If you’re looking for something to do instead of mindlessly scrolling, here’s a simple suggestion: visit your local library.
Reading is one of the best hobbies you can pick up to break the cycle of doomscrolling. It’s calm, quiet, and helps your brain slow down. If you're already reading this blog, you clearly know how to read—but let’s talk about how to turn reading into a fulfilling, sustainable habit. These tips will help you get the most out of your time with a book.

How to Find Books You’ll Actually Want to Read

The first step is figuring out what kinds of books you’re drawn to. It doesn’t matter if it’s nonfiction, romance, or fantasy—what matters is that you enjoy it. If it’s been a while since you last read for fun, here are a few questions to guide you:

What are your favorite TV shows or movies? What genre do they fall into?
What’s the last book you really enjoyed?
Are you interested in learning about something specific right now?

Once you have a general idea of what you like, browse Goodreads or your library’s website. These platforms often have curated lists by genre, mood, or topic. And if you start rating books you’ve read, Goodreads will start recommending similar ones based on your preferences.

Make Reading More Engaging With Annotations

In school, annotating books may have felt like a chore—but now, it’s one of my favorite ways to stay focused while reading.

You don’t need to write in the margins if you’re reading library books. Just keep a notebook nearby to jot down:

Quotes that stick with you
Thoughts or reactions you have while reading
Notes on things you want to revisit later

If you’re reading nonfiction, this is especially helpful for tracking useful tips, action steps, or resources the author mentions that you want to check out later. And for fiction, it can help you follow characters and plot twists more closely. It’s also a nice way to revisit the book later without having to re-read the whole thing.

Create a Cozy Reading Routine

One of the nicest things about reading is how flexible and relaxing it can be. It’s a hobby that fits into quiet afternoons and slow mornings, rainy evenings or sunny park days.

Here are a few simple ways to make reading feel like something to look forward to:

Find a comfy spot on the couch or bed
Make a warm drink or light a candle
Bring a book with you to a local coffee shop or on a walk to the park

Reading doesn’t need to be a big event. Even 10–15 minutes of reading instead of scrolling before bed can make a real difference in how you feel.

A Simple Way to Be More Present

If you’re trying to be more intentional with your time, reading is a great place to start. It offers a meaningful break from screens, helps you focus, and gives your mind space to slow down. You don’t need to read a certain number of books or stick to one type of genre—just choose what feels interesting and enjoyable to you.

And remember, you don’t have to finish every book you start. Let reading be something that adds to your life, not another task on your to-do list.

Below are my Amazon favorites to get started with reading!

*This post contains affiliate links so we may receive compensation if you purchase products linked to below. As an Amazon Associate, I can earn from qualifying purchases.