Reading Challenge: My Journey to Completing Five Books This Year
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Chapter 1: The Beginning of My Reading Journey
For as long as I can remember, I’ve never really engaged with books. Gifts of literature were often left untouched, gathering dust in my closet. However, after moving out from my parents’ home, I sought a way to unwind after a hectic day at work. This desire led me to the idea of starting to read.
Surprisingly, I managed to read four books last year, which was a significant achievement for me. This year, I've set a goal to read five books. Although it may not seem like a daunting target, I know it will be a challenge. My job keeps me glued to the computer, constantly working and thinking. Yet, I recognize the importance of disconnecting occasionally, and reading provides that escape.
Recently, I came across a quote that resonated with me:
“Nothing chased away bad dreams faster than the rustling of printed paper.”
- Cornelia Funke -
Yes, I too have my share of negative thoughts and restless nights. Books allow me to focus on a single narrative and clear my mind, which is why I enjoy reading so much.
Section 1.1: My Reading Preferences
I tend to gravitate towards thrillers rather than self-help books like "Atomic Habits." I’ve found that engaging stories are much more enjoyable and easier for me to read. When confronted with dense, academic texts, my attention wanes. Instead, I prefer consuming content through YouTube videos or brief blog posts. However, I’ve discovered a way to enjoy those lengthy books too: I listen to audiobooks. Whether I'm in the car or winding down at night, audiobooks have become my go-to.
Subsection 1.1.1: Strategies for Managing Distractions
Section 1.2: Overcoming Internal Conflicts
One of my major hurdles with reading is my tendency to undervalue it. I enjoy it, but when I start, I often get sidetracked by all the tasks I could be tackling instead, like improving my Etsy shop, writing blog posts, or continuing my work on two different books. To combat this, I've started reading alongside my girlfriend. It’s soothing to have some calming music in the background while she immerses herself in romance novels and I delve into my thrillers.
Chapter 2: The Benefits of Reading
In this video, "5 Fun Reading Challenges For 2024," discover creative ways to motivate yourself to read more books this year and find enjoyment in the process.
Check out this video titled "Announcing the 2024 Read Your Bookshelf Challenge!" for monthly reading prompts designed to inspire your literary journey throughout the year.
Conclusion: Embracing the Reading Habit
I encourage you to begin your reading journey; it truly can be transformative. Share in the comments what books you enjoy, as we live in an age where screen time dominates our lives. Engaging in reading offers a much-needed reprieve from that digital overload.
If you’re interested in enhancing your productivity and would like to support my work, consider purchasing my ebook on Gumroad.
10 Tips on How to Be More Productive
This is my first published book, offering ten valuable strategies for boosting your productivity.
marcodamm.gumroad.com
Alternatively, you can purchase it directly for your ebook reader from various digital stores.
Available now at your favorite digital store!
10 Tips for Becoming More Productive by Marco Damm
books2read.com