Reading Slumps: The Bane of any Reader’s Existence

And a few steps to get over yours!

Reading has always been a source of delight and enlightenment for many of us. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in the pages of a book, exploring new worlds, meeting fascinating characters, and expanding our horizons through the written word. However, there are times when that joy seems to fade, and we find ourselves in what is commonly known as a “reading slump.” And I have been a victim recently.

A reading slump is that disheartening period when no book seems to capture your interest, when the once-beloved activity of reading feels more like a chore. The good news is that you are not alone, and there are proven strategies to help you reignite your passion for books. In this article, I will delve into the world of reading slumps and share some practical techniques to break free and rekindle your love for reading.

All of these step actions have been tried and tested by me! Since I have recently been also suffering from said reading slump, I will very soon also share a rolling article where I give daily accounts of how following these actions have helped me!

Understanding reading slumps

Before we dive into the solutions, let us take a moment to understand why reading slumps happen. They can be triggered by various factors, including stress, lack of time, or simply falling into a routine that does not prioritize reading. Sometimes, it is the result of an unsatisfying book choice or the pressure to finish a book quickly. Recognizing these factors can be the first step toward overcoming a reading slump.

Let me try to list the reasons why and how it happened to me:

1. After a hectic day, I started to just lie in bed and preferred scrolling on social media rather than picking up a book. I became too addicted to electronic media and it overtook all my leisure time in general. I would now scroll during the free time I had, instead of reading like I used to, previously.
2. I put a lot of pressure on myself. Earlier I knew that I could read a book in a day or two. However, with my current lifestyle, it is not possible. As such, that whole realization felt like failure itself to me — that I cannot read books quickly anymore. The only way I could deal with this was to face this fear and tell myself continuously that reading is not a race.
3. Because of this fear too, I was picking up mostly adult romance novels and at this point, I feel like I have read so many of those, that I need a break from all that as well!
4. Moreover, I was reading books that I should read more than I read books that I actually wanted to read. This is a fine balance that I seemed to have lost over time.

Steps that can help you deal with a reading slump

Here are some steps that can possibly help you get over your reading slump.

1. Setting realistic reading goals

One of the most common reasons for a reading slump is setting overly ambitious reading goals. While it is great to challenge yourself, it is also essential to be realistic. Start by setting achievable reading goals.

Instead of aiming to read a certain number of books in a month, consider setting aside a specific amount of time for reading each day. Whether it is 20 minutes before bed or during your daily commute, these small, consistent efforts can reignite your reading habit.

Alternatively, tell yourself that you will read 20/30/40 pages everyday. Increase this over time, say, every week.

2. Curating your reading space

Your reading environment plays a significant role in your reading experience. Create a cozy and inviting reading nook that you will look forward to spending time in. Arrange comfortable seating, add soft lighting, and keep your favorite books within arm’s reach. A well-curated reading space can make a world of difference in how you perceive and enjoy your reading time.

For me, the space matters a lot. I always work/study at my work table. I never take it to my bed. As such, at this point, I have trained my body such that whenever I am at my table, I immediately start working.

Likewise, maybe make the bed a cosy place where you can read; I personally do this. You can also set a corner in your living room, by your bookshelves or even your balcony. I often enjoy reading in my balcony early in the mornings with a cup of tea.

3. Exploring different genres

Another effective way to beat a reading slump is to step out of your comfort zone by exploring different genres. If you typically read fiction, try delving into non-fiction or fantasy. Exploring new genres can refresh your reading experience, introducing you to new perspectives, writing styles, and themes. You might just discover a newfound passion for a genre you had not explored before.

You can also check out the different formats of books available — graphic novels, and audiobooks. Picking up short story collections has also helped me over time. You can also go back to your guilty reads for a palate cleansing experience.

4. Finding community in book clubs

Reading can sometimes feel like a solitary activity, which can contribute to a reading slump. Consider joining a book club or reading group. Sharing your thoughts, insights, and book recommendations with others can make reading more social and enjoyable. It is a fantastic way to stay motivated and discover books you might not have picked up on your own.

5. Practicing self-care and patience (and DNFing a book when necessary)

Last but not least, remember to be kind to yourself. A reading slump is a natural phase that all readers go through at some point. Instead of pressuring yourself to read a specific number of books or finish a book quickly, focus on the quality of your reading experience.

If you are not enjoying a book, it is perfectly okay to put it down and pick up something else. DNFing (Did Not Finish) a book is perfectly fine and you do not have to force yourself to finish a book just because you picked it up and read a bit of it!

Be patient with yourself and allow your reading journey to unfold naturally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a reading slump is a common hurdle that many readers face, but it does not have to be a permanent roadblock. By understanding the factors that contribute to a reading slump and implementing practical strategies, you can rekindle your love for reading. So, do not let a reading slump discourage you. Embrace these strategies, and soon, you will find yourself immersed in the world of books once again, rediscovering the joy, wonder, and magic that reading has to offer.

I hope my tips in dealing with a reading slump help you too! In the next article in this series, I will be sharing a real week of a reading slump treatment plan, where I actually take on action everyday and revolve my reading around that.

I look forward to hearing about your experience with the same. How did you cure or are curing yours? Have you recognized the reasons behind your reading slump?

Happy reading!

Nayanika Saikia graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and was also a Dean’s List student. She recently graduated with a First Class Master’s Degree in English Literature. She is a Booktuber and Bookstagrammer. She can often be found on her Instagram account Pretty Little Bibliophile.

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