Read at Your Own Pace
Reading is not a competitive sport. And there’s nothing wrong with reading slower than others. Leave a comment to join this dialogue, and be sure to see today's writing prompt. [Ed. from the Archive.]
If you're an avid reader and connect with other readers on social media to chat about books and reading goals, you've probably come across a few people who read dozens of books a month. Dozens. You might even be one of those people. And that is… fantastic! It really is. I think it's amazing when people love to read so much that they make it a major part of their daily lifestyles, especially when they share their passion for reading and what they're reading with others, because it’s contagious. Not to mention… I am one of those people.
While I don’t read dozens of books each month, I try to read between eight and twelve books per month. And reading is a part of my everyday lifestyle.
But today's brief post is for those readers newer to incorporating reading into their daily lifestyles, as well as those readers who might be in a temporary reading rut. Or for those readers who are like me and enjoy slowing down with a book every once in a while. May it be a simple reminder to you all that it's okay to read at your own pace.
First, for those of you new to incorporating reading into your daily lifestyle: it's okay to read a bit slower as you explore different genres and writing styles and learn more about your own reading preferences and tastes. There are books out there you'll zip through and adore, books you'll want to slow down and savor, and books that simply won't hold your interest because of your current mood or life stage. And all of that is okay. Enjoy your new reading journey as it unfolds for you, and allow it to evolve in a way that keeps you reading.
Now, for those of you who are currently in a reading rut: it won't last forever, I promise. Reading isn't a competition and it's okay if you read a little less this month than you did in previous months. And it's okay if you read a handful of books per month when others are reading dozens. As long as you're enjoying reading, that's all that matters. Read for yourself, not others. Regardless of how long you've been reading, there will be busier reading months and slower ones. Don't be afraid to try new books and continue to explore new things to read and new people to share your reading experiences with, to keep reading, too. Honestly, it doesn't matter how much you read as long as you keep reading.
And for those of you who like to take your time and savor the books you read, it's okay. There's nothing wrong with taking your time to absorb every little detail of what you're reading, as long as that's what you enjoy. Personally, I am usually a slower reader because I enjoy noticing the nuances of a plot and each character and setting, as well as getting lost in various writing styles and literary techniques different authors implement. Everyone is always in a rush throughout the day, so I don't want to rush my reading time, my downtime. I prefer to savor it instead, especially when I'm reading literary fiction or enjoying an interesting piece of nonfiction.
Bottom line, whatever you're reading today, wherever you are, I hope you enjoy your reading time and that you remember that above all else: reading should be whatever type of experience you want or need it to be.
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Today’s Writing Prompt
Writing Prompt: In the Lab
Write a dramatic scene that takes place inside a science lab.
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