As a seasoned reader, I can honestly tell you that I have experienced a book slump or a book burnout one time or another. It is not easy to get through and extremely hard to get out of.
I have experienced a 3 year book slump between the years of 2014-2017. Just getting out of college, got married, and was thrown into the work field. I didn’t have time to read nor did I want to. Reading was not my thing whatsoever. I was very fortunate to have a coworker who loved to read.
She, for some reason, made it her mission to find a book I would love. She first gave me a murder mystery. Yuck. Never picked it up. Then she introduced me to Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard. My life since then has never been the same.
My reading slump came when I excessively read books I wasn’t in the mood for or forced myself to read too many books in that month.
But what is the difference between a book slump and a book burnout? Let me share with you what is the difference and some of my top tips to avoid the next book slump or book burnout.
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Book Slump:
A book slump, also known as a reading slump, refers to a temporary period when a reader struggles to engage with or enjoy books.
During a book slump, you might find it challenging to get into a story, lose interest quickly, or feel like you’re not finding books that captivate your attention. It can happen for various reasons, such as stress, distractions, or having read several books in a row that didn’t resonate with you.
A book slump is usually a short-term phase, and readers often overcome it by discovering a book that reignites their enthusiasm.
Book Burnout:
Book burnout, on the other hand, is a more intense and prolonged feeling of exhaustion and disinterest in reading.
It occurs when you’ve been consistently reading a lot, whether due to personal goals, academic requirements, or even being part of a book club or reading challenge. The constant pressure to read can lead to burnout, causing you to feel emotionally drained and unable to enjoy books like you used to.
Book burnout might require a longer period of rest and self-care to recover from.
Now that you know the difference, let me know the tips and tricks I do to get myself out of a book slump or book burnout.
Acknowledge Your Feelings:
Recognize that book burnout is a normal experience and it’s okay to feel this way. Avoid pushing yourself to read when you’re not enjoying it.
Take a Break:
Give yourself permission to take a break from reading. Step away from books for a while and focus on other activities you enjoy.
Reread a Favorite:
Pick up a book that you’ve loved in the past. Rereading a favorite can bring back the joy and comfort of reading.
Read Something Light:
Opt for lighter genres like romance, humor, or young adult fiction. These genres can be easier to engage with during burnout.
Set Realistic Goals:
Set small, achievable reading goals. Don’t pressure yourself to finish a certain number of books in a specific timeframe. Also, don’t let other people who read hundreds of books a year get you down either!
Join a Book Club:
Joining a book club can introduce you to new books and discussions that might reignite your passion for reading. The main place I look for great book clubs is on Facebook Groups. Or my personal favorite, listen to a book podcast! I do have a fantasy-dedicated book podcast called Booktrovert Reader Podcast!
Create a Comfortable Reading Space:
A big game changer for me was making a place dedicated to reading. Make sure your reading environment cozy and inviting. A comfortable space can make the reading experience more enjoyable.
Limit Distractions:
The distractions are endless. I am looking at you Bookstagram! Minimize distractions that might be contributing to your burnout. Put away your devices and find a quiet space to read.
Engage in Other Hobbies:
This was a hard one at first, but well worth the effort. Pursue other hobbies you enjoy, such as painting, hiking, cooking, or crafting. Taking a break from reading can actually help you come back to it with renewed enthusiasm.
Set Realistic Expectations:
Don’t pressure yourself to finish every book you start. If a book isn’t capturing your interest, it’s okay to put it down and try something else.
Read Shorter Books:
Choose shorter books or novellas. Completing a book quickly can give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Rediscover Your Passion:
Reflect on why you love reading in the first place. What aspects of it do you enjoy? Reconnecting with your passion can be motivating.
Celebrate Small Achievements:
Celebrate each book you finish, no matter how short or simple. Positive reinforcement can boost your reading motivation.
Practice Self-Care:
Take care of your overall well-being. Self-care is so good for our mental well being. Get enough sleep, exercise, eat well, and engage in activities that make you happy.
