How to encourage yourself to read more in 2026

Despite the scrolling and screens, our love for stories isn’t lost - here’s how to rebuild your reading rhythm

I don’t know about you, but every single year I have “read more books” scribbled somewhere on my list of New Year resolutions. At this point they’re less “resolutions” and more gentle suggestions to my future self - but still, there’s something oddly therapeutic about jotting down my hopes for the year ahead.

And honestly, I love reading. There’s nothing more satisfying than getting lost in another world, soaking up every word on the page and watching the story unfold in your mind like your own private cinema. The only problem? Actually picking up a book. After a long, stressful day, it’s far too easy to collapse on the sofa with mindless TV or scroll through Instagram for… well, longer than we’d like to admit. But choosing to crack open a book? “I’ll do it later,” we say. And then later comes, and we’re tired, or busy, or suddenly very invested in reorganising the spice cupboard.

You’re not alone. So many of us want to read more, but turning that desire into an actual habit can feel like trying to push a boulder uphill. And while tech has given us endless entertainment options, it’s also shortened our attention spans. With a few small tweaks, you can absolutely build (or rebuild!) a joyful reading habit in 2026. And it doesn’t involve forcing yourself through 50 pages a night or reading only “serious” books. It’s about finding what works for you.

Here are some fun, friendly, science-backed ways to make reading part of your everyday life again:

1. Habit-stack your way into reading

Pair reading with something you already do every day. Morning coffee? Read two pages. Lunch break? Five minutes with your book. Bedtime? Swap scrolling for a chapter. When a habit is attached to another habit, your brain stops seeing it as a chore and starts seeing it as routine.

2. Set goals that don’t stress you out

Instead of saying “I’m going to read 30 books this year,” try something softer like “I’ll read for 10 minutes a day” or “I’ll read one book a month.” Smaller goals feel achievable, and achievable goals keep you motivated.

3. Make your environment irresistibly cosy

Reading is easier when it feels like a treat. Create a little reading nook - soft blanket, warm lighting, your beverage of choice. Turn it into your mini sanctuary. When your brain associates reading with comfort, it’ll naturally want more of it.

4. Remove distractions (yes, that means your phone)

Phones are the biggest reading sabotage. Pop yours in another room, or at least flip it face down. If you’re using an e-reader, turn on airplane mode. The fewer dings and pings, the easier it is to sink into a story.

5. Read what you actually enjoy

Life is too short to read books you think you should read. If fantasy is your thing, indulge. If you love romance, devour every page. If non-fiction lights you up, brilliant. The more fun you have reading, the more likely you are to come back for more.

6. Join a book club - or simply tell people what you’re reading

Yes, accountability really does work! Whether it’s a real book club, a friend group chat, or sharing your current read on social media, it gives you a little extra push to actually pick up your book so you can join the conversation.

7. Make reading part of your identity again

This one’s a sneaky psychological trick. When you tell yourself “I’m a reader,” even if you haven’t read much lately, your actions start aligning with that identity. You’ll be more inclined to choose reading because it feels true to who you are.

A gentle reminder

Reading should never feel like homework. Think of it as a way to unwind, escape, learn, laugh, or whatever you need it to be. Your reading journey in 2026 doesn’t have to be perfect or impressive. It just has to feel good. So here’s to rediscovering the joy of stories, one page at a time. You’ve got this - and your next favourite book is waiting for you.