Finding time to read can feel impossible. But reading is one of the most powerful ways to expand our minds, reduce stress, and gain new perspectives. If you’ve ever wanted to build a reading habit but struggled to stick with it, a task management app like Planndu can make all the difference.
This guide will show you how to use technology to set reading goals, track progress, and make reading a daily habit—without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, we’ll look at the science behind why reading is so beneficial and provide practical tips for getting started when reading feels difficult.
Why Reading is Good for You
Reading isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way to keep your brain active and engaged. Studies have shown that reading has a positive impact on memory, stress levels, and cognitive skills.
A study published in Neurology found that people who read regularly experience slower cognitive decline as they age. Another study from the University of Sussex discovered that reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. Researchers from Science found that reading literary fiction can improve our ability to understand and connect with others emotionally.
Reading has also been shown to stimulate neural pathways in the brain, improving cognitive function and potentially slowing age-related decline. The act of immersing yourself in a story or absorbing new information exercises your brain, keeping it sharp and active. Additionally, when you read, your body releases tension, which is why studies show it lowers stress levels.
Regular reading strengthens our ability to focus. With so many digital distractions, paying attention for long periods has become more challenging, but reading trains the brain to stay engaged for extended stretches.
As George R.R. Martin once said, “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.”
With all these benefits, the next step is making reading a consistent habit. That’s where a task management app can help.
How to Use Planndu to Read More
Making reading a habit is easier when you incorporate it into your daily routine. A task management app like Planndu can help by giving you structure and gentle reminders. Here’s how:
Set a Clear Reading Goal
Goals give your reading habit direction. Instead of saying, “I want to read more,” define what that means. Do you want to read one book per month? 20 pages a day? Audiobooks count too! Once you set a goal, add it to your task manager as a recurring task so you stay accountable.
Schedule Time for Reading
If you wait for the perfect time to read, you might never get around to it. Instead, schedule it like any other important activity. Choose a time that fits naturally into your routine, such as before bed, during lunch breaks, or right after your morning coffee. Set up a daily or weekly reminder in Planndu to prompt you to open your book.
Try the Pomodoro Timer for Focused Reading
If distractions make reading difficult, use Planndu’s Pomodoro timer to create short, focused reading sessions. Set a timer for 25 minutes and read without interruptions. After a break, you can decide whether to continue or stop for the day. This method prevents burnout and makes reading feel more manageable.
How to Start Reading When It Feels Difficult
If you’re out of the habit of reading, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are some ways to ease into it:
- Start small. If reading feels overwhelming, don’t force yourself to finish 50 pages in one sitting. Start with just five or ten minutes a day.
- Pick books that genuinely interest you. If a book feels like a chore, try something else. There’s no shame in reading light fiction, graphic novels, or even short stories. The key is to enjoy the experience.
- Create a cozy reading space. Whether it’s a comfortable chair or a corner of your room, having a designated reading spot can make the habit more inviting.
- Use audiobooks. If sitting down with a book feels hard, try audiobooks while commuting, cooking, or doing chores.
- Join a reading challenge. Friendly competition or a structured goal can be a great motivator.
I used to struggle with finding time to read. I always thought I needed long, uninterrupted hours to finish a book. But once I started using reminders and breaking my reading into smaller sessions, I realized how easy it was to build consistency. Now, even just ten minutes a day adds up, and I’ve read more books this year than ever before. Sometimes, the hardest part is simply opening the book.
As J.K. Rowling wisely said, “I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a good book”
Reading is not something you have to force—it should be an enjoyable part of your day. The more consistent you are, the more natural it will become. By using a task management app to set reminders and keep yourself motivated, you’ll turn reading into something you genuinely look forward to.
So, why not start today? Pick up a book and take the first step toward a richer, more imaginative life. Download Planndu now and make reading a daily habit. Happy reading!📚
