8 months ago
Tips to Read More Without Pressure in 2026
Reading books can be a great way to relax and learn new things, but many people find it hard to make time for it.
Some people feel tired from reading in school, while others prefer scrolling on social media.
To get back into reading, it's important to choose books that you enjoy and make reading a part of your daily routine.
You can read during lunch breaks or before bed, and try different formats like e-books or audiobooks.
It's also okay to skip a book if it's not interesting.
Joining a book club or seeing others read can be motivating.
The main goal is to make reading a fun and enjoyable habit.
The percentage of Americans reading for pleasure has decreased from 28% in 2004 to 16% in 2023.
Choosing enjoyable books and setting a reading routine can help build a reading habit.
E-books and audiobooks offer convenient ways to read, especially with free access through library apps like Libby.
Silent book clubs and seeing others read can motivate individuals to maintain their reading habit.
It's okay to skip a book if it's not engaging, as reading should be enjoyable and not feel like a burden.
- Who
- Adults struggling to maintain a reading habit
- What
- Tips to read more without pressure in 2026
- Where
- United States
- When
- 2026
- Why
- To reduce stress, increase creativity, and boost empathy
Key facts
- Percentage of Americans reading for pleasure (2023)
- 16%
- Percentage of Americans reading for pleasure (2004)
- 28%
- Recommended reading format for convenience
- E-books and audiobooks
- Tool for book recommendations
- NoveList
- App for free e-books and audiobooks
- Libby
- Social activity for reading
- Silent book clubs
- Recommended initial book type
- Joyful and engaging books
- Expert on attention span
- Gloria Mark, University of California, Irvine
Quotes
Jacqueline Rammer
Director of Menomonee Falls Public Library in Wisconsin
“It’s difficult for people who are really tired and busy to think about getting into reading if it’s not something they’re used to”
firstpost.com
“I think the guarantee of knowing that things are going to end up OK is really reassuring”
firstpost.com
Jocelyn Luizzi
Software engineer from Chicago who blogs about books
“Your first book should be something that you think will be joyful”
firstpost.com
Gloria Mark
Attention span expert with the University of California, Irvine
“Start by scheduling reading into your day”
firstpost.com
Shannon Whitehead Smith
Book blogger from the Atlanta area who also works in marketing
“Seeing all these other people reading motivates me to put my phone down and pick up this book that’s sitting beside me”
firstpost.com
Jess Bone
Researcher with University College London
“Reading shouldn’t feel like a burden”
firstpost.com
