How Do You Have Time For Reading? (Hint: It's Easier Than You Think!)

I get asked this question all the time: "How do you have time to read ⌚?" With our busy lives, carving out time for ourselves, let alone for something like reading, seems almost impossible. But trust me, it's easier than you think!

Let me rewind a bit. I've been an avid reader for over 20 years. But then life happened. I became a Mom, and suddenly "me time" became a distant memory. Days were filled with diapers, dishes, and driving carpool. Reading? Who had time for that? But as my children got older, I started to crave that time back. I missed getting lost in a good story, the feeling of learning something new, the quiet moments of reflection that only reading can provide. So, I started looking at my day, trying to figure out where I could squeeze in some "me time," especially for reading.

And that's when it hit me: the time was there all along, I was just wasting it.

Back in 2010, I decided to quit social media. It wasn't even about finding more "me time" at first, I just wanted to set a good example for my kids. But the result was shocking. Suddenly, I had all this extra time! The time I used to waste scrolling through endless feeds now became time for flipping pages. It was a game-changer.

So, if you're looking to reclaim some time for yourself and rediscover the joy of reading, here's what I learned:

1. Swap that Scroll:📖📱

• Next time you're mindlessly reaching for your phone, grab a book instead. Seriously, keep one in your bag, by your bed, on the coffee table. Make it easily accessible. I always have a book in my purse and one by my bedside.

• Kick social media to the curb (unless you're looking for book info 😉📖). Set limits on your phone, use website blockers, or even try a social media detox. You'll be amazed at how much time you have when you're not constantly scrolling.

  
  

2. Be Prepared to Get Your Read On:🚗🚆 ✈️👜📱

• Books or Kindles, always. Waiting for an appointment? Stuck on the plane, train? Perfect time to sneak in a few pages. I love the convenience of my Kindle, especially when I'm traveling.

• Audiobooks are your friend. Listen while you're doing chores, walking the dog, or even just zoning out. I often listen to audiobooks while I'm cooking dinner or folding laundry.

  
  

3. Make Reading a Habit (a good one!) ☕📖

• Just 15 minutes a day. That's it! Morning coffee, evening wind-down...find what works for you. I love starting my day with a cup of tea and a good book. It sets a calm and positive tone for the day.

• Treat it like brushing your teeth. You wouldn't skip brushing your teeth, right? Make reading a non-negotiable part of your routine. Schedule it in your calendar if you have to!

  
  

Bonus Round:

Reading isn't just fun, it's good for you. Think less stress, better focus, and a whole lot of knowledge. Plus, it's way more satisfying than watching another cat video (no offense to cats).

Trust me, if I can find time to read, you can too. Ditch the scroll and get lost in a good book. You won't regret it!