Tell me why I should be a reader (and how to become one)

[Wantobeareader]

Name changed for this as I am a bit ashamed.
Used to read fairly regularly in my 20s but “thanks” to internet, social media, having DC and being generally quite tired at night, I fell off the habit.
I have read 4 or 5 books over the past 10 years, which is quite shameful, I know.
Truth is, I have always found reading fairly enjoyable but it isn’t a passion of mine and I sometimes struggle to really get into a book and often find myself reading a few pages ans abandoning them.
I suppose I don’t fully see the point of it anymore but would love to build the habit. I feel like I need concrete reasons to persuade me to read more, can you list a few and convince me, please? 😃
How does one become an avid reader? Can you become one in your 40s?

@Fraudornot ”. The more I read the more articulate I become I think and also the more my brain seems to be motivated to make new connections and ideas.”
Love this. I kind of hope I can become smarter if I start reading again😅

Love reading I can easily do a book a day on my kindle. Others in my family do it because they have to when needed. We are all different

It sounds like you're in the habit of relaxing with your phone in your hand, so maybe try downloading the Kindle app or similar and reading on your phone. The reading experience is not quite as nice, but it's very accessible and a familiar format so an easier habit to pick up.

Many libraries allow you to borrow ebooks or there are loads of free books on Kindle, so you could test lots of different genres to see which ones work for you.

You don't have to have a 'passion' for reading as a thing, you just need to find a book, or books, that really grab you. If you are giving up after a few pages, you're not choosing the right books for you! Don't see it as a noble pursuit or a way of bettering yourself- that's counter-productive, because it makes it feel dry and boring.

Don't choose a book because it sounds worthy or intellectual. Start with one that sounds fun, exciting, scary, or whatever really appeals. If you secretly think that fluffy chick-lit might be your way into getting a reading habit, start there. Once you're in the habit of doing it, you can branch out a bit!

I think you have outlined very valid reasons for trying to make reading a habit again. I suggest committing to 30 minutes a day (or 2 x 15 minutes) but not in bed! Give yourself a real chance to get into a book when you are not tired. Push through any boredom and restlessness. It will be worth it!