It's The Book, Not You

Sometimes a book doesn't connect with you and that's okay! Don't be too dedicated. Move on and come back later. I believe that we need to read or hear different stories at different times. At different points in our life, these stories will mean different things. If you just can't seem to connect with the book, maybe there is a reason. Maybe you can come back to it later and really connect with it. Maybe right now, you need a different story.

Personally, I find it helpful to sometimes switch genres completely. If I can't get into a fantasy adventure, maybe I'll try a romance or a sci-fi book. It really helps to jump into a completely new world. It also sometimes help to choose a book that is a different size. If you're reading a particularly long book, the size can sometimes be intimidating and lead to a lack of motivation. By choosing a shorter one, you can ease back into your reading routine before choosing a new book.

Sometimes it isn't the world or the size, but the characters. Personally, I've been stuck on this one book for a while because I just don't like enough of the characters. It is okay to move on--you wouldn't hang out with people you dislike, why would you spend time with fictional people you don't like?

It's You, Not The Book!

You may experience yourself in a reading slump when you have little time to read. You might also be lacking motivation. Try not to get distracted.

If you're busy with school, work, or other hobbies, you can still find time to read! If you're determined enough, you'll find time that you might usually spend on social media or watching television to pick up a book. Another great habit to get into is bring a book along with you wherever you go. How many times a day do you find yourself waiting for something, staring at your phone? You could be using that time to read!

There is also the problem of motivation. After a long day, staring at a screen is just easier. But if you really want to read, you will. It's all about making it a habit. It helps me to even set a goal of pages to read each day until I'm back into the routine of reading everyday. I also find it helpful to keep a list of books read each year. That way, it gives you a sense of accomplishment every time you finish one.

Once you gain control over time and motivation, you'll have no more excuses to not read!

It's You and The Book

Get it together. Pick something that will interest you. If not, you'll be left bored and with no motivation. Start small and simple!

If all else fails, you can always go to your friends for recommendations. Choosing a book that someone you know has already read and enjoyed not only ensures you will probably like it too, but it should motivate you to read it so that you can discuss it after!

Don't give up on a book too early, either. Read a few chapters, get to know the characters and the world before you decide you don't like it. Some writing styles take some getting used to, but you never know what might be your next favorite book!