How to Balance Studying and Reading: Finding Time for Your Favorite Book
When you are deeply engaged in hard study, finding time to read your favorite book can be a challenge. It's easy to get caught up in the moment and lose track of time. But this doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your studying just because you can't put down that interesting book. Here are some tips and techniques to help you find the balance.
Creating a Reading Routine
One of the most effective ways to integrate reading into your daily schedule is to establish a fixed routine. For example, if you decide to dedicate half an hour to an hour every day to reading, make it a point to accomplish this no matter how busy your day might be. It's important to stay consistent with this routine. This way, you build a habit that turns into a daily necessity rather than a chore.
Reading Strategies to Encourage Time Commitment
Starting with shorter, more manageable reading sessions can make the process more sustainable. Reading very slowly and absorbing the essence can encourage you to gradually extend the time you dedicate to reading. Even reading just a few pages a day can add up over time. Consistency and gradual increases in reading time can help nurture a reading habit that becomes a priority.
Utilizing Every Opportunity for Reading
You don't need to be in a dedicated reading place to find time for your books. Try to incorporate reading into your daily activities. For instance, you can read during breakfast, while commuting to work, or during lunch and dinner at the mess. By doing so, you can accumulate several pages each day, even if each session is brief. For me, I have found that averaging about 30 pages of reading each day has been quite manageable and fulfilling.
Reducing Distractions and Increasing Reading Time
One of the biggest obstacles to finding time for reading is the constant presence of various forms of media. Cutting down on shows, movies, and other forms of entertainment can free up significant time. I used to reward myself with shows like F.R.I.E.N.D.S or Dexter after my experiments, but this only served to eat up my free time. It's essential to prioritize activities that bring long-term benefits, like reading. Books provide knowledge and insights that cannot be matched by short-term entertainment.
Improving Reading Efficiency through Speed Reading
To increase your reading efficiency, you might consider trying speed reading techniques. There are various methods available, such as those described in Speed Reading. Regular practice can make your reading speed almost double or more. These techniques not only help you read faster but also improve your comprehension and retention, which is beneficial for your studies as well.
The Advantage of Digital Books for Busy Schedules
If you find it challenging to carry a physical book around, consider using a digital copy on your phone or tablet. This can be particularly useful for those times when you are attending events where reading a book might not be feasible. For example, you can read your book during a boring wedding party or at obligatory family visits. Kindles or other eBook readers are lightweight and portable, making it easy to snuggle into a reading corner or even use in social settings where people might not even notice your behavior.
In conclusion, balancing studying and reading is a matter of creating a routine, making small adaptations in your daily life, and utilizing tools to enhance your efficiency. By implementing these strategies, you can find the time to enjoy your favorite books without compromising your academic commitments.