How to Simplify Your Reading of Books
There are so many books right now in the fall that you want to read. You see ads everywhere or book recommendations on Instagram, Pinterest or other social media.
Just when it's getting cooler outside and it gets darker earlier, many people start their long nights of reading. This is a wonderful time in the fall to come to yourself and read very good books. Many people are faced with the challenge of how to find the right book for them from this incredible variety of books.
Relying solely on Amazon's recommendation algorithm is not the way to go, in my opinion. I read so much every day myself and opened my own bookshop a few years ago where we sold hand-picked literature from particularly independent authors and independent publishers. Throughout my professional career, I've always come into contact with interesting authors and publishers.
So how can you pick out the book you like from the incredibly large number of books and find the books you would like to read for the fall/winter?
As always, when we want to simplify a certain action or intention, a good structure helps us. At first glance, this sounds to many people like a strict order that they have to follow.
Many people have told me in coaching sessions that they would love to browse and search for hours in a bookshop. That also fills them with a great deal of happiness. That is certainly a wonderful thing when it comes to books. When you go to a bookshop, it's especially fun to just browse and then at some point pick up a book or several books and have a quick chat with the bookseller about the books.
And there are also people who tell me that they are already overwhelmed here, which causes them stress and leaves them at a loss because there is no good advice in many bookshops and there are so many book bloggers on the Internet that they don't even know where to start and where to find a really good book.
So I'd like to give you a few tips on how to find your book and how to simplify your reading so that you don't get overwhelmed and don't think you're missing out.
Set Clear Goals
Define why you want to read a particular book. Are you looking to learn something specific, find inspiration, or simply unwind? By understanding your purpose, you’ll be better equipped to choose books that genuinely interest you and align with your needs.
Goal-oriented reading prevents you from feeling obligated to finish books that don’t serve your current purpose. For instance, if your goal is to learn about minimalism, a few well-chosen books on the topic can be far more effective than a massive reading list.
Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
It’s easy to get caught up in reading challenges or book lists, but simplifying your reading means focusing on quality, not quantity. Curate your reading list carefully by choosing books that come highly recommended or that align with your interests.
Avoid the pressure of keeping up with others and focus on deeply engaging with one book at a time. Reading fewer but more impactful books allows you to absorb and reflect on the material more fully.
Use Summaries and Book Reviews
Not every book requires a cover-to-cover read. For topics you want to get a broad understanding of, consider reading summaries, book reviews, or chapter highlights. Tools like Blinkist and Audible provide condensed versions of popular books and key takeaways.
While summaries can’t replace the experience of reading an entire book, they offer insight into whether a particular book is worth your time or helps you quickly absorb its main points.
Create a Reading Routine
Establishing a routine can streamline your reading and ensure you consistently make progress. Start by setting aside a specific time each day—whether in the morning, during lunch, or before bed—to read a few pages or a chapter.
By dedicating just 15–30 minutes a day, you’ll gradually make significant progress without overwhelming yourself. Consistent reading at the same time can also reinforce the habit, making it a natural part of your daily schedule.
Use Active Reading Techniques
Simplify your reading by actively engaging with the content. This can include highlighting important sections, jotting down notes, or summarizing chapters in your own words.
Active reading helps retain key information and makes the reading experience more purposeful. Techniques like skimming and scanning for key points also allow you to quickly grasp the main ideas without getting bogged down in unnecessary details.
Embrace Digital Tools
E-readers and apps can make reading simpler and more convenient. With digital books, you can adjust font size, search for specific terms, and highlight passages without worrying about carrying around a heavy book.
Tools like Kindle also allow you to make quick notes and look up unfamiliar words instantly. Audiobooks are another option, letting you “read” while commuting or exercising, turning unproductive time into an opportunity for learning or relaxation.
Don’t Be Afraid to Stop Mid-Book
Simplifying your reading also means giving yourself permission to quit a book if it’s not engaging or beneficial. If a book isn’t meeting your expectations or aligning with your goals, set it aside guilt-free.
There’s no rule that says you have to finish every book you start. Allowing yourself to stop lets you invest your time in books that truly add value.
Reflect on What You’ve Read
And take a few moments after each book to reflect on what you’ve learned or enjoyed. Jot down key insights, memorable quotes, or personal takeaways in a journal or digital note app.
This practice not only enhances retention but also deepens your appreciation of the material, making each reading experience more meaningful.
Simplifying your reading is about making it purposeful, enjoyable, and manageable. By setting clear goals, choosing quality over quantity, and using effective reading strategies, you can enhance your experience while avoiding overwhelm.
Embrace the reading approach that works best for you and remember: it’s about the journey and knowledge gained, not the number of books completed.
Would you like to get more tips for new books and for better reading? I look forward to a no-obligation discussion, for which you can book an appointment here.