Jaran Flaath

One of the keys to reading more is, unsurprisingly, having access to books. That means I should make it a habit to bring a book with me wherever I go.

I go to great lengths to ensure I always have my phone with me — fully charged and ready to use. What if, in the service of combating brain rot, I invested as much time and energy into making it a habit to always carry a book?

If I’m reading the latest Stormlight Archive installment by Brandon Sanderson, lugging that brick around might not be practical. However, I have plenty of thinner, shorter books on my shelf just waiting for me to dive into. Carrying one of these along would ensure I always have something of genuine value to immerse myself in. It would serve as both a defense against brain rot and a means to help me read more.

I should find an “on-the-go” book and work to establish the habit of always bringing it with me when I leave the house — even if it’s just a quick errand to the store. I know I’m likely to pull out my phone several times on that same short trip, so I definitely have time to read a paragraph or two instead.

The One Page a Day challenge is a great way to encourage myself to read more without triggering guilt when I fail to meet bigger goals, like reading 10 pages or finishing a chapter. That single page often turns into two, three, or even twenty—and sets me on the right path toward more consistent reading, even when my days feel overwhelming.

With a book always by my side, I’ll have a little escape, even if it’s just for a minute while waiting to pick up the kids, riding the tram, or before starting the drive home from work.