Have a Free Minute?
Ever buy a book, fully intending to read it, only to watch it gather dust while you rewatch [whatever is in your rotation nowadays]?
No? Okay, let’s pretend you know what I’m trying to get at.
Reading is easy as an idea, but how to actually read as an activity? Unless you’re already a devoted reader, sitting down with a book for 30 minutes doesn’t quite have the same appeal as letting Netflix autoplay you into the next episode.
So, let’s start very, very small: Read for one minute or one page (choose your own adventure — whatever is more bearable to you).
When and Where Can You Read?
Now that we’ve got the “how small” down, let’s talk about the “when” and “where.”
Here’s the secret: fit your reading into the time you’re already waiting. If you live in Los Angeles (like me) or any big city, you know the power of a good line or delay. Waiting is everywhere — it’s a lifestyle.
Let me get you started with a few ideas in case you’re not sure if you’ve ever been kept waiting before:
Commuting — Make sure you’re the passenger. 😊
Restroom line at just about any event — Encore to follow; see next bullet.
On the toilet — I suspect there will be times when you can read more than a page. I believe in you. 💩
Airport — I highly recommend flying out of LAX if you’re keen on finishing a book.
Amusement park — See comment about airport.
Blackout — The electrical kind, of course.
Trying to fall asleep — Er, I’m on the fence about this one. You might not want to train yourself into equating reading with falling asleep, so maybe pick something you don’t mind not remembering (personally, I chose 21st Century Monetary Policy by Ben Bernanke).
Anything involving your habitually late friend — I’m sorry, consider the book is your friend until your friend shows up.
But Wait, There’s More Than Just Books!
If you’re not feeling a book, that’s okay. Substitute with a podcast, an article your smarty-pants friend sent you, or even an audiobook if you prefer listening.
Why It Matters
Reading in these little pockets of time helps you:
Build a consistent reading habit.
Use waiting time in a way that feels productive.
Reduce mindless scrolling or zoning out.
Small moments add up. One page or one minute might not seem like much, but over time, those snippets could mean finishing books you’d otherwise leave gathering dust.
My Challenge to You
Next time you’re waiting — whether in line, on a commute, or for your perpetually late friend — pull out your book and read for one minute. Start today, and see how many books you can finish in the time you’re already spending doing nothing.
Tried these tips? Share your results with me at info@claritycoachsandy.com — I’d love to hear how it went!
