How to finally build a reading habit (and stick to it)

"I want to read more" is on almost everyone's list. But how do you make sure it actually happens? Habits are hard to form, but with the right approach, it's easier than you think.

Why habits are so hard

Our brain is programmed to conserve energy. New habits initially require more energy than existing routines. That's why we keep falling back on our phone usage, even when we know we'd rather be reading.

The key is to make reading as easy as possible and phone usage as difficult as possible.

The 5-minute rule

Start small. Don't promise yourself to read for an hour a day—start with five minutes. That might seem little, but it breaks the mental barrier. Most people who start with five minutes end up reading much longer.

Link reading to something you already do

Behavioral psychologists call this "habit stacking." Link your new reading habit to an existing routine:

• After brushing your teeth → read for 10 minutes
• With your morning coffee → read for 15 minutes
• Before bed → read for 20 minutes

Remove the barrier

Place your e-reader in a prominent spot, next to your bed, on the coffee table, in your bag. Put your phone in a drawer or in another room. Make reading the path of least resistance.

Choose the right book

One of the biggest saboteurs of reading habits is the wrong book. If your book is boring or doesn't fit your mood, you'll stop sooner. Choose books that genuinely make you want to keep reading, even if they're not the most "impressive" choice.

Track your progress

People who track their reading progress read on average 2.5 times more than those who don't. Use an app like Goodreads, keep a list in your notebook, or simply put a cross on a calendar.

The evening routine is the most valuable

Reading before bed has a dual benefit: it relaxes your brain and deepens your sleep. Replace your phone before bed with your e-reader—after two weeks, you'll notice a significant difference in your sleep quality.