KICK-START YOUR READING HABIT
On my maternity leave, I read only two books. And one was Elizabeth Strout’s
Olive Again – which only death would have kept me from. For a person who had always been a voracious reader, it felt like a real personality change.
Returning to work after a baby, people love to spout clichés. ‘At least you’ll be able to have a hot drink/wee on your own/read a book on your commute…’ But four weeks in, and I just stared into the distance catching up on podcasts.
It occurred to me that reading is massively habitual – something I’d always done in fits and spurts, so I just needed to jump back in. But, honestly, I was tired. So, after googling some advice, I got an Audible membership and eased in by listening to the incredible audiobook of Margaret Atwood’s The Testaments.
I’d been cynical, but it was a great way to passively restart that thirst for plot. I’m lucky enough to have a handsfree commute, so it was easy to fit reading into that time. But I made one key change – the second I sat down (or stood grabbing a pole) I put my phone in my pocket. As with all habits, getting into a routine helped – I stomped to the station daily, excited to rejoin the characters.
It can also feel overwhelming seeing everyone’s ‘shelfies’ online (too much to pick from, the constant worry there’s something better out there to read) and seeing your own stack up on your bedside table (intimidating) – so I decided to start an online reading wish list. It was out of sight, but there when I wanted to add something I’d seen on Instagram. I also started to read before bed at night – I’d somehow lost this habit and tended to switch on
Newsnight which, in current times, was getting stressful. There are definitely bigger life changes you can make – but honestly, it was about rediscovering a part of me and other worlds I’d missed.
Finally, the key is to always have a book on hand, ready should you get a moment. Today, I’ve left my book at home and I’m feeling bereft. But I guess at least that means I’m back in the habit.