There’s a stack of books on your nightstand that’s been there since approximately the last time you thought “this year I’m actually going to read more.” No judgment — it’s basically a modern monument at this point.

The good news: you don’t need a two-hour window, a perfectly quiet room, or a complete personality overhaul. You need a different approach, not more time.

Why You’re Not Reading (And It’s Not Your Fault)

Photo by Reynaldo Yodia on Pexels

Most adults genuinely want to read more. Pew Research consistently finds that Americans who don’t read list “too busy” as the top reason — not disinterest. The desire is there. The setup is wrong.

The real culprit is the myth of the perfect reading session: quiet house, phone face-down, nothing else demanding your attention. That version of reading is lovely. It also happens about four times a year if you’re lucky.

Reading never gets a “good” moment if you’re waiting for a great one.…