If you are looking for hacks to read more, you are in the right place! Maybe you’re new to BookTok or Bookstagram, or perhaps a friend finally convinced you to pick up A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) or Fourth Wing. Now, you’re hooked—but struggling to find time to read.
With a never-ending to-do list, how are you supposed to finish one book, let alone an entire series?
I’ve been there!
When I became a new mom to twin boys, I found it nearly impossible to carve out time for reading. We lived in a small apartment, sharing a room, so keeping the light on at night wasn’t an option. As they got older, my bookshelves became their playground—meaning lost bookmarks, scattered pages, and zero peace for reading.
Then I discovered a game-changer: the Kindle app on my iPhone. It completely transformed my reading life! Now, reading is more than just a hobby—it’s my stress reliever, creative escape, and daily recharge.
If you’re struggling to make time for reading, here are 10 simple hacks to read more that have helped me read more books every year—even with a busy schedule!
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1. Embrace Short Reading Bursts to Read More
You don’t need to finish an entire book in one sitting. Instead of waiting for a long stretch of free time, start reading in short bursts throughout your day:
- ✔️ Stuck under a sleeping baby? Read a few pages.
- ✔️ Waiting in the grocery store line? Open your Kindle app.
- ✔️ Lying in bed? Swap social media scrolling for a chapter or two.
A few minutes a day adds up fast!
2. Track Your Reading Streak
One thing that keeps me motivated is my Kindle reading streak. I’ve read at least 1-2 pages every day for over a year, and now I refuse to break my streak!
Even on exhausting days, I make sure to read at least one page before bed—because every page counts!
3. Listen to Audiobooks
If you’re constantly on the go, audiobooks are a lifesaver. I love using Audible—with a membership, you get free monthly credits for books and can seamlessly switch between listening on Audible and reading on your Kindle!
Great times to listen to audiobooks:
🎧 While cooking or cleaning – Makes chores fly by!
🎧 At the gym – Nothing is more motivating than listening to a battle scene while sweating it out on an Assault Bike.
🎧 During stroller walks or errands – A perfect way to multitask!
🎧 While Driving – Makes those long days in traffic seem shorter!
4. Use the Kindle App or an E-Reader
Physical books are amazing, but they’re not always practical. I found that downloading the Kindle app on my phone completely changed my reading habits. Especially utilizing Kindle Unlimited – it’s liken Netflix for books!
Now, I can read anytime, anywhere—without carrying a heavy book or worrying about losing my place.
5. Set a Small Daily Reading Goal
Instead of saying, “I don’t have time to read,” start small:
✔️ Aim for just 10-15 minutes a day.
✔️ Even reading one chapter or a few pages is progress.
✔️ Set a realistic goal that works with your lifestyle.
Little by little, it adds up to full books!
6. Try Reading Sprints to Read More
A fun way to squeeze in more reading is by using reading sprints:
⏱ ️Set a 5-10 minute timer and read as much as possible.
⏱ ️Challenge yourself to beat your last sprint.
⏱ ️Repeat whenever you have free time!
It turns reading into a game and helps you stay focused.
7. Replace Doom Scrolling with Reading
Be honest—how much time do you spend mindlessly scrolling on Instagram, TikTok, or X?
Try swapping 5-10 minutes of scrolling for 5-10 minutes of reading.
You’ll be amazed at how many books you can finish just by making this one small change!
8. Keep Books Accessible
Make it easy to reach for a book!
✔️ Keep a book on your nightstand, coffee table, or desk.
✔️ Always have your Kindle or reading app ready on your phone.
✔️ If you love physical books, carry one in your bag or car.
When books are within reach, you’ll naturally read more!
9. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
Having a dedicated reading space makes reading more enjoyable.
💡 Ideas for a cozy nook:
- A comfy chair or reading corner
- A soft blanket and pillows
- Warm lighting or candles
- A small shelf with your TBR (to-be-read) books
Your nook doesn’t have to be fancy—it just needs to be inviting and relaxing!
10. Use a Reading Tracker or Journal to Read More Books
Tracking your reading progress keeps you motivated!
✔️ Use a reading tracker in a planner or bullet journal.
✔️ Try apps like Goodreads to log finished books.
✔️ Set a yearly reading goal to stay on track.
(I even created a printable/digital reading journal you can use—check it out!)
Final Thoughts: Just Start!
The best way to read more? Start today. Download the Kindle App, grab an audiobook, and carve out small moments for reading. You’ll be surprised at how much progress you make!
💬 What’s on your TBR (To-Be-Read) list? Drop your top picks in the comments!
If you’re looking for bookish accessories to enhance your reading experience, check out my Etsy shop for bookish merch and reading journal!
