Even if you regularly plow through books at record speed, chances are you will eventually face a reading slump.
A reading slump is when no matter what you do or what you read, nothing holds your attention, and often you have no desire to read.
Slumps are one of the biggest nightmares for book lovers because they can impact your confidence as reader.
So what can you do to get out of a slump and get back to those books?
Tips For Getting Out of A Reading Slump
Read A Different Genre
Sometimes a slump can be caused by genre fatigue. The best way to remedy this, is to read a different genre than you normally do.
You can either pick a genre that you like, but don’t read often, or try something completely out of your comfort zone.
Try A Different Format
Oftentimes, switching your format can help renew your interest in a book. Audiobooks are great for this, because you can move around and do other things while you listen to the story.
If listening’s not your thing, you can also switch to an e-book and read on your phone or tablet.
Read A Series
Stand-alones are popular right now, but series still hold their own in the world of books.
Series are great for breaking you out of a slump because they get you excited about where the story is going, but the story is broken up over the course of several books so it’s easier to digest.
Take A Lap Around Book Social Media
Reading is trendy these days. Which means that books are all over social media. This great because seeing what others are reading, can inspire you back into reading.
My favorite right now is Bookstagram, the bookish side of Instagram. It’s such an amazing community and I’m finding more and more new Bookstagrammers every day.
I also am enjoying several book groups on Facebook. They always are full of book suggestions which I love.
Change Your Scenery
Human beings are creatures of habit. We often go to the same places and do the same things. But if your reading routine is feeling monotonous, try reading in a different setting.
If your couch is your go-to reading spot, try sitting outside or going to a coffee shop. If you commute on public transportation, bring your book along.
Re-Read A Book You Love
Going back to a story you already know and love, makes reading easier because you already know the story and what’s going to happen.
Plus, getting the feels all over again is a great way to fall in love with reading again.
I’ve always found that my re-reading books that I already love makes it easier to get back into reading when I’ve been in a slump.
Do Something Else
If all else fails, take a break from reading. Do another hobby that you enjoy.
Knit a blanket, play a board game, then come back and try reading again.
Final Thoughts
Reading slumps can be frustrating, but they don’t last forever. Eventually, you’ll get back to your book-loving self.
Do you have any tips for getting out of a reading slump? Let me know in the comments.
