Hi all! 

Welcome back to another Top 5 Wednesday! Today I want to discuss my tips at overcoming a reading slump. A slump is a period of time where you have no desire to read whatsoever. It’s awful! All readers go through this at some point in their life. There’s no worse feeling than wanting to dive into a book with all of your heart, but not being able to do so. Let’s do this!

#1 – DON’T FORCE IT 

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just have to step away from the books and do something else for a while. If you try to force it, you may find yourself even deeper in the slump. Binge watch a show, de-clutter your space, engage in a new hobby, exercise, spend time with friends or listen to music. After a while, you may just find you want to read again. The most important thing to do is stay busy and not put unnecessary pressure on yourself. The love will return. I promise! 

#2 – TRY A DIFFERENT FORMAT 

If you only read physical books, try listening to one on audio or break out your e-reader. There are multiple ways to read. I like to use all three. That way, if I ever get tired of staring at a screen, I can go for a walk and listen to the story instead. The same goes for types/genres of books. Try a contemporary novel if you only ever pick up fantasy. Read a graphic novel or a comic book. Short stories and novellas are a great way to break out of a slump. Mix it up! 

#3 – RE-READ AN OLD FAVOURITE 

There’s a reason the familiar is so comfortable. Re-reading an old favourite is like slipping into a warm, cosy bath. This really does work in the midst of a slump. I have a gigantic TBR (To Be Read) but sometimes, I need to step away from the unread novels and re-visit an old love. It’s never a waste of time. Every single re-read brings a new layer and depth of appreciation. Try it and see. 

#4 – BUDDY READ 

Like exercise, humans are much more motivated to act if a friend is involved. Buddy reading provides incentive to keep up with the other person, discussing the plot as you both go along. I’ve heard it’s an excellent way to enjoy reading again. It’s like being part of a mini book club. I am definitely going to use this tip the next time I find myself in a slump. 

#5 – VISIT A BOOKSTORE OR LIBRARY 

Artists visit galleries for inspiration, so it makes sense for a book-lover to wander through bookstores and libraries, seeking the same result. Whenever I enter a library or bookstore, I am filled with a longing to pick one up. The smell of books, the beautiful covers, the promotional posters, the atmosphere etc. It all serves to entice the reader into starting a new story, losing themselves in the process. A little outing may be just what you need. 

Thank you so much for reading! Please list any tips you have down below.

Peace & Love xoxo