How To Read Multiple Books at Once

I’m always reading more than one book at a time. WHAT. I can’t do that. Yes, yes you can. I’m here to tell you how. It’s a lot easier than you think. I’m not saying do five at a time (although sometimes I do that) I’m saying at least two. Let me break it down for you.

You’ve done it before.

You’ve been in school and learned about multiple subjects at the same time. There was a point in your life where you were taking seven classes. SEVEN! Now you can’t read one book, but that’s okay. It’s about progress remember?

You read things for each class. Your mind is capable of balancing more than one subject. It may be rusty but we got to get those gears moving. Some of us have even had some college experience where we definitely read multiple books at once. If the thought of University still gives you PTSD, that’s okay. Take it slow. Pick up one book and listen to another. Balance babe.

Try Mood Reading

I’m a big mood reader. What does that mean? I read what I’m in the mood for. That’s why I read multiple books at once. It’s not because I can’t decide on one, it’s because some days I want a self-help motivational read and other days I don’t want to think too hard about what I’m reading, I just want to relax.

We do this all the time with our other forms of consumption. I’m sure you watch multiple TV shows, why not read multiple books? The point is, you are always changing and every day is different. Don’t hold reading accountable for your evolving bloom. If you don’t feel like reading, maybe listen to a podcast or an audiobook. The point is to tune into your mood and find what works for you.

Start With Two

I like to always have a fiction book and a non-fiction book at my bedside. Sometimes, the non-fiction book is an audiobook. I find that I learn best when I listen to things. How do you learn best? Maybe that’s how you need to consume your non-fiction read.

For fiction, mix it up. Try something new. Or don’t. The fiction book you’re reading should make you happy. It’s always good to step out of your comfort zone and discover something new, but if you’re adding another book to your mix, stay with what’s comfortable for you first and then mix it up. No one said you had to do three challenges at once. Build a new habit, one at a time.