Let's face it – getting lost in a book isn’t as easy as it used to be. We’re all guilty of saying, “I’ll read a bit before bed,” only to find ourselves an hour deep into TikTok or checking the group chat one last time. But research shows that putting our phones down and picking up a book can do wonders for our mental wellbeing. So, lets talk about why keeping reading around might just be the best thing for our busy lives – and how to actually get into it again.
Why Are We Reading Less?
Our reading habits have shifted dramatically in recent years, with many of us struggling to make time for books. According to recent research, half of UK adults don’t regularly read and almost 25% of young people (16-24) say they’ve never been readers, with record lows of children saying they enjoy to read.
So why do are we reading less? A nationally representative survey of over 2,000 UK adults highlighted the main obstacles:
- 33% of respondents said lack of time was the primary reason
- 20% of people said distraction from social media was a key obstacle
- 28% of reported difficulty focusing on reading for more than a few minutes
It’s easy to resonate with this: news feeds, notifications, and videos always within reach, can make carving out time to read feel like a chore. The way we consume media has changed our attention spans. So, when we sit down to read, the habit of switching between apps and scrolling kicks in, pulling us out of the story.
Reading on screens vs paper? Which is better? Read more
The Benefits of Reading
These shifts in habits aren’t just changing what we read – they’re impacting how we feel. Studies show that people who read for pleasure report higher self-esteem and a better ability to handle challenging situations. In contrast, non-readers are 28% more likely to report feelings of depression, underscoring the unique mental health benefits of regular reading.
Fiction: While it’s no secret that reading is good for you, fiction offers unique benefits. Reading stories allows us to build empathy and understand other people’s perspectives. According to studies, reading fiction can improve our ability to detect and understand others' emotions, making us more compassionate in real life. It’s a rare and refreshing escape from daily stress, helping us step into another world and experience life through someone else’s shoes.
Non-fiction: On the other hand, non-fiction gives us tools to navigate the real world. Whether it’s biographies, self-help books, or history, non-fiction offers insights and skills that we can apply directly to our lives. From improving mental resilience to learning about mindfulness, non-fiction reading boosts our self-awareness and knowledge, enhancing personal growth.
How to Get Back into Reading: Actionable Tips
If you're ready to make reading a regular part of your life again, here are some easy ways to get started, even if you’re feeling out of practice.
1. Start with Audiobooks
If a physical book feels like a big commitment, try starting with audiobooks. Listening to a story during your commute, while cooking, or before bed can help ease you back into the habit. Audiobooks also offer flexibility, so even on busy days, you can squeeze in a bit of storytelling.
2. Put Your Phone Out of Reach
One of the biggest barriers to reading is, without a doubt, our phones. Try leaving your phone in another room or switching it to "Do Not Disturb" mode while you read. Keeping it out of reach limits the urge to check messages, giving you the mental space to sink into your book.
3. Find Great Book Recommendations
Not sure where to start? There are plenty of resources for finding the perfect read. Head into a physical bookshop as a weekend activity to spark some nostalgia and pick a book from the recommended read or bestseller sections. Apps like Goodreads and StoryGraph are filled with recommendations tailored to your interests. You can also try local book clubs, Instagram book communities, or popular reading lists like the Booker Prize longlist.
4. Start Small and Build Up
Reading doesn't need to be a marathon. Start with shorter stories or just plan in a few pages each day. Setting realistic goals, like reading a chapter before bed, can make the habit feel less daunting and more enjoyable.
5. Establish a Routine
Making reading part of your daily or weekly routine helps it become a natural part of your life. Read during your commute or find a cosy spot, make a cup of tea, and dedicate time – even if it’s just ten minutes – to unwind with a book. Over time, this habit can feel like a relaxing ritual rather than something on your to-do list.
Reading isn’t just a hobby; it’s a form of self-care. As we scroll less and read more, we’re doing something incredibly beneficial for our minds, giving ourselves the gift of focus, empathy, and knowledge. So, next time you reach for your phone, consider picking up a book instead – who knows, you might just find it’s the escape you didn’t know you needed.
