How to Improve Your Reading Focus and Overcome Distractions

Introduction

In the past few weeks, I've noticed a trend: I always manage to have my current book readily accessible for me to read, but somehow, I find myself spending more time in front of the TV or browsing the internet, and ultimately, I forget about reading my book. Is there a way to help me focus on reading?

Just stay calm. Understanding and retaining what you read is crucial. If you truly want to focus on reading, it's important to take steps to minimize distractions.

Reducing Distractions

If you really want to 'focus on reading' as you say, you need to turn off your TV, computer, and phone. Sit down with your book and give it your full attention. No distractions allowed! It might help to set a timer and decide to read for an hour or half an hour. As you get into the habit, you can gradually increase the time. You might even consider moving to another room to read, like your bedroom, and leaving your gadgets out of sight.

That's all it takes: quiet and application, with no distractions from newer technologies. Just pick up that book and turn off that damn phone! Enjoy the experience.

Personal Experience: A Lesson in the Past

I remember feeling this frustration 39 years ago, during my 9th grade. We were assigned to read the book Shane by Jack Schaefer. I was determined to make the most of my Sunday by setting aside the day to read the entire book. I felt comfortable in my bedroom and started reading the first paragraph, 20 times, before I was so bored that I gave up.

I thought I was stupid because no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't finish the book. I hated it! The next day in class, I copy other students' answers to the questions about the book. Despite this setback, the good news is that I now love reading and have done so consistently since I was in 10th grade, a short year after my experience with Shane.

Advice That Worked

I had a smart friend who read countless books and always got straight A's effortlessly. One day, she asked me what my favorite book was. Since I told her I hated reading, she gave me advice that changed my life. She recommended reading books about things I love and using my imagination while reading. She also suggested setting the scene, imagining what the characters looked like and what they were wearing.

This advice worked for me. She lent me her copy of Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews, and I was hooked. I stayed up almost all night to finish it, and this experience led me to read other types of books as well. Another trick is to read short stories instead of full novels, as they can be less overwhelming. You can find short stories on Google simply by searching, 'short stories about....'

If you like a movie, try reading the book it was based on. You'll already know what the scenes and characters look like, which can help you imagine the story better.

Final Thoughts

Remember, you are not stupid or incapable. You can do this! I hope my advice has been helpful to you.