I did quite a bit of reading last month about time management and my reading goals, and it just so happens I did not get them all achieved. That personally really bothered me. So, I will try to back off on my reading goals and challenges this year. The main reason I am not challenging myself this year is how I felt after failing last year. One of my BIGGEST issues is time management, and I bet many of you who row this boat with me are out there.
Here are some practical tips that I am hoping will help me improve my reading habits and time management skills:
1. We all already do this one, pretty much. But, if you are starting your literary journey, this tip could help you: If you are going to set personal and achievable goals, pick out how many books you would want to read within the given period or in the time you spend reading. And that’s important if you never want to lose the motivation to keep drumming until you achieve your goal.
2. Plan your reading schedule: Set some time within your timetable that you would devote to reading and ensure that you regulate yourself strictly to those periods. I suggest this will enable you to develop a good habit of reading regularly and help prevent distractions.
3. Prioritize time for reading: Read daily like any other important activity that cannot be compromised. Do not postpone reading by planning regular time, which has to be spent only on reading, free from different activities or interference. I have difficulty doing this, but I am determined to do my best this year. Last year, I had set so many goals that I read all the time, neglecting my household responsibilities.
4. Practice time management skills: As book lovers, our best friends are book planners, journals, and organizers. Start writing a daily to-do list. Turning our phones off is another big problem I have. I am always wanting to check my social media 🤨
5. Avoid multitasking: Give your attention to your reading. This will enable you to avoid getting distracted and not waste any time meant for your reading time.
6. Track your progress: Record your reading totals and time management for motivation and to see where you’re lacking. This is where your journal will come in very handy.
While pouting about my goals, I read something that said, “The issue of reading and time priorities plays an important role in the personal development process and achieving specific goals. Thus, reading and effective time management skills would certainly be ways of balancing one’s reading time and personal life.”
