It’s completely understandable that, in the digital age, reading books can feel less exciting compared to the endless supply of captivating content available on the internet. Social media, YouTube videos, and instant access to information are all designed to engage our attention quickly and often, making books seem slow or demanding in comparison. But here’s the thing: while the internet offers instant gratification, reading books provides depth, understanding, and intellectual growth in a way that digital content cannot match.So how can you make yourself like reading books in a world where the internet is constantly beckoning? Here are some strategies that might help:<ol><li data-block-key="99tf6">Start with Topics That Excite You</li></ol>The beauty of books is that they cover literally everything—whatever you’re passionate about, there’s a book on it. Start by reading something that interests you. If you’re into fantasy, pick up a novel like Harry Potter or The Hobbit. If you’re more into self-development, try a memoir like ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ or ‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear. Find books that align with your interests, and reading will feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Remember, the goal is to spark excitement, not to force yourself into something you think you “should” read.2. Set Small, Manageable GoalsOne reason the internet is so appealing is that it allows for instant results—whether it’s a quick meme or a short video. Books require patience, which can sometimes feel like a barrier. Start small! Commit to reading for just 10 minutes a day or aim for one chapter. Slowly, you’ll begin to see reading as something enjoyable and even rewarding, and you might find yourself reading for longer without realizing it.3. Create a Reading RitualYou might struggle to read if you’re trying to do it in an environment full of distractions. Set up a cozy, quiet space where you can immerse yourself in your book. Consider pairing reading with a relaxing activity like a hot cup of tea or coffee. Having a designated time, such as reading before bed or during your lunch break, helps make reading a habit and something you look forward to, instead of something you feel pressured to do.4. Start with Audiobooks or E-booksIf the idea of sitting down with a physical book feels overwhelming, try audiobooks or e-books. Audiobooks, in particular, allow you to enjoy stories or learning while doing other things (e.g., commuting, exercising, or cooking). This way, you can still benefit from the depth of a book without needing to give your undivided attention to the page. Platforms like Audible, Google Books, and Kindle provide an easy way to explore new titles in a format that works for your lifestyle.5. Use the Internet to Your AdvantageThe internet doesn’t have to be a competitor to books—it can enhance your reading experience. Before you start a book, you can watch book summaries or reviews online to get a sense of what it&#x27;s about and whether it aligns with your interests. Many bookworms use sites like Goodreads to find recommendations and join discussions. If you feel stuck, you can use the internet to search for forums, online book clubs, or YouTube channels that discuss books, which can help spark motivation to dive into the material yourself.6. Read to Learn, Not Just for EntertainmentIt’s easy to think of books as primarily for entertainment, but books can be incredibly powerful learning tools. Reading can be a way to expand your knowledge, improve your life, or even gain insights into the human experience. When you approach reading as a tool for self-improvement or an opportunity to learn something new, it can shift your perspective. You’re not just reading for the sake of reading—you&#x27;re reading to become a better version of yourself.7. Make It SocialIf you’re someone who thrives on connection, consider joining a book club or discussing books with friends. Social media also offers great platforms for book lovers. Follow bookstagram accounts, Reddit threads, or TikTok creators (often called “BookTok”) to join the wider community of readers. Discussing books with others can make the experience more enjoyable and give you a reason to keep going.8. Don’t Force It—Give Yourself Permission to QuitNot every book will capture your interest, and that’s okay! Sometimes, you might not connect with a particular book, and that’s perfectly normal. If you’re forcing yourself to finish something that doesn’t excite you, it will make reading feel more like a burden. Give yourself permission to put down a book and pick up another. Finding the right book can be a journey, but once you find something you’re passionate about, it will reignite your interest.9. Reflect on the Benefits of ReadingBooks offer a level of depth and understanding that you simply can’t get from scrolling through social media or watching videos. As Carol Dweck suggests in Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, a growth mindset is about developing a love for learning. Reading helps strengthen this mindset because it challenges you to think critically, engage deeply, and expand your knowledge—far beyond what a short internet post can offer.Robert Greene, in his book Mastery, highlights how consistent practice and dedication—qualities that are cultivated through reading—lead to greater personal development and success. Reading, like any skill, improves with time and practice, making it an essential part of becoming the best version of yourself.10. Enjoy the Process of DisconnectingFinally, one of the best reasons to embrace reading in the digital age is that it gives you a much-needed break from the endless notifications, distractions, and noise of the internet. As you immerse yourself in a book, you’re giving yourself permission to disconnect and focus solely on one thing. This focus and mental stillness can be incredibly rejuvenating in a world that’s constantly demanding your attention.Reclaiming the real rewards of readingwhile the internet may offer constant entertainment is important. It‘s a way of cultivating our inner landscape. Reading books provides something deeper—intellectual growth, creativity, and the ability to engage with ideas in a meaningful way. It can transform your life by teaching you new things, allowing you to explore new worlds, and providing a way to think more deeply and critically.By taking small steps, finding books that excite you, and using digital tools to enhance your reading experience, you can rekindle the love for books. So, the next time you feel the pull of the internet, consider swapping your screen for a book and see how much it transforms your mind—and your life.Happy reading!Works Cited:<ul><li data-block-key="1n1c2">Mindset Dweck, C., 2006. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. New York: Random House.</li><li data-block-key="3pv0r">Tuesdays with Morrie Albom, M., 1997. Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, A Young Man, and Life&#x27;s Greatest Lesson. New York: Doubleday.</li><li data-block-key="545ag">The Laws of Human Nature Greene, R., 2018. The Laws of Human Nature. New York: Penguin Press.</li><li data-block-key="7a5vf">Atomic Habits Clear, J., 2018. Atomic Habits: An Easy &amp; Proven Way to Build Good Habits &amp; Break Bad Ones. New York: Avery.</li><li data-block-key="e9k73">The Hobbit Tolkien, J.R.R., 1937. The Hobbit. London: George Allen &amp; Unwin.</li></ul>

Re-discovering Reading : A New Search for a Difficult Pleasure

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