Let’s be honest. Most of us want to read more, but we feel too tired or too distracted. Some days even reading one page feels like a struggle. But what if I told you it’s not about reading for hours, but about making small, smart changes to your daily habits?
You don’t need to cancel your social life or uninstall all your apps. You just need to sneak in more reading moments into your day.
And the best way to kickstart that habit is with the help of Sarasavi Bookshop. They have books for everyone. School students, university folks, parents, first-time readers, and serious bookworms. You can walk into your nearest branch or simply order online and get your next read delivered right to your doorstep. Easy, convenient, and affordable.
Now let’s get into the list.
1. Carry A Book With You Everywhere
This is the simplest habit to start. Just pop a book into your bag before leaving the house.
Waiting at the bank? Read. Stuck in traffic on the bus? Read. Arrived early for a class or meeting? Read a few pages. You’ll be amazed how these short pockets of time add up. Even if you read just 5 minutes at a time, that could be 20 or 30 minutes of extra reading per day.
Example: Let’s say you carry The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* with you. You could easily finish a chapter or two during your daily commute over the week.
2. Read Instead Of Scrolling
We’re all guilty of picking up our phones and opening social media without thinking. Try replacing just 10 minutes of scrolling with reading instead.
Keep your book next to your phone or even on top of it, so it becomes your first option.
Example: Instead of watching 10 Instagram reels before bed, you read 5 pages of a novel like Norwegian Wood. Not only will you sleep better, but you’ll also feel more relaxed.
3. Set A Daily Page Goal
Goals give structure. Decide on a simple goal, like reading 10 pages per day. That’s doable for anyone. If you’re reading a book with 300 pages, you’ll finish it in one month without pressure.
Over time, as your reading stamina improves, you can increase your goal.
Example: If you’re reading Atomic Habits, commit to just one chapter a day. It’s short, powerful, and will also help you build better habits in general.
4. Make Reading Part Of Your Morning Or Night Routine
Routine makes everything easier. Instead of scrolling your phone first thing in the morning or right before sleep, try reading instead.
Reading in the morning sets a calm, positive tone for the day. Reading at night helps you wind down and sleep better.
Example: After brushing your teeth at night, read a few pages of The Alchemist. Light, inspiring, and a perfect bedtime read.
5. Listen To Audiobooks During Travel Or Chores
Not every reading has to be with your eyes. Audiobooks are a brilliant way to read while doing other things. You can listen while walking, cooking, or cleaning.
Example: If you’re stuck in traffic or doing dishes, you can listen to Rich Dad Poor Dad. You’ll finish a book in a few days without setting aside extra time.
Audiobooks are available on apps like Audible, Spotify, and even YouTube.
6. Create A Cozy Reading Spot
Your environment plays a big role in your reading habit. Set up a small reading corner with a comfy chair, a pillow, and good lighting. Keep your current book in that space.
It will become your mini escape zone, and your brain will automatically associate that space with relaxation and reading.
Example: Have a favorite chair near the window? Add a cushion, a blanket, and place your book on the side table. Maybe light a candle in the evening. It’ll feel like your own little library.
7. Join A Book Club Or Reading Group
Sharing what you read makes it more fun and meaningful. Join a book club where you can discuss stories, exchange ideas, and stay motivated to finish books on time.
Example: You can be part of the Sarasavi Book Club, where members chat about books online, attend author interviews, and even meet up. It’s a great way to stay inspired and discover new titles.
8. Choose Books That Genuinely Interest You
Don’t force yourself to read something just because it’s trending or someone else recommended it. If you love thrillers, read thrillers. If you enjoy poetry, read poetry. If you want to learn a new skill, grab a non-fiction guide.
Example: If you’re into mysteries, pick up Sherlock Holmes. If you like deep emotional stories, go for A Little Life or a local Sinhala classic from Sarasavi’s collection.
When the book speaks to you, reading becomes effortless.
9. Always Have A Reading Backup On Your Phone
Install a reading app like Kindle, Scribd, or Google Books. This way, even if you forget your physical book, you’ll always have something to read during spare time.
Example: Waiting in line at the passport office? Open your Kindle app and continue from where you left off. No wasted time.
Bonus: Sarasavi is also working on more digital access options for future readers.
10. Celebrate Your Reading Milestones
Finished a book? Celebrate it. Share a quote from it on social media. Write a small review. Add it to your Goodreads list. Even treat yourself to a new book from Sarasavi as a reward.
Celebrating builds motivation and gives you a sense of progress.
Example: After finishing Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins, you reward yourself with 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson. You now feel inspired and excited for the next one.
Final Though
Reading is not a race. You don’t need to read a hundred books a year. You just need to build a relationship with books. And the best way to start is by making small changes that suit your life.
Choose one or two tips from this list and try them for a week. See what works best for you. And don’t forget to stop by Sarasavi Bookshop or visit their website for your next read.
One page a day can change everything.
