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Optimal Reading Routine and Tips
1375 sats \ 7 comments \ @BTCFC 24 Feb 2024 BooksAndArticles

I've always had an appreciation for reading books and have found value in them, however, I'm also not the most avid of readers, but that has been changing in the past 3 months or so, as I've more consistently begun to read on a daily basis. I'm still not smashing through multiple books a month, but I have gotten into a habit of reading more and setting aside time to focus solely on book reading. In the past, I would tend to start a book and not finish it especially when it felt dense and required more mental effort and focus than other books, nevertheless, I am now able to push through and maintain the mental fortitude to finish what I started. Which is great because I have a long list of books to read and I don't like moving on to the next on the list unless I finish the one I started. The one I've started and stopped multiple times but have finally been able to get very close to finishing is The Fiat Standard.

On top of sometimes not being able to finish a book all the way through, I've also struggled with having my mind drift off, or reading a page or so but only "reading" with my eyes instead of understanding what I read with my brain, and then having to go reread the whole page. With that being said, lately I've slowed down the pace at which I read and really focus on each and every word, which has helped me to read with my brain not just my eyes, if that makes sense.

I have noticed, the more I improve and optimize my overall health the better reader (and writer) I become, but I'm curious to know what fellow stackers do to improve their reading and to more optimize their reading experience? Any tips and / or suggestions?

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121 sats \ 1 reply \ @Atreus 24 Feb 2024
  1. Go easy on yourself. Your brain 🧠 is trained on zippy, shifting seas of cyber information. It's not an easy thing to remap it for focus.
  2. That's no excuse to be lazy. The brain isn't static, but very moldable, which you can use to your advantage in training it. Think of it like exercising flabby arm muscles at the gym. 🏋️ Everything is hard at first and gets easier with time.
  3. Replace some cyberspace time with meatspace time. It's fun here and all, but counterproductive when you're remapping. Have you considered using tools (screentime, cold turkey, whatever) to block out the internet for a time? Even a 3-day trip offline can do the job. The point isn't to never come back, but just to wean your mind off Dopamine Land the internet for a while.
  4. Take notes about what you read. 📖 Forgetting what you read isn't any different from never having read at all. Study a single book at a time, and chew your food like a cow 🐮 grazing on grass. This is why it's important to choose good books you can stay with for a while.

Protect your focus and your focus will protect you. 🫡

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60 sats \ 0 replies \ @cryotosensei 25 Feb 2024

To add on to point 4, think about what you can immediately apply from the book you’re reading. Quick application increases the value of what you’re reading and boosts your motivation.

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21 sats \ 1 reply \ @cryotosensei 25 Feb 2024

I do book reviews and post them on my IG n FB. Friends make me happy by saying how my reviews have helped them select a book. I post them here on ~booksandarticles to stack sats.

When I don’t have time for a book review, I just type the lines that strike a chord with me and post them as an article on SN. Case in point: #434939

Yes, I like to monetise my hobby haha. You could start do so by posting books you’re reading on “Weekend Book Recommendations”.

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0 sats \ 0 replies \ @BTCFC OP 26 Feb 2024

That's awesome! My gf actually just started a bookstagram / threads for books kind of thing since she's an avid reader and she mentioned that the book reading community is very warm and accepting, and open minded, similar to how the bitcoin community is.

Yes I have been journaling in addition to reading more frequently so I've noticed I'll retain more information and knowledge when I write notes, or even just talk about a book I'm reading to friends and family.

Being able to monetize your own hobby and passion is amazing my friend, I aim to do so as well!

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20 sats \ 0 replies \ @plebpoet 24 Feb 2024

to optimize reading experience: engage imagination.

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10 sats \ 0 replies \ @doofus 26 Feb 2024

Engaging in active reading strategies, such as identifying unfamiliar words and phrases, can significantly enhance your reading experience. By pausing to guess the meaning of new vocabulary and looking them up later, you're not only enhancing your comprehension but also improving your vocabulary.

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0 sats \ 0 replies \ @Tef 25 Feb 2024 outlawed

Here are a few suggestions to help optimize your reading experience:

  1. Create a reading schedule: Set aside dedicated time each day for reading. This will help you establish a reading routine and make it a regular habit.
  2. Choose a comfortable reading environment: Find a quiet and well-lit space where you can read without distractions. Make sure you have a comfortable chair and good lighting to reduce eye strain.
  3. Select the right book: Choose books that truly interest you. Whether it's fiction, non-fiction, self-help, or any other genre, reading material that captivates you will make the experience more enjoyable.
  4. Take notes: Jot down key points, quotes, or thoughts as you read. This can help you better understand and remember the content, and also allows for easy reference later on.
  5. Expand your reading genres: Don't limit yourself to just one type of book. Explore different genres and authors to broaden your reading experience and knowledge.
  6. Join a book club or reading group: Engaging in discussions with others can enhance your understanding of the book and provide different perspectives. It's also a great way to connect with fellow book lovers.
  7. Use technology to your advantage: Consider using e-readers or audiobooks for added convenience and accessibility. You can also utilize reading apps or tools that offer features like highlighting, dictionary look-up, and more.
  8. Practice active reading: Engage with the text by asking questions, making predictions, and summarizing key points. This will help improve comprehension and retention.