How To Stop Buying Books And Start Reading - Overcoming Tsundoku

Summary

In this engaging episode of 'Dairy Free Free Reading Advice,' the host tackles the challenge of sindoku—collecting books without reading them. They highlight the distinction between acquiring books and the actual reading experience, emphasizing that modern bookstores are designed to encourage purchases rather than genuine engagement. The host offers three practical tips: read a portion of books in-store to gauge interest, establish a manageable reading routine, and resist tracking reading progress to maintain the joy of reading. Ultimately, the message is clear: prioritize enjoyment over quantity in your reading journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Distinguish between acquiring books and actually reading them; they are different experiences.
• 📚 The book market today is commercialized, leading to consumerist behaviors that can lead to a pile-up of unread books.
• 🛍️ When entering a bookstore, be aware of the design aimed at encouraging purchases, not just reading.
• 📖 Before buying, take time to read a portion of the book in-store to gauge your interest.
• ⏳ Establish a regular reading routine to ease into the habit, focusing on consistency rather than volume.
• 🚫 Avoid tracking your reading progress with artificial goals, as it can detract from the enjoyment of reading.
• 👍 Reading should be a personal experience; focus on whether you enjoy the material rather than how many books you finish.
• 🤔 Reflect on whether reading is fulfilling for you, and prioritize enjoyment over completing a checklist.
• 📝 Consider keeping personal notes or reflections on the books you read instead of just collecting them.
• 💡 Life is too short to read books you don't enjoy; prioritize quality reading experiences.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The video discusses the concept of 'sindoku,' which refers to acquiring books but not reading them, and offers tips on how to overcome this tendency.

What does the term 'sindoku' mean?

'Sindoku' is defined as the condition of acquiring reading materials and letting them pile up at home without reading them.

How has the book industry changed from historical times to now?

Historically, books were expensive and elitist, requiring significant investment to purchase. In contrast, modern bookstores offer a variety of affordable options, making books more accessible.

What distinction does the speaker make between acquiring books and reading them?

The speaker emphasizes that acquiring books is a commercial activity, while reading is a personal experience, and the two should not be conflated.

What is the first tip provided to combat the sindoku tendency?

The first tip is to read sections of books in the bookstore before deciding to buy them, to differentiate between the thrill of purchasing and the actual reading experience.

What does the speaker suggest about setting up a reading routine?

The speaker suggests establishing a manageable reading routine, emphasizing that reading should be about consistency rather than quantity.

Why does the speaker advise against tracking reading progress?

The speaker believes that tracking reading can detract from the enjoyment of reading itself and lead to focusing on artificial goals rather than the actual experience.

What is the suggested approach to evaluating whether to continue reading a book?

Readers should ask themselves if they are enjoying the book. If not, they should feel free to stop reading it.

What role does the app 'Fabulous' play in the speaker's routine?

The 'Fabulous' app helps the speaker establish habits and routines, including reading, by providing motivation and behavioral change programs.

What is the underlying message about the value of reading?

The speaker conveys that reading should be a pleasurable and enriching experience, not just a checklist of completed books.