Get them Reading More

As far as new year’s resolutions go reading more and better material is probably up there, but like most resolutions, come February the enthusiasm fades.

Reading does require effort and there are some strategies that can help people to get back in the habit of interacting with books instead of rubbish on the net.

New research from Monash University and book industry initiative Australia Reads aims to help the 49.8 per cent of non-readers, and 54.9 per cent of those who have read in the past year, who want to read more.

A survey of 1622 Australians aged over 16 years found only half of respondents regularly participate in reading as a recreational activity, compared with more than 80 per cent who watch movies and TV.

Of those who do read, only 17 per cent list it as the hobby they dedicate the most time to.

Behavioural scientists at Monash’s BehaviourWorks Australia have determined the best ways to overcome the barriers keeping people from reading.

Examining the attitudes, motivation and capability of readers, the research identified six types of readers, ranging from people who read voraciously to those who rarely or never read, who each face distinct challenges.

There are ‘Avid readers’ (22.4 per cent of Australians) read very frequently and experience no barriers to reading, ‘Engaged readers’ (30.6 per cent) read regularly. They want to read more but struggle with distractions.

‘Ambivalent readers’ (14.8 per cent) reading frequently varies substantially. They are not sure if they want to prioritise reading over other leisure activities.

‘Aspirational readers’ (14.7 per cent) read infrequently but want to read more. They struggle with motivation, distractions and having time.

‘Lapsed readers’ (7.1 per cent) used to read more but haven’t read in the past 12 months. They want to read more but struggle with time and finding books.

‘Uninterested non-readers’ (10.4 per cent) don’t read and lack interest in reading. They have low motivation and lack time.

Lead researcher Dr Breanna Wright, Monash BehaviourWorks Senior Research Fellow, said the decision to pick up a book and read might sound simple, but is the result of a complex sequence of behaviours.

“Many people lack time or struggle with distractions, but strategies such as setting reading goals, keeping books in visible places, and seeking out shorter books can help,” Dr Wright said.

Overcoming Common Reading Challenges
Reading not your go-to leisure activity but you want to do it more in 2025?
Focus on the enjoyment and benefits that come with reading, and try setting reading goals. Make reading social by joining or starting a book club.

Not feeling in the mood to read?
There is a book for every mood! Find material that feels engaging in the moment, even if it means starting a new book or trying a different genre.

Do you lack time to read and struggle with distractions?
Try shorter material or audiobooks to reduce the perceived effort of reading. Place books in visible places or set reminders to read. Try setting up a regular reading time, such as before bed or on public transport.

Not sure what you like to read?
Try shorter, more accessible books and promotions such as book subscriptions or curation services. Try asking a librarian or bookseller for recommendations.

Image by Ekaterina Bolovtsova