So, you’ve reached that burn-out point of the year where you’ve exhausted all options and you just don’t feel like reading. Everything you pick up loses your interest, and you can’t finish a book for your life.
Yep. You’re definitely in what we call a “book slump”.
But fret not! I just so happen to be an expert in all things book slump-y and I’m going to help you break out of this funk and get back to reading! Check out some of these tips to help defeat that book slump!
1. Don’t Force Yourself To Read
Let’s face it: if you’re not in the mood, you’re not in the mood. If reading doesn’t spark your interest, then do something else! Bake cupcakes, write a poem, go out for a walk…just don’t force yourself to read. Reading is supposed to be a fun, relaxing hobby. Do NOT bring stress into your safe space! If you’re not in the mood to read, step away from it for a little bit and spend your time doing something else creative! You’ll eventually miss your beloved books and slowly get back into the swing of reading.
2. Pick Up an Old Fave
Speaking of beloved books, there’s nothing like rekindling a love of reading by picking up one of your favorite books! For a long time, I never used to reread books (my TBR pile is waaaay too long for rereads), but now I try to reread my favorite books at least one a year. Whenever I fall into a book slump, I sometimes forget my love for reading. I know, shocking! But it happens, and there’s nothing wrong with needing the occasional reminder! For me, all it takes is a reread of V.E. Schwab’s A Darker Shade of Magic, I’m usually ready to get back into tackling my TBR!
3. Switch It Up
Maybe the reason why you’re experiencing book burn-out is because you’re reading too much of the same thing. Don’t be scared to dive into a new genre! If you’re a massive contemporary romance fan, why not check out some historical romances? Into sci-fi? Check out some dystopian novels! Do you usually read YA books? Maybe read some adult novels written by your favorite YA authors! There’s a world of books out there, don’t be scared to mix it up!
4. Try A Different Media
If you’re anything like me, then you love reading physical books, however, this can sometimes be burdensome. It’s hard to get into a comfortable position and then there are the constant distractions that come up while you’re reading. If you find yourself getting bored of the same old stuff, try picking up an audiobook or e-book! This small switch could be exactly what you need to break out of your slump! Whenever I find myself falling into a reading slump, I pick up an audiobook to play in my car while I drive to work/class. It’s easy, fun, and allows me to multitask!
5. Treat Yourself To A New Read
I always say it, but there are millions of books to read. If you’re stuck on your TBR or placed a firm book buying ban on your funds, it wouldn’t hurt to expand your horizon. If buying new books isn’t your thing, head to the library to check out a book! Browse the shelves and buy yourself a cup of coffee. Whenever I’m physically around books, I always get inspired to go home and curl up with a new read! It could be the push you need to get back to doing what you love: reading!
The truth of the matter is that book-slumps are inevitable. Sometimes, we just aren’t in the mood to read and that’s okay! At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how much you read, or if you even read at all. You’re a reader no matter how fast or how slow you go and I think that’s the beautiful thing about books; they don’t judge!
