I've been trying for months to get back into reading, but after two pages I get distracted or get a headache. I used to read without any problem, but now it's frustrating because I'd really love to finish at least one novel before the end of the year. Does anyone else have this problem? What do you guys do to stay focused?
Start with shorter books or novels that really hook you, not something you "should" be reading! Try reading in 15-20 minute sessions, in a place without your phone nearby, and then take a break. If the headache keeps happening it could be eye strain or something more serious, so don't overthink it - talk to someone about it.
Your brain is struggling to readjust to long reading sessions because you probably spent months consuming fast-paced content - social media, videos, that kind of thing. It's normal and it gets better, but it requires retraining your focus gradually. Don't try to start with 400-page novels; begin with more fast-paced genres or short books. Read short chapters, long articles, even comics if you like them. The point is getting your mind used to focusing on a single text without jumping around.
The headache thing is important: it could be eye strain or just tension from pushing yourself. Try reading in a well-lit place, at a comfortable distance, and take breaks every 10-15 minutes without feeling guilty. You don't need to read for hours to make progress. If you read 20 minutes a day consistently, you'll finish a normal novel in three months. It also helps to pick something that actually excites you - if the plot doesn't grab your attention, your focus goes out the window. Maybe try switching genres or look for recommendations for something that hooks you fast, so the first chapters grab you and everything flows better after that.
Don't try to force yourself to read for hours or jump straight to longer sessions thinking willpower will fix it, because all you'll do is associate reading with frustration and headaches. Also don't ignore if something's changed in your routine (more screen time, less sleep, stress) because that really affects your ability to concentrate.
What works better is to actually start small: 10-15 minutes in a distraction-free space, phone nowhere near you, no background noise if that's an issue for you. Some people find it helpful to read on paper instead of a screen if your head hurts, or to change the lighting. Try reading at a time of day when you normally have more energy (most people do better in the morning than at night when you're already tired). If the book you're reading bores you, switch to a different one without guilt; sometimes the problem is that specific book, not your concentration skills.
Increase the time gradually, maybe 5 minutes more each week, but without pressure. If you notice headaches sticking around for a while after reading, it might be worth looking into other things (eyesight, posture, how much screen time you're getting in general). And be realistic about your timeline: finishing a novel before the end of the year is fine, but it's not a race. The point is to get back into the habit without it becoming a constant battle with yourself.
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