finding time to read when life is hectic
I loved this suggestion for a newsletter / blog topic that came from one of my followers. Originally I was going to aim it at busy parents but who am I kidding? Life gets away from all of us and we all want to find more time to read, right?
Here are my tips for finding time to read when life is hectic!
Audiobooks
Don’t let anyone tell you listening to an audiobook isn’t really reading. If they say it, put your headphones on and walk away.
Since having kids, this is the number one way I consume books. I can now read while driving, cleaning, cooking and exercising. I’m a visual learner so it did take some practise taking in content by listening but now you’ll find me listening at x2 chipmunk voice speed and loving it.
eBooks
“But I don’t have a Kindle.”
Don’t fret, my friend. The Kindle app is free and you can read from your phone. Plus, there are other e-reader apps out there too.
Once you have your book on your phone, you can swap a doom-scroll for a reading opportunity. Five minutes here and there can make a difference - a waiting room, lunch break, a supermarket queue, kids activities, commercial breaks - before you know it, you’ll be marking another book as ‘Read’ on Goodreads. Flex.
For anyone who does have a Kindle my favourite accessory is the Strapsicle. Perfect for when I cuddle the kids on the couch. They watch their movie and I read my book without running the risk of dropping my Kindle on their head.
But the kids…
I hear you! They are adorable, beautiful time thieves.
While I do occasionally hide in the pantry or bathroom with a book for five minutes, there’s nothing wrong with reading while your kids are around. It’s actually really positive for them to see your love of reading and hopefully develop their own passion for books.
September Self-care reminder
September meant springtime in the Southern Hemisphere and I thought that meant the end of winter illnesses. Boy, was I wrong. I’ve been in hospital twice this month. I’m a young, fit mum so this was a reality check for me that it doesn’t matter who you are, you need to listen to your body and rest. I’m on the mend now and I’m lucky to have a supportive husband and family around to make rest possible.
So, for those of you still battling the winter bugs and for those of you in the Northern Hemisphere approaching the dreaded cold months, make your health a priority, get your rest and find time to read. Here are some of my recent favourite reads.
