosen.
Step 6. Listen to the audiobook
If you don't like reading, listen to audiobooks. Audiobooks are usually read by voice actors so they sound dramatic and interesting. This helps you enjoy the book without having to physically read it. Audiobooks are also a great option to listen to while you're on the road.
- You may need to try several until you find an audiobook genre you like. You can always stop the audiobook if you don't like it and then try something else.
- There are public libraries that provide a selection of audiobooks that are free to try. You can also join a subscription service, such as Audible, which allows you to get free audiobooks every month for a small fee.
- Studies show that listening to books provides the same intellectual benefits as reading physical books. In fact, there are some people who learn better by hearing than through visual stimulation.
Step 7. Don't rush
If you read for entertainment, there is no pressure to read quickly. Don't rush through reading to help ensure that you fully enjoy whatever book you choose.
Divide the reading into pages, chapters, or sections. If you have to make it even easier, break it up into smaller pieces. For example, say, "I'm going to read 5 pages." See if you can do it and keep going if you want. Otherwise, leave your reading until next time
Step 8. Don't force yourself to read
Reading can be unpleasant if you push yourself through personal or social expectations. Don't put pressure on yourself, that way, you might enjoy reading and like the genre you've chosen.
- Place different types of reading at random in your home or office. This can encourage you to grab something to read when you're bored or instead of watching TV or doing other activities.
- You can also take literature with you while on vacation, going to the pool or playground, or on regular public transportation in the morning. Reading can be entertaining when you're bored or need a diversion.
Step 9. Read while relaxing
Don't read when you're stressed or in a hurry. Reading while relaxing can help the brain associate reading with pleasure, not as a chore.
- Studies show that a positive and relaxing context can motivate people to read.
- For example, you can put your reading at your bedside. If you want, you can take it before bed. Make sure you have a variety of reading materials available-such as magazines and books-so you can read material that suits your mood at the time.
Method 2 of 2: Reading for Assignments
Step 1. Use a study aid to accompany your reading
If you're having trouble reading an assigned book, consider using a study aid to help you complete it. This may help you understand complex topics and learn to enjoy the book.
- Most major literary works have study aids. The works have annotated comments explaining difficult parts of the book.
- Talk to your instructor or supervisor if you have any difficulties. He or she may be able to suggest effective reading methods.
Step 2. Make a plan for the task
If you don't like reading and have to do it for schoolwork or work, accept it and make a plan to do it. This will help you figure out strategic ways to accomplish the task.
- Allow specific time for each passage you read so you don't get stuck in one section. For example, you spend more time reading the introduction and conclusion than the body of the text.
- Make sure you schedule breaks to refresh your brain and recharge.
Step 3. Begin reading as early as possible
It's never too soon to start the assigned reading. This can minimize stress and help you remember the information.
You can read for 20-30 minutes a day to help read the text more effectively
Step 4. Divide the reading into parts you can tolerate
Breaking up your reading into smaller, more tolerable sections can help you complete reading assignments. This method ensures that you complete each section, even if it's not fun.
- Before you begin, skim through the entire text to get the basic idea. This helps you to follow along and not get confused.
- Set the pace, allowing yourself not to exceed the allotted time for each section. This can be a motivation to finish the whole text.
Step 5. Learn how to “swallow” what you read
People who have to read a lot of text, such as academics, use the strategy of “swallowing”-or devouring the most important information-read quickly. Swallowing readings can help you avoid getting bored when you have to read the required text.
- The most important parts of the text are the introduction and conclusion. Make sure you read these two sections thoroughly and then skim through the rest to find important details.
- The first and last sentences of a paragraph usually provide an overview of the topic in the paragraph.
- Quotations, text boxes, and summaries in textbooks usually contain the most important information. Always read this section.
Step 6. Read aloud
Reading aloud is especially helpful for texts such as plays and poetry. Plays are written to be performed, and Shakespeare's plays are much easier to understand when the words are heard, not just read on paper. Similarly, reading poetry aloud, paying attention to pauses and punctuation marks, can help you find meaning that you might not otherwise be able to read silently.
Step 7. Take notes
If you read the required text, you may have to remember the information. By taking notes as you read, you create useful help for later when you need to remember what you've read.
- You have to be able to strike a balance between noting too little or too much information. No need to write down everything you read, just relevant information. For example, if you are reading a financial text, focus on significant figures, not facts. On the other hand, if you are reading historical texts, you should know the importance of events, not details.
- Make notes by hand. Studies show that people learn more by writing than by typing on a computer or recording with a tape recorder.
Step 8. Divide reading assignments and exchange notes
If reading assignments are given in groups or classes, divide the reading among several people. Make sure everyone makes notes which are then exchanged for others. This can help you avoid having to read too much.
Reading groups with colleagues or classmates can be very helpful in completing reading assignments. Everyone has their own strengths in learning abilities, and reading that you may not understand may be understood by others
Tips
- Go to a library or bookstore and browse through the books there. See what catches your eye.
- If you find books or other reading material uninteresting, skip to another section or take a short break.
