How to Build a Reading Habit: My 3-Year Journey

Three years ago, like many others, I couldn't stop scrolling through my phone and struggled to read books. Today, I've built a daily reading habit. Here's what worked for me.

Phase 1: Lower the barrier

**Start with simple books**:

- Don't start by reading classic literature right away

- Select your area of interest

- Short books are easier to stick with

**My Booklist**:

- "Miracle of the Night" - Keigo Higashino

- "The Courage to Be Disliked" - Ichiro Kishimi

- Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind - Yuval Noah Harari

Phase 2: Fixed Time

**Find a reading time that fits your schedule**:

- I choose 30 minutes before bed

- Some prefer mornings or their commute

The key is to form a consistent habit.

** Environment Creation **:

- Set up a cozy reading nook

- Dim lights to set the mood

- Turn on Do Not Disturb mode on your phone

Phase 3: Step-by-Step Progress

**Gradually increase readership **:

- Week 1: 5 pages per day

- Week 2: 10 pages per day

- Week 3: 20 pages per day

- After one month: 30 minutes per day

**Don't put too much pressure on yourself**:

- No worries if you're delayed; just continue the next day.

- If you can't focus, try another book

Reading is for enjoyment, not a chore.

My Achievements

**Knowledge Level**:

- Expanded cognitive boundaries

- Learned to think about problems from multiple perspectives

- Significant improvement in writing skills

**Spiritual Level**:

- Feel more at peace

- Reduced anxiety and restlessness

- Found a spiritual anchor

Tips for Beginners

1. **Don't chase quantity**: Reading 100 books a year is less effective than deeply reading 10.

2. **Take Reading Notes**: Capture insights, deepen understanding

3. **Share and Discuss **: Join the book club to discuss with others

4. **Unity of Knowledge and Action**: Apply what you learn from books to real life

Reading is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time—you'll come to love it.