Yes, the benefits of reading are undeniable.

However, if you’re anything like me, you know that finding time to read is a genuine challenge.

Not only does it offer a gateway to self-improvement and personal development, but it is also a cornerstone for those serious about achieving success in any area of their life.

But here’s something that might surprise you…

In my opinion, reading is the most important habit you can cultivate if you’re serious about achieving success in any area of your life.

And it’s not just me saying this.

Keep reading to discover facts that support this claim and might astonish you.

Reading: What Research Says

If you’re reading this, you likely recognize the value of reading.

Many studies highlight the vast benefits of reading. Not only does it broaden your knowledge and vocabulary, but it also diminishes stress and boosts mental health.

Furthermore, reading fosters greater creativity, sharpens critical thinking, and enhances problem-solving skills.

Interestingly, a study from the University of Sussex discovered that reading for merely six minutes daily can slash stress levels by a whopping 68%.

Moreover, researchers at Yale University discovered that people who read for at least 30 minutes a day lived an average of two years longer than non-readers.

Many successful people attribute their achievements to a consistent reading habit.

For example, Bill Gates reads about 50 books per year, Warren Buffett spends 80% of his day reading, and Oprah Winfrey credits much of her success to her love of reading.

These prominent figures recognize the value of learning from others’ experiences, insights, and expertise, which enables them to make better decisions and navigate the complexities of life with greater ease.

So, if you’re not much of a reader, but you are willing to give it a shot because you understand the potential benefits, I’m here to help.

In this article, I’ll share with you my simple method for building a reading habit (and falling in love with reading!) that will help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

Diving right in…

Choose Books That Elevate You

Reading any type of book is beneficial for your personal growth, but let me share with you what I’ve found to be most valuable.

I tend to gravitate towards books that challenge my thinking, help me build a stronger mindset, help me grow spiritually, as well as biographies of great leaders.

I am talking about books like:

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (sponsored) by Stephen Covey

• The Magic of Thinking Big (sponsored) by David J. Schwartz

• Can’t Hurt Me (sponsored) by David Goggins

These are just a few examples of the types of books I love to read.

Top 3 Books for Success Seekers

If I had to recommend just three books to you, they’d be:

1. Think and Grow Ric (sponsored) by Napoleon Hill.
   
   This book is more than just a guide to making money—it is a guide to unlocking the potential of your mind and unleashing your true power.
   
   
2. Rich Dad, Poor Dad (sponsored) by Robert Kiyosaki.
   
   This book got me thinking about “Assets Vs. Liabilities” and what I learned was significantly instrumental to me owning twelve apartments and two homes by age 27.
   
   
3. The Power of Intention (sponsored) by Dr. Wayne Dyer.
   
   This beautiful book had a profound impact on my spiritual journey.
   
   Of the three, this is the one I recommend the most.

Needless to say, if you’re aiming to elevate your personal growth, I strongly suggest giving these books a try. You’ll be glad you did.

Top 3 Hacks for Reading Regularly

1. Start Reading on Your Computer Using the Kindle App

   Transitioning to the Kindle app transformed my reading habits.

   Before that, even a 100-page book seemed daunting to me.

   But the Kindle app changed my perspective.

   Somehow, it “tricked” my brain into forgetting about the page count; because in digital form, all books seem extra thin 😉.

   Overall, the app truly enhances the way you interact with your reading material.

   For example, highlighting key passages and setting bookmarks couldn’t be easier.

   Another great feature is the built-in dictionary…

   Just right-click on any word, and you’ll have the option to view its definition instantly.

   Gone are the days of scratching your head or relying on context clues to decipher unfamiliar words! 🙌

   Plus, it remembers exactly where you left off, whether you’ve bookmarked the spot or not, which is incredibly convenient.

2. Track Your Reading Sessions

   I make it a point to read for 30 minutes a day, divided into two 15-minute sessions.

   That’s my non-negotiable minimum. Any minute beyond 30 is a bonus.

   By the way, this simple approach is part of a strategy I’ve coined as the “Book Switch” method, which I’ll explain in detail shortly. I think you’ll like it!

3. Keep a Book or E-Reader Visible

   Another simple yet effective trick is to keep your book or e-Reader within sight—like on your nightstand.

   Simply placing my Kindle in plain sight had a subtle but effective result:

   It contributed to roughly an extra hour of reading each month.

   And that, my friend, deserves a toast. 🥂😊

In short, when you tuck your books away, you’re letting the “out of sight, out of mind” principle work against you.

If the book is hidden, it is easy to forget it even exists.

Book-Switch Method 101

Reimagine Reading: The 15-Minute Approach

We’ve all faced the challenge: diving into a book only to find our attention waning after just a few minutes.

Instead of enduring hour-long reading marathons, consider breaking your reading into 15-minute sessions.

This approach alone can be transformative.

But the real magic unfolds when you introduce variety into those sessions.

By switching to a new book in the middle of your routine, it’s like presenting your brain with a fresh puzzle just as it starts to get bored.

The outcome?

Effortlessly extended reading times.

Rediscovering the Joy of Reading

Say goodbye to the days when reading felt like a mere task.

With this method, every reading session becomes an adventure.

By diversifying your material and pacing yourself, you’ll rekindle the joy of immersing yourself in a book.

Master Book-Switching in 3 Steps

1. Selection is Key: Start by picking two books that intrigue you.

2. Time It Right: Using FocusMaster™ or your preferred app, set two 15-minute timers.

3. Dive In and Switch: Begin with the first book. When the timer goes off, take a short 5 to 10-minute break, then dive into the second book.

Start by trying out this method a few times a week.

As you become accustomed to it, you’ll find it easier to make a daily routine, aiming for 5 to 7 days a week

Here are some personal tips for you:

• If you finish a session, there’s no need to take a break. In fact, many times my only “break” is the brief moment it takes to start a new timer.

• If you’re engrossed in a book, feel free to continue reading the same book into the next 15-minute slot.

Read More, Achieve More

Congratulations on taking the first step towards a stronger reading habit and discovering the amazing benefits of reading! 

By reading this article, you have empowered yourself with the knowledge to become a consistent reader, unlock your full potential, and achieve your personal and professional goals.

This practice will not only uplift you, but will also foster deeper connections with those you interact with.

As you learn and grow from the benefits of reading, you will be better equipped to communicate and connect with others on a deeper level.

Remember, reading is not just a hobby; it is a valuable tool for self-improvement and personal development that gets better and easier with practice.

Start small, and soon you’ll find yourself reaching for the next book and eager to learn more.

So go ahead and take action today! 

Use the FocusMaster™ app to help you focus and track your reading sessions, and take advantage of The Book-Switch Method to make reading a pleasurable experience.

Now go change the world, friend–you’ve got this! 

In love and service,

Gabriel Aguiñaga
The Productivity Guy^©

P.S. While you can time yourself with any timer, even your phone’s, FocusMaster™ offers a more engaging experience with features not found in regular timers.

Discover how FocusMaster™ can elevate your personal productivity at FocusMaster.app

P.S.S. Don’t be shy, say hi! Drop a comment 👇