Since most of us are still spending more time than ever at home, I thought it would be a good opportunity to share the 3 books I’m reading right now. You might be wondering how I can possibly read more than one book at a time but I’m sharing my daily and weekly reading habits and how I incorporate all three into my schedule.
Daily Devotional-Be Still
If you have been following me for awhile, you know I had a weekly devotional last year that I used for journaling purposes. The pacing of it was perfect because I could choose when I wanted to read the passage and take the time to write down some thoughts in my journal. The only drawback was I wanted something that I could read for a short time each morning to really get me in the right mindset for the day. When I stumbled across this one from my favorite blogger, Jen Reed from @thesisterstudioig, I immediately ordered it as it’s pretty safe to assume I like 95% of her recommendations.
I truly enjoy that I can take 5-10 minutes each morning and read the daily passage, the meaning behind it and end it with a prayer to start the day. I’ve been working on incorporating it into my routine each morning and it makes such a difference with just taking a moment of peace and time with God at the start of each day.
Self-Help/Motivational Reading-Didn’t See That Coming by Rachel Hollis
This book was a gift from my kids for Christmas and while I loved her other two books, I initially thought this one would not be relatable as I assumed it was about her recent divorce. It turns out that she had pretty much finished this book when her divorce was announced so there is only brief mention of it.
I also thought that you had to have this major life tragedy occur to be able to really follow along or feel like her words translated to my own life. I have been pleasantly surprised to find that each chapter has been a life lesson that I can take and apply in some way. I love that her books are easy to read and follow while leaving you feeling empowered and worthy when you are done. I fit a chapter in every few nights or over the weekend and it helps keep me on track.
Leisure Reading-I Know This Much is True by Wally Lamb
I just recently started this book after borrowing it from a friend of mine. I generally find it difficult to find or make time to get lost in a big book like this but I recently finished “Where the Crawdads Sing” and was looking to take on my next leisurely read. The beginning has been a little slow and dark but I feel like this is the case with many books or novels so I’m staying committed to see how it turns out.
I will admit that unless it is a real page turner, finding the time for the longer reading sessions like this can be more challenging. Couple that with the fact that I am not good at just sitting down in the middle of the day and relaxing and, let’s just say, it will likely take me months to get through this one. I generally will try to find time either in the evening or on a slower weekend to get in a chapter or two. Reading these fiction novels provides an escape that the daily devotional and self-help books don’t which is why I have an active reading list of 3 books right now.
So, do you typically stick to one book at a time or do you diversify your reading time? I’m always on the hunt for my next good motivational or fiction novel and would love to hear some good recommendations. Remember that whether it is taking the time to read, curl up with a great TV show or just unwind with a long bath, taking the time for self-care is so important to our mental health. Have a great week friends!