It’s once again the time of year when we form our New Year’s resolutions. “Read more” is a common resolution, but unfortunately, many people abandon the novels they ambitiously started on January 1 by mid-month. If you want to read more and carry the habit through the whole year, check out these tips from the employees of the world’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s, shared by Well+Good. 

1. Carry a book with you at all times. Finding time to read is one of the biggest challenges. Carry a book with you so you can flip it open when you’re in line at the grocery store, riding the bus, waiting at the dentist, or any other time you find yourself with a few extra minutes on your hands. 
2. Set page goals, not book goals. It’s daunting to say you will read 12 books in 2021, but committing to 20 pages a day is far more manageable. 
3. Read while your kids read. If you have children, commit to reading with them before bedtime. It will help you set the habit and it’s a good example for your kids. 
4. Ask for recommendations across generations. If you’re older, ask a young person for a book they love and vice versa. Getting out of your usual genre can help reignite your love of reading. 
5. Read shorter books. If you’re only halfway through a 500-page book, finishing it can be overwhelming, but a 200-page novel is far more digestible. Start by reading shorter books or even long essays that you are more likely to finish.
6. Use audiobooks. Studies have shown that audiobooks have the same cognitive benefits for us as visual reading. Put on an audiobook when you’re doing basic tasks and chores for entertainment and mental stimulation. 
7. Alternate fiction and non-fiction. More diversity will keep you excited about each new read.
8. Set reminders. Sometimes finding the time to read is as simple as a reminder on your phone. If you go to bed at 10, set a reminder for 9 each night to put away Netflix and read for 30 minutes before bed. 
9. Make a relaxing environment. A cozy nook with your favorite blanket and a hot cup of tea will get you in the mindset to crack open a book. Set the mood and read away!
10. Practice makes perfect! Like any other habit, the more you read, the faster you will get. Get into the habit of reading a little bit every day and in no time it will be a pleasurable and natural part of your routine.