Developing reading habit amidst all the distractions

In a world full of screens, notifications, and endless distractions, picking up a book and delving into its pages seems like a fading art. The art of reading, once a cornerstone of human intellectual growth, is now at risk of being overshadowed by the siren calls of social media, video games, streaming services, and bite-sized content.

Reading was as simple as picking up a book and getting lost in its world. Now, it feels like an Olympic event just to muster the focus required to get through a single chapter. The modern world's attention span has been whittled down to that of a goldfish, and it's no thanks to the never-ending parade of distractions that dance across our screens.

With attention spans waning and information overload at its peak, developing a reading habit demands more than ever. It calls for intention, strategy, and a conscious effort to carve out a space for literature in our lives.

Retreat from chaos

Carving out pockets of serenity becomes essential in a world that has grown louder by the day. Farhan Hasin, an academic topper at Dhaka Residential Model College, swears by the morning hours as his sacred reading time.

"I wake up an hour earlier than usual," he says, "This solitary hour not only helps me escape the chaos but also sets a tranquil tone for the entire day. As the night's sleep resets the dopamine level and brings in a fresh, vigorous mind, I can concentrate on academic or non-academic reading."

It's crucial to create a peaceful environment for reading and set aside a specific time for it. The tranquillity of the morning hours can serve as a lifeboat to rescue us from the sea of modern distractions.

Setting realistic reading goals

Devouring an entire book might seem daunting with the barrage of information from every corner. This is where the art of setting realistic reading goals comes into play. Mehereunnesa Aurpa, a fervent fiction reader, says, "I'm a slow reader. Of course, it is not possible for me to finish an entire book in one sitting. So I set a goal of reading like just 20 pages a day." She reveals, "It's a manageable target, and most often, once I start, I get hooked, and I end up reading more."

As Meher underscores, the key is not to overwhelm oneself with the ambition of finishing a book in one sitting. In an age of diminishing attention spans, shorter reading sessions can be surprisingly effective.

Defying the allure of instant gratification

In an era where information lies at our fingertips, the allure of quick fixes and bite-sized content is hard to resist. However, readers understand the profound difference between consuming ephemeral digital snippets and immersing oneself in the depths of a well-crafted narrative.

Sabit Anan, another avid reader and writer, affirms, "Being bombarded by short-term entertainment from all sides, it is easy to lose ourselves in the spiral of Instant Gratification. However, pushing it aside can help us cultivate a reading habit that leaves us with timeless wisdom for a more meaningful life."

Developing a reading habit entails resisting the pull of instant gratification and embracing the slower, more immersive world that books offer.

Picking up the correct reading material

A lot of people struggle to find reads to their liking. Opting for subjects that resonate with personal interests, professional growth, or a captivating story can kindle curiosity. Whether it's classic literature, non-fiction essays, or even graphic novels, the journey of a thousand pages begins with a single page. An effective way to begin your reading experience is to start with something familiar.

E-books and Audiobooks

Despite the potential adverse effects of electronics on reading habits, it's worth noting that being online doesn't always hinder one's ability to read. In recent years, the popularity of eBooks and audiobooks has played a significant role in keeping people engaged with reading. Audiobooks may benefit individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), who often struggle with short attention spans that make it challenging to sit down and read.

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