10 Tips to Get Out of a Reading Slump

We’ve all been there — staring at our bookshelf, scrolling through our TBR list, and feeling… nothing. Reading slumps can sneak up on even the most dedicated bookworms. The good news? They don’t last forever, and with the right approach, you can rediscover your love for stories in no time.

Here are 10 practical and comforting ways to get out of a reading slump and bring the joy of reading back into your days.

1. Reread a favorite

Go back to the book that made you fall in love with reading. Rereading is like revisiting an old friend — familiar, comforting, and full of warmth. It reminds you why you loved reading in the first place.

Comment: This is what I do most often. It’s so hard to open a new book!

2. Try something short

Sometimes the thought of starting a 500-page novel feels overwhelming. Try a short story, a novella, a poetry collection, or even a graphic novel. Finishing something short can rebuild your reading momentum and boost your confidence.

Comment: I don’t have much time to read, so I use this a lot. I like to finish the books I start, not leaving them unfinished. If you’re interested, I have one book recommendation that fits this criteria…

3. Read in a cozy, pressure-free way

Set the mood: a warm drink, soft lighting, your favorite blanket. Changing your reading environment can make the experience feel fresh and inviting. Reading should feel like comfort, not homework.

Comment: This is usually a luxury I can’t afford. I read when I can, so I don’t lose time in the preparations, but I admit that it sounds delightful.

4. Switch formats

If holding a book feels like a chore, try an audiobook or ebook. Listen while you cook, walk, or commute — it keeps stories alive in your daily routine and takes the pressure off.

Comment: I don’t own an ebook reader (yet!), but sometimes I read on my phone. I have to admit it’s a lot easier when you don’t have to bring a book everywhere. And about audiobooks… I tried them once. Not for me.

5. Lean into your current interests

Instead of forcing yourself to read what you should, read what you’re genuinely curious about. If you’re obsessed with a show, historical period, or hobby, pick a book related to it. Curiosity reignites motivation naturally.

Comment: I usually do this with fanfics, but regular books can work too!

6. Give yourself permission not to finish

You don’t have to finish every book you start. Forcing yourself through a boring read only deepens the slump. Letting go is a form of self-care — your time is too precious for stories that don’t spark joy.

Comment: Gotta be honest, my toxic trait is that I refuse to do this. Why? Because books are expensive, darn it! I will finish that book, even if I hate it.

7. Talk about books (even if you’re not reading much)

Join a reading group, watch BookTube, or scroll through book blogs. The excitement of other readers can be contagious and might just remind you why you love stories.

Comment: I do this pretty often, even right now (at the time of writing this). I love talking about books. In fact, that’s why I started this blog! You can Join the Club if you’re interested…

8. Change genres

If you’ve been reading only one type of book, shake things up! Try romance, fantasy, cozy mysteries, or even non-fiction. Sometimes your brain just craves a different flavor.

Comment: This is always a good idea. You might even discover you like a particular genre you haven’t read yet. Lately, I’ve been craving a romance, even though it usually doesn’t interest me.

9. Do a “reading reset”

Pick one evening, turn off distractions, and open a book that genuinely excites you. Read just one chapter — no pressure to go further. You’ll be surprised how easily you get pulled back in.

Comment: As a general rule, I apply this to every book I buy. If I’m not excited about it, I don’t buy it in the first place (remember, books are expensive!).

10. Make it easy to start

Keep a book by your bed, in your bag, or on your phone. The easier it is to reach for a story, the more likely you’ll start reading again — even for five minutes at a time.

Comment: I would do this more often if books weren’t so darn heavy. That’s why I’m considering buying an e-book reader.

Final Thoughts

Reading slumps are normal — they don’t mean you’ve stopped being a reader. Sometimes your mind just needs a rest, or a change of pace. Be kind to yourself, experiment with new formats, and trust that your love for books will always come back.

So there you have it, 10 tips to get out of a reading slump. Or advice for reading in general, you decide. I find this really helpful when reading starts to become a chore rather than something I enjoy, and I hope you do too!

Anyway, have a wonderful day, and I hope to see you again in the next one. Bye!