You purchase a book, begin reading it and promise to really finish it but somehow, after reading a few pages, the book suddenly ends up on your bookshelf. With commitments at work, phones beeping, and social media draining our attention, getting the right time to read a book could be challenging.
With 'Book Lovers Day' on August 9, perhaps the best way to make reading a part of your routine is to create a comfortable space for it. It is not necessary to have a special library or an entire wall of bookshelves. Poor lighting, a crowded place, or uncomfortable furniture can stop you from getting your daily dose of reading.
Get yourself a quiet little corner
Find a place where very few people will disturb you when you are reading. A corner of a rarely visited bedroom or the adjacent space next to a window, or the end of the hall, or part of your balcony could work.
The space does not have to be large. What matters is keeping it separate from areas associated with work, television or scrolling.
Make comfort a priority
Choose seating that lets you sit comfortably for a while. An armchair is an easy option, but a floor mattress, beanbag, cushioned bench or firm cushions can work too.
Add a cushion for back support and a throw for colder evenings. The goal is to create a spot you actually want to return to.
Get the lighting right
Natural light is ideal during the day, so placing your nook near a window can help. For evening reading, use a floor or table lamp that provides enough focused light without creating glare.
Decorative lighting can add to the atmosphere, but make sure the pages are properly illuminated.
Keep books within reach
You don’t need an elaborate bookshelf. A small shelf, side table, basket or neat stack of books can hold your current reads.
Keeping a book within easy reach removes one small obstacle between deciding to read and actually picking it up.
Add a few personal touches
A compact side table can hold your tea or coffee, reading glasses, bookmarks or a notebook. A small indoor plant can also make the corner feel more welcoming, provided it suits the available light.
Add a favourite cushion, artwork, photograph or small rug if you like, but avoid filling the space with clutter.
Keep your phone away
A reading session can quickly turn into a scrolling session after one notification. Leave your phone elsewhere, switch on Do Not Disturb or keep it beyond arm’s reach.
Start small and use the space
You don’t need expensive furniture or hours of free time. Start with 10 or 15 minutes a day and keep a book in the nook.
This Book Lovers Day, instead of adding another title to your reading list, give the books already waiting for you a place you’ll want to return to.