We all want to read more. Yet, in practice, it often gets neglected. Work, study, family, sports, social commitments, and an endless stream of notifications on your phone quickly lead to books remaining unopened on your nightstand.
Sound familiar? You're certainly not alone.
The good news is that you don't need hours a day to read more books. With a few smart habits, you can easily read dozens of books a year, even if you have a busy life.
At Boeken-Plein.nl, we share 10 practical tips that you can use today to create more reading moments in your day.
1. Read 15 minutes every day
You don't have to read for hours at a time right away. Start small.
Fifteen minutes a day may seem like little, but it yields surprisingly much. If you read an average of 20 pages a day, you'll read over 7,000 pages a year. That's about 20 to 30 books, depending on their thickness.
By starting small, reading becomes a habit instead of an obligation.
2. Put your phone away more often
Many people unconsciously pick up their phone dozens of times a day. Just checking social media quickly turns into half an hour of scrolling.
Try replacing that moment with a book.
Ten minutes less screen time often means ten minutes more reading time.
3. Always carry a book with you
Waiting happens more often than you think.
On the train.
At the doctor's office.
During a lunch break.
On vacation.
Or while waiting for someone.
If you always have a book with you, you turn lost minutes into valuable reading moments.
4. Read before going to sleep
Many readers find this the most enjoyable time of the day.
A book helps you to calmly wind down, while your phone or television keeps you active.
Make it a habit to read for twenty minutes every evening before going to sleep.
5. Choose books you truly enjoy
You don't have to finish a book just because everyone says it's a classic.
Reading should primarily be enjoyable.
Do you like thrillers? Read thrillers.
Are you fond of fantasy? Choose fantasy.
Prefer historical novels or feel-good? That's fine too.
The more enjoyable the book, the greater the chance you'll keep reading.
6. Dare to put a book down
Not every book is for everyone.
If a story still doesn't appeal to you after 50 to 100 pages, it's perfectly fine to choose another book.
You read for pleasure, not out of obligation.
7. Set a reading goal
A small goal is often motivating.
For example:
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12 books a year
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24 books a year
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30 minutes of reading per day
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Discover one new genre every month
A goal provides direction without feeling like a competition.
8. Make reading a moment for yourself
Don't see reading as something you "still have to do," but as a moment of relaxation.
Make a cup of tea or coffee, find a comfortable chair, and consciously distance yourself from all the hustle and bustle.
Precisely that quiet moment ensures that many people rediscover the joy of reading.
9. Alternate between different books
Don't feel like a heavy novel right now?
Then read an exciting thriller.
Or a light-hearted feel-good story.
Or an inspiring biography.
By alternating, reading remains enjoyable and you prevent a reading slump.
10. Buy books you're curious about
Nothing is more motivating than a book you can't wait to start.
Therefore, create a personal reading list with books that truly appeal to you.
At Boeken-Plein.nl, you'll find an extensive selection of new and second-hand books. This way, you can affordably discover new authors, read popular bestsellers, or finally add that classic to your collection.
Reading more starts with the right book
Many people think they have too little time to read. In reality, it often comes down to small choices throughout the day.
Fifteen minutes of reading instead of scrolling on your phone.
Bringing a book instead of waiting idly.
Reading ten pages before bed.
All those small moments combined make a big difference.
The most important thing is to choose a book that excites you. Because when a story grabs you, you'll naturally make time to keep reading.
Discover your next favorite book
Whether you like captivating thrillers, romantic novels, impressive biographies, or magical fantasy stories: at Boeken-Plein.nl, you'll always find a book that suits you.
Feel free to browse our collections and get inspired. Perhaps your next favorite book is already waiting for you.
Happy reading!
Team Boeken-Plein.nl
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make more time to read?
Schedule a fixed reading moment every day, for example, during your lunch break or before going to sleep. Even 15 to 20 minutes a day can lead to dozens of books annually.
How many books does an average reader read per year?
That varies per person. Many people read between 5 and 15 books a year. By reading for fifteen minutes daily, you can easily increase this number.
What should I do if I'm in a reading slump?
Choose a different genre, read a shorter book, or try a new author. Sometimes one good book is enough to completely rekindle your reading pleasure.
Are second-hand books a good choice?
Certainly. Second-hand books are often more affordable, more sustainable, and also offer the opportunity to discover special or hard-to-find editions.
