In today's fast-paced world, it often feels like there's never enough time in the day. Many of us are juggling work, family, and personal commitments, and it can seem impossible to find a moment to read. As a book lover and organizer of a world-famous book club, I understand how easy it is to push reading to the side when life gets busy. But reading is a gift that allows us to escape, learn, and grow. The joy of immersing ourselves in a good book is something that brings comfort, insight, and inspiration. When we read, we not only entertain ourselves but also expand our minds and nurture our creativity. That’s why it’s worth making time for books, even when life feels overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—small, consistent moments of reading can add up to a lot over time.

If you’ve ever thought, “I just don't have time to read,” you’re not alone. But with a few simple adjustments, you can create space for books in your daily routine. You don’t have to set aside hours at a time. In fact, reading for just a few minutes here and there can be incredibly rewarding. It’s about making reading a priority, even in the busiest of days. Whether it’s scheduling reading time, reading during breaks, or using audiobooks while on the go, there are many ways to fit in reading without feeling overwhelmed. The key is to start small, be consistent, and find what works best for you. Let’s explore how we can all make more time for reading and continue to enjoy the wonderful world of books.

Schedule Your Reading Time

One of the best ways to make more time for reading is by scheduling it just like any other important task. In our busy lives, we often find time for work, meetings, or other commitments, but reading can easily be pushed aside. I’ve learned that when I treat reading like a priority, rather than a luxury, I can always find time for it. For example, I started setting aside 30 minutes each morning before my day begins. It wasn’t much, but it made a huge difference. You can also try scheduling reading time during lunch breaks, while commuting, or before bed. The key is consistency. By planning your reading time, you turn it into a regular part of your routine. You’ll quickly realize that even small moments of reading add up over time, helping you read more without feeling overwhelmed.

Another helpful tip is to set a realistic goal for how much you want to read each day or week. This goal doesn’t need to be big; even reading a few pages or a chapter a day can make a difference. You might want to set a goal like reading for 15 minutes each day or finishing a chapter every two days. Having a goal gives you something to work toward and helps make reading a habit. As you check off your goals, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that will motivate you to keep going. Just remember to keep it flexible, as life can sometimes get in the way. The idea is to keep reading a regular part of your routine, and soon, you’ll find that you’re reading more than you ever thought possible.

Utilize Short Breaks Throughout the Day

One of the easiest ways to find more time for reading is by taking advantage of shorter pockets of time throughout your day. Many of us have brief moments during the day when we’re waiting for something or taking a break, and these can be perfect opportunities to dive into a book. Whether it’s waiting for a friend to arrive, waiting in line at the store, or during a lunch break at work, you can grab a book or an e-reader and get a few pages in. I’ve found that these short bursts of reading, while small in the moment, can add up to a lot over time. At first, it might feel like it’s not enough, but when I look back, I realize that these moments are what helped me finish a book during a busy week.

Another time to think about is during your commute. If you take public transportation, riding the bus or train gives you a perfect chance to read a few chapters. Even if you’re driving, audiobooks can be a great way to enjoy a story without taking up extra time. These moments of the day are often when we don’t have much else to do, so why not make the most of them? Even if you only have 10 to 15 minutes, you’d be surprised at how quickly those minutes add up over the course of a week or month. The key is to make the most of those in-between times, so they don’t go to waste.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that reading doesn’t always need to happen in long stretches. Sometimes, all it takes is finding those small moments throughout the day. In fact, these 10-15 minute bursts of reading can help you stay engaged with the book and make progress without feeling overwhelmed. Before you know it, you’ve finished a chapter or two, and your reading habit is growing steadily. You’ll find that making use of these small windows of time can make reading feel more doable, no matter how busy life gets.

Combine Reading with Other Activities

Another great way to make more time for reading is by combining it with other activities you already do. For example, you can listen to audiobooks while exercising, cleaning the house, or even cooking dinner. I started doing this a while ago, and it’s amazing how much more I’ve been able to read without adding extra time to my schedule. Multitasking in this way helps me keep up with my reading goals, even on busy days. Some of my most productive reading moments happen when I’m walking, doing laundry, or washing dishes. These tasks don't require much thought, so I can easily focus on the story in my audiobook. It’s a simple way to fit in extra reading time without feeling like you’re missing out on anything else. So, get creative with how you use your time. You might just find that combining reading with other daily tasks helps you finish books faster while still accomplishing everything else you need to do.

Making time for reading is all about prioritizing it in your day-to-day life. We all lead busy lives, but when we carve out small moments to read, those moments add up. It doesn’t have to be a long reading session; even just 10 or 15 minutes a day can make a big difference over time. What matters most is the consistency. Reading becomes a part of your routine, and soon enough, it feels natural. So, think about how you can make reading a habit, even in the busiest of times.

I’d love to hear your own time-saving reading tips! What little changes have helped you find time for books? Whether it’s a unique strategy or just a small adjustment to your day, your tips can inspire others to start making reading a regular part of their life too. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue celebrating the joy of reading, one page at a time.

Reading has always been a big part of my life. As one of the organizers of a world-famous book club, I’ve had the joy of discovering countless stories and connecting with others who share the same passion. Every book we read opens up new worlds, sparks conversations, and leaves a lasting impression. But with so many books and experiences, it’s easy to forget the little details that once made a story so special. That’s where keeping a book log has truly changed the way I read.

A book log isn’t just a list of titles and authors. It’s a space to reflect, capture thoughts, and remember the moments that stood out. Whether it’s a quote that gave me pause or a character who reminded me of someone I know, writing it down makes those memories stay with me. I’ve found that it also deepens my understanding of stories. Sometimes, flipping back through my notes weeks or months later brings a whole new perspective. Even the books I didn’t particularly enjoy have taught me something, and having a record of that journey makes my reading experience all the more valuable.

