One of the benefits of the 75 Hard Challenge that I have set myself is that it has re-lit the reading fire for me…

The “reading for 15 minutes daily” challenge has given me permission to carve out some time in my day to read. Because lately I was finding it hard to do that. Not sure if I really didn’t have that time, or more likely, I was just spending more time on my phone and squeezing out the time to read a book…yes, we are all the sad screen zombies these days- aren’t we?!

And that is why this reading thing is doing me wonders. Because I am making myself pull out the book, I am actually finding it hard to put it down easily. And I’m pulling it very often throughout my day as and when there’s a moment of quiet.

This is exhilarating for me! I have been reminded how much I love reading. Giving myself permission to read without guilt has made my days better. I could keep going. 

I have my bookclub meeting on Friday, and I only started reading the book for it (A Quality of Time- Richard Wagamese) over the weekend. With over 300 pages, I was doubtful whether I would finish it on time. But the beauty of a fast moving well written engaging story is that I am getting through it fast! I have less than 40 pages to go. And having tonight without my husband around (he has an evening engagement) means I may be able to finish my book today? We will see! 

I have found out that I would rather be reading a good book than doomscrolling. I think this would be a normal feeling for anyone if they give themselves this chance. The problem is that our smartphones are so very powerful and addictive that it’s hard to stay away. I have to keep reminding myself to pick up the book instead. And when I do pick up the book (no ebooks- only paper) I am much happier and content about it.

This is one of the challenges of my 75 Hard that I hope to keep going for life…and starting it feels like a gift for me- not a challenge at all!

Let the pages keep flipping…