I love reading, it is my favourite way to pass time. It is my favourite way to zone out from the rest of the world and it is just generally my favourite thing to do. So, when a reading slump happens it is incredibly disheartening and makes me feel like I am a bad reader.
I’ve been in a reading slump for most of September now and no matter what I do, I cannot get out of it. It is not the fault of the book I’m reading because I’m enjoying that, but no matter what I do I just cannot read more than a few pages at once.
I think this reading slump may have appeared because September has been a very busy month with a lot of changes and a few big life events happening throughout. Having to move out to get your house decorated and then moving back in will do it. Then, add having an operation at short notice into the mix and that is bound to leave me in a reading slump. But, I want to get past this reading slump and find my love of reading again because I feel as though it will make my recovery a lot more comfortable and keep my mind busy. Also, it will help me to feel like I more myself again.
So, what can you do to combat a reading slump? There are so many tips and tricks out there to get you out of the reading slump you are in but all of them are not guaranteed to work for everyone. Personally, I’ve tried rereading some of my favourite books to no avail. One thing I’ve found that has worked for me though is listening to audiobooks. I’ve been listening to audiobooks on my commute or whilst I’m doing jobs around the house and that has been an excellent way to get some reading in. Even if it has been a couple of hours each day, it has made a difference for me.
I’ve learnt with this reading slump. One thing being, that I need to not stress myself out over not being able to read. I need to learn that even though I’m incredibly excited about all the new and interesting books I have on my shelf that reading slumps are normal and not to feel pressured into reading. The more I stress about it, the least likely I am to read.
Whatever you do, remember that reading slumps are completely normal for readers. It is the equivalent of having a burnout and we just need to be kind to ourselves when they happen. I know I find that part particularly difficult because I hate when I cannot read. But, remember to put yourself first and reading will come back to you when you are both ready!
Do you struggle when you are in a reading slump? What are your tips on getting out of reading slump? Let me know in the comments below!
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