Deep reading, or full engagement in a book, is an absolute joy. It is good for mind and spirit, and it is also a competitive advantage in today’s knowledge-based economy. However, many people struggle to pay attention to just about anything, let alone a book.
Use a hardcopy book
There are two predominant theories for why this is the case:
Read for at least 30 minutes
It takes time to get into a groove.
- There is nothing wrong with reading in the nooks and crannies of your day, or listening to an audiobook while walking your dog or doing household chores, but this is not the same thing as deep reading.
Think of deep reading as a muscle: You’ve got to train it
The ability to pay full attention and get absorbed in a book is built over time.
- It may be hard at first (especially if you are rusty), but it gets easier. Eventually, it becomes enjoyable.
Have no digital devices in the room
Even if your phone is on silent, or your laptop is closed and asleep, the mere sight of these devices can be a huge distraction. Keep them in a separate, non-disrupting, room (e.g., bedroom)
Read as much as you can
Books are the best bargain there is.
Keep a notebook nearby
Random thoughts will pop into your mind – jot them down so you don’t lose them, and can offload them from trying to hang on to them