If you’ve never kept a book log before, it’s never too late to start. You don’t need anything fancy — a simple notebook or a digital note app works just fine. The key is to make it your own. Write about what moved you, what made you laugh, or what you’d like to remember years from now. You might be surprised by how much joy it brings. Not only does it make reading more meaningful, but it also allows you to see how your thoughts and feelings evolve over time. Starting a book log is like starting a conversation with yourself, one that will grow with every story you read.

Tip 1: Choose Your Format

When it comes to starting a book log, the first step is choosing a format that works best for you. Everyone has different preferences, and what feels right for one person might not work for another. Some people enjoy the tactile experience of writing in a notebook or journal. There’s something about putting pen to paper that can feel personal and reflective. A journal allows for doodles, margin notes, and little reflections that make the experience more intimate. If you like the idea of a keepsake you can flip through in the future, a physical journal might be the perfect choice.

On the other hand, digital options offer convenience and flexibility. There are plenty of apps designed specifically for readers to log their books, jot down thoughts, and even rate their reads. Apps like Goodreads or StoryGraph provide a sense of community as well, where you can see what others are reading and share recommendations. For those who prefer a straightforward, no-frills approach, a simple spreadsheet can work wonders. Spreadsheets let you track details like title, author, genre, and personal ratings, making it easy to spot patterns in your reading habits. You can even add columns for memorable quotes or thoughts on characters and themes. Ultimately, the best format is one that you’ll enjoy returning to. If you find that a journal inspires thoughtful reflections, go for it. If you prefer the organized look of a spreadsheet or the interactive experience of an app, embrace that choice. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s about creating a space where your reading journey is celebrated. Experiment with different methods until you find what feels right, and remember that it’s okay to switch things up as your reading habits evolve.

Tip 2: Track Beyond Titles and Authors

When it comes to keeping a book log, it’s easy to think that writing down the title and author is enough. But there’s so much more to capture from a reading experience. One of the most rewarding parts of maintaining a book log is jotting down notes that go beyond the basics. Think about including your favorite quotes that stood out to you, even if they’re just a single sentence that made you pause and reflect. Themes are another great aspect to track. Did the story explore love, friendship, resilience, or loss? Noting these themes helps you see patterns in your reading preferences and deepens your understanding of the stories. Personal reflections can also be incredibly meaningful. Write down how a particular scene made you feel, or if a character’s journey reminded you of something in your own life. Over time, these reflections become like a diary of your thoughts and emotions through the lens of the books you’ve read.

Another way to make your book log more enriching is to track additional details that shape your reading experience. Some readers enjoy recording the genres they’ve explored. This can be especially helpful if you’re trying to diversify your reading habits or challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone. You might also keep track of reading challenges, like a goal to read a certain number of books in a year or to finish books by authors from different backgrounds. Additionally, noting your mood while reading can add an insightful layer to your log. Was this book a comforting escape during a stressful time, or did it inspire you when you were feeling stuck? Seeing how your emotions connect with your reading choices can be eye-opening. Ultimately, tracking beyond titles and authors turns your book log into a deeply personal reflection of your reading journey, making it a treasure you can look back on for years to come.

Tip 3: Set a Reflection Routine

Taking time to reflect on the books you’ve read can deepen your connection to the stories and uncover new insights. It’s easy to move on to the next book right away, especially when your to-be-read list is long. But pausing for a moment and thinking about what a book meant to you can make your reading experience more memorable. Try setting aside a regular time for reflection, whether that’s once a month, every couple of books, or at the end of a reading challenge. Reflection doesn’t have to feel like homework. It can be a relaxed moment with a cup of tea, a walk in the park, or even a few minutes before bed. Having a consistent time to look back on your reading can help you appreciate the themes that resonated most and notice patterns in your interests. You might even find that certain books connect in unexpected ways, revealing deeper meanings or personal insights.

To guide your reflections, consider using prompts. Simple questions like “What stayed with me from this book?” or “Would I recommend it to someone else?” can spark meaningful thoughts. You might also ask yourself, “Did the book change my perspective on anything?” or “How did the characters’ experiences relate to my own life?” If you’re tracking your reading in a journal or app, jotting down a few sentences can be enough. Don’t worry about writing a perfect summary — just capture what felt important to you. Some readers even enjoy adding star ratings or noting which emotions the book stirred. Over time, these reflections become a beautiful record of your reading journey. They’ll remind you not just of the stories you’ve read, but also of how those stories shaped your thoughts and experiences. Reflection is a small step that can bring lasting joy to your reading life.

Reflect and Grow Through Your Reading Log

Keeping a book log is more than just jotting down titles and authors; it’s about creating a space to capture your thoughts and memories as you journey through stories. Over time, you’ll notice patterns in your reading tastes, themes that resonate deeply, and authors who consistently captivate you. You might even surprise yourself by revisiting old entries and realizing how a particular book influenced your perspective. Every note you take adds to a growing record of your literary experiences, enriching your appreciation for the books that shape you.

I would love to hear how you keep track of your own reading adventures. Do you have a special notebook for your reflections, or perhaps a favorite app that keeps everything organized? Maybe you like to include doodles or small sketches inspired by the stories you read. Whatever your approach, sharing our book log tips and experiences can inspire others to find what works best for them. Building a reading community where we exchange ideas and recommendations makes the journey even more enjoyable.

If you haven’t started a book log yet, now is a wonderful time to begin. There’s no perfect method, only what feels right for you. Let it be a reflection of your reading life—joyful, insightful, and uniquely yours. Every book you read adds to your story, and a log helps you celebrate that growth. Happy reading, and may your book log become a treasured companion on your literary adventures!