Do you love books but struggle with how to build a reading habit? Between work, family, and endless to-do lists, reading often takes a backseat. But what if I told you that you can build a reading habit—even with a packed schedule? Here’s how to make reading a daily joy without feeling overwhelmed!

1. Start Small (Even 5 Minutes Counts!)
If you’re wondering how to build a reading habit, the key is to start small and stay consistent. You don’t need hours to be a reader. Start with just 5–10 minutes a day—during breakfast, in the car (audiobooks count!), or before bed. Small steps lead to big habits! Even reading just a few pages a day can add up over time and help you develop a consistent routine.
2. Always Have a Book Handy
Keep a book in your bag, on your phone (hello, Kindle app!), or on your bedside table. When you have a few spare minutes, you’ll be more likely to reach for a book instead of scrolling on your phone. Having easy access to a book ensures that reading becomes a natural part of your daily life.
3. Choose Books That Excite You
If a book feels like a chore, switch it up! Read what truly interests you—whether it’s romance, thrillers, fantasy, or self-help. Loving what you read makes the habit stick. Don’t force yourself to read something just because it’s popular; instead, focus on books that genuinely spark your curiosity and excitement. You needn’t always follow the latest trends, read the new releases, or pick up what everyone’s reading. After all, just like what Murakami has said,
“If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.“
4. Explore Different Genres and Diversify Your Reading
Sometimes, a reading slump happens because you’re stuck in a particular genre. Try exploring different types of books—fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, historical, or even poetry. Diversifying your reading broadens your perspective, introduces you to new ideas, and keeps things fresh and engaging.
5. Make Reading Part of Your Routine
Pair reading with an existing habit—like drinking your morning coffee or winding down at night. Associating books with daily rituals makes reading second nature. Setting a specific time for reading each day can help turn it into a consistent habit. I always read on my Kindle for a good half an hour (or more) at night, after I put my little one to sleep.
6. Try Audiobooks
Too busy to sit and read? Listen to audiobooks while driving, cooking, or working out. I am not too fond of audiobooks but hey, that’s just me. I know of book lovers who feel it’s a great way to fit audiobooks into one’s routine effortlessly. Audiobooks can also bring stories to life with engaging narrations, making them an excellent alternative for multitaskers.
7. Join a Reading Challenge
Gamify your reading! Join challenges like #ReadingWithMuffy or set a personal goal (e.g., 12 books a year) on Goodreads. Tracking progress keeps you motivated. Reading challenges push you to explore different genres and themes while giving you a sense of accomplishment.
8. Join a Book Club or Buddy Read
Reading is more fun when shared! Join a local book club or participate in online buddy reads to discuss books, exchange recommendations, and stay accountable. We have an Instagram group for #ReadingWithMuffy participants and it is fun to catch up on what everyone’s reading for the challenge or their thoughts on their current reads. Book discussions can help you see different perspectives and deepen your understanding of a story.
9. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
Make reading irresistible by setting up a comfy spot with warm lighting, soft blankets, and a hot drink. Sometimes, getting out of bed and having a cozy environment makes all the difference! Having a dedicated reading space signals your brain that it’s time to relax and immerse yourself in a book.
10. Swap Screen Time for Page Time
Before bed, swap your phone for a book. Reducing screen time helps you sleep better—and you get to enjoy a great story before drifting off. Limiting social media and TV time can free up more moments for reading. (Nope! Reading on a Kindle doesn’t count as screen time, at least according to me!).
11. Document Your Reading Journey
Writing about what you read helps reinforce your thoughts and makes the experience more rewarding. Keep a reading journal, write reviews on Goodreads, start a book blog, or share your thoughts on Instagram. Engaging with the bookish community can also help you discover new books and authors.
12. Find a Reading Buddy
Share books with a friend, join a book club, or buddy-read with someone online. Comment and cheer on your bookstagram friend’s post or your favourite book blogger’s blog post. Discussing books makes reading more fun and keeps you accountable. A reading buddy can also introduce you to books you might not have picked up otherwise.
13. Be Kind to Yourself
Reading should be enjoyable, not a task. If you miss a day, don’t stress—just pick up where you left off. Every page you read is a win! The goal is to cultivate a lifelong love for books, not to rush through them.
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Now that you know how to build a reading habit, it’s time to start small and make reading a natural part of your life, even on the busiest days.
What’s your favorite tip for squeezing in more reading? Let’s chat in the comments!
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
That’s all for now,

Very practical tips and it does really works. I myself started doing this since 2022. Books heals me on my postpartum period and so I was able to crack my reading goal in 2024.
Your tips on building a reading habit are super helpful for non readers and for those who have just started reading! I always have a book with my first coffee of the day, it is a ritual since decades.
Very good tips Shalini. This year, I have decided to read books that please me, instead of focussing on the number of books I am reading. And documenting your reading list is certainly a great way to stay in touch. I am glad, I put my reads on the blog.
Great points Shalini.
This is exactly I was able to read more than 20 books in a year and I am loving it.
I was such a bookworm and I used to talk about building the reading habit in kids. But now I feel ashamed that I am losing touch with my best friends ( books)
I am one avid reader and yet I get into a reading slump some time. There are many points you mentioned which help me. Especially picking up something which excites me and starting a small! Reading challenges helps you keep motivated for sure!
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Even for a fairly okay reader like me, your tips work really well. The reading corner is a wonderful one, and I think I have to create one for myself in my home. Love your pertinent blog. Nothing like reading your favourite book to beat the blues.
Even for a fairly okay reader like me, your tips work really well. The reading corner is a wonderful one, and I think I have to create one for myself in my home. Love your pertinent blog. Nothing like reading your favourite book to beat the blues.
These Days my reading is taking a slow pace due to work pressure but I still make sure I read a few pages daily so that I never go out of habit and actually it feels good.
I really needed this! I keep struggling to make time for reading, but these simple tips make it feel more doable. Maybe starting with just 5 minutes a day is the way to go!
I absolutely love this guide! It’s practical, motivating, and feels like a warm nudge to read more. I am participating in readingwithmuffy challange