Cozy Up and Get Back to Reading: A Black Woman’s Guide to Overcoming a Reading Slump

Let’s talk about reading slumps. As the leaves start to change and the temperatures drop, there's nothing quite like picking up a good book during the fall season. But what happens when you find yourself in the dreaded reading slump? Fear not, because I’ve got your back! In this blog, I’m going to share some tips and tricks specifically tailored for black women to help you get out of that reading rut and fall back in love with your books.

 

1. Reconnect with Your Reading Nook

One of the best things about fall is the cozy atmosphere it brings. So, why not make the most of it? Start by reviving your reading nook or creating a new one. Arrange some soft pillows and blankets, add some warm, soft lighting (think dim lights or scented candles), and make it your sanctuary for reading. Having a dedicated and inviting space will make you want to pick up that book again.

 

2. Set Realistic Goals

Don’t let these Booktok trends fool you - reading slowly is still a vibe. Sometimes, the pressure of finishing a book quickly can lead to a reading slump. Instead, set realistic reading goals for yourself. It could be a chapter a day or even just ten pages before bed. Setting achievable targets takes away the stress and allows you to enjoy the process of reading without rushing through it.

 

3. Mix Up Your Genres

You all know I love a good urban or contemporary romance, but there’s nothing wrong with a switch-up from time to time. If you've been stuck in a reading slump, it might be because you've been reading the same type of books over and over. Fall is a great time to explore new genres that you might not have considered before. How about trying a mystery or a historical romance novel? Changing things up can rekindle your excitement for reading.

 

4. Join or Stay Active in Bookclubs

Let this Fall season encourage you to find your community. Joining a book club that focuses on picking reads for you can take the pressure off needing to pick books for yourself. There’s nothing more exciting than sitting down and sharing your thoughts on a book in a safe space with other black women. The Literally Black Book Club stays on top of all things Black authors, so you’ll always feel represented in the stories along with our community.

 

5. Reread an Old Favorite

Sometimes, the best way to break a reading slump is to revisit an old favorite. Fall is a great time to dive back into a beloved book, perhaps one that reminds you of the good ole days or even special moments from your childhood. The familiarity of a cherished story can reignite your passion for reading.

 

6. Take Advantage of Audiobooks

If you're finding it hard to concentrate on printed text, why not switch to audiobooks? They are a fantastic way to enjoy stories while multitasking or relaxing. You can listen to audiobooks while driving to work, sipping on that pumpkin spice latte, or even while you’re taking care of the home. Audiobooks offer a convenient and engaging way to get back into the reading groove.

 

7. Create a Fall Reading List

Stay on that TBR! Include books that feature autumn settings, harvest festivals, or spooky themes. Having a themed reading list can make reading feel more seasonal and enjoyable. Make a list of books you'd like to read and don’t be afraid to keep adding to the list for the rest of the year!

 

8. Limit Screen Time

I get it – the temptation of Netflix and doom scrolling on the Gram can be hard to resist, especially as the days get shorter. However, if you want to get out of your reading slump, consider setting a daily or weekly screen time limit. Redirect that time toward reading instead. The less time you spend in front of screens, the more you'll find yourself reaching for a book.

 

9. Be Patient with Yourself

Finally, remember to be patient with yourself. I promise you aren’t the only person going through and you won’t be the last person to get hit with it; just like your mental health, you have to take it easy. Fall is a season of change, so embrace it and give yourself the time and space to fall back in love with reading at your own pace.

So there you have it, my top tips for conquering a reading slump during the beautiful autumn season. Embrace the coziness, set achievable goals, and explore new genres to find your reading groove again. Before you know it, you'll be lost in the pages of a captivating book, wrapped in your favorite blanket, and sipping a warm beverage as you enjoy the crisp fall air. Happy reading, queens!

 

If you’re ready to join the book club, we’re ready to have you - click the link below to join today!

https://bookclubs.com/clubs/5970370/join/74aba4