4 Tips on How to Develop A Good Reading Habit

Every student finds themselves in a dilemma of how best to develop a good reading habit taking into consideration that it's this bit of work that separates the genius from one who ranks last.

One of Richard Steele's popular quotes tells us that, "Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." That is, as exercise ensures that your body is kept in a fit state, reading keeps your brain in a fit state also.

How can you then get rid of the fear of reading? How can you catch up with your lecturer's pace of teaching? How do you ensure that you read right?

Have a mentality of success.

A soldier who goes out to war with a crumbling state of mind gets to be killed and defeated on the battlefield. This is because, in his innermost self, he is already inferior to his enemies.

As a student, seeing a course as arduous automatically shuts you out of that particular course which gives you a smooth ride towards failure. 

What you are to do is to fall in love with your courses - It's hard, but it is a prerequisite if your reading life must grow.

Learn to be crazy about your courses, just like you go crazy about your favourite celebrity. That way, you can find it hard to think of failing which pushes you all the more to read hard.

Read: 4 Things Students Do Everyday That Makes Them Fail

Work hard

A book is a gift and you are always privileged to open this book again and again. 

As a student who wishes to develop a proper reading habit, study hard and study smart. Ask questions because it doesn't kill to ask questions. Meet people who will be ready to give you pointers on how to read. Get highlighters, post-it notes or jotters with you at all times.

Unwind

This might seem out of place in the tips on how to develop a reading habit but, it is very crucial toward developing a good reading habit. You don't have to be holed up every time with your books; learn to take a breather, play games in between, crack jokes with friends or go out for a stroll. Ensure that these activities are properly timed so as not to spend too much time unwinding rather than reading.

Have an athlete's mindset.

Do not consider the pains now, instead look forward and keep looking at the prize. How wonderful will it be to graduate as the best student in your set?

As a student who has an athletic mindset read about people who have done well or are doing well in schools such as the best graduating students, senior colleagues or your teachers. This creates a picture and standard of what you want to be like.

Following these tips will help you experience the leap you desire in your academics. I hope to hear your success story soon!