Since I post book reviews from time to time I am often asked how I find the time to read so many books. Aside from studying God’s Word, reading is one of my best sources for encouragement. I cannot begin to describe all of the things I have learned in just the past year through reading. I’m sure that most of us would agree that reading is important but how do we squeeze the time out of our already busy schedules to do so? I thought it might be helpful to offer a few thoughts on incorporating more reading into your own life.
- Make a Commitment: to read even if it is a small one. You could either make a goal to read a certain number of books per year or to spend so many minutes per day reading. During extremely busy seasons of life I may only read 10 minutes daily. The important thing is just to read. (I currently have a goal of reading 4 books each month.)
- Read Before Bed: I believe I have been reading before bed ever since the days when it was my Mom reading the Little House books. Even while in college this continued to be a tradition of mine. It is a great way to unwind and prepare for sleep.
- Carry a Book With You: I purposefully usually only carry a purse that can accommodate a small book inside. In this way I am able to make good use of my time wherever I am. It also makes the time pass much more quickly.
- Read While Nursing: One thing that I absolutely loved about nursing was how much reading I could do. I read dozens of books while snuggled up close with Eli.
- Guard Television Time: The average American spends 4 hours a day watching television which equals out to 9 years of a person’s life. Try turning your television off for an evening and reading instead. I guarantee your evening will be more pleasant.
- Invest in Audi Books: Most local libraries have a great selection of audiobooks on both cd and cassette tape. I love to listen to a tape while traveling or even cleaning the kitchen. Just another great way to make better use of your time.
Read a Variety of Books: I try to read a wide variety of books. Currently I am reading a nutrition book, job search book, craft book, and a marriage book. I try to think of all of the different hats I wear and choose books to help me in different areas. It is amazing what you can glean from the pages of a book!
Emerson Family 
I am currently reading a science fiction, a book about cutting your grocery bill, and a book about getting pregnant… Lol. That doesn’t include blogs, e-mail newsletters, recipes, cookbooks, and crochet patterns. I really don’t know how I do anything BUT read.