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Master Your Reading Goals: 5 Science-Backed Strategies for 2025

Americans are reading fewer books than ever, with an average of just 12.6 books per year according to a 2022 Gallup poll. Seventeen percent of people reported reading no books at all during the previous year. With nearly 3 in 10 people struggling to finish what they read, developing effective reading strategies is crucial.

Here are five ways to read more books in 2025:

  1. Find Your Motivation
    As philosopher Jared Henderson points out, reading more books simply as a vanity project probably won’t keep you engaged. Research shows that purpose-driven reading leads to better comprehension. Recognize how reading can expand your mind, enrich your life, and develop your human potential–especially when you include your Bible. Take it to heart and understand the genuine value of good reading.

  2. Schedule Your Reading Time
    Productivity expert Cal Newport argues that we need to treat reading the same way we treat physical exercise. Many experts emphasize the importance of blocking off specific chunks of time to turn pages. By guaranteeing dedicated reading time, you ensure you’ll get through more books instead of leaving it to chance.

  3. Read Books That Genuinely Interest You
    Studies indicate that engagement increases significantly when readers choose materials that truly captivate them. There’s no point in reading books you feel you “ought” to read or that you won’t finish. Pick up something that hooks your interest and doesn’t let go, especially as you’re getting back into reading. Once the habit is established, it’ll be easier to tackle more challenging books.

  4. Read Multiple Books Simultaneously
    Newport, Henderson, and Mark Manson all recommend reading more than one book at a time. This strategy helps maintain reading momentum by providing intellectual variety. The reasoning is simple: fueling your mind with different intellectual foods keeps things fresh. If you get tired of one book, you can pick up another. Ideally, your “currently reading” list should involve a wide range of books that balance each other well.

  5. Minimize Digital Distractions
    Research reveals that digital distractions significantly disrupt reading flow and comprehension. Multiple experts recommend turning off devices or keeping them in another room when you read. One practical solution is using the Minimalist Phone app, which allows you to block the apps that typically waste your time and pull you away from reading.

By implementing these strategies consistently, you can join the ranks of active readers who enjoy the countless benefits of regular reading, from enhanced cognitive function to gaining more knowledge and becoming a more interesting person to talk to.

–Dwight Widaman

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