The Bookworm’s Alchemy: One Simple Reading Tip for Busy Parents

Impossible Time Management in a Hectic Schedule

Many podcasts and articles emphasize the importance of reducing screen time for overall well-being, often recommending reading as a healthier alternative. However, for many parents, finding the time to sit down with a book can be a challenge.

With responsibilities piling up and the constant demands of parenting, it can feel nearly impossible to squeeze in some quality reading time. However, there's a simple solution that can help you reconnect with your books without overwhelming your schedule.

Replace Screen Time with Satisfaction

As busy parents, screens often seem like the only option for multi-tasking—allowing us to entertain ourselves while eating or conversing with our children. But what if you could transform that screen time into moments spent with a good book?

Recently, I faced a stack of books I should finish before a trip to Japan. To tackle this challenge, I decided to replace screen time during meals with reading. The change proved effective as I found myself engrossed in my reading materials while eating. The key is to select easy meals that allow for a smoother reading experience. A simple sandwich or a wrap can make it easy to hold a book in one hand while savoring a bite with the other.

Reflecting on My Heartache

Reflecting back to my high school days, I remember the pressure of preparing for university entrance exams. During lunch breaks, I was always found buried in my textbooks, driven by the need to excel. One of my classmates, whose nickname was Tomato, once asked me ‘Put down your study materials and enjoy the meal like everyone else’. But as a determined student, I ignored her advice and kept studying. Looking back, I feel a little heartache. Studying during meals was understandable back then, especially when I was desperate to succeed. But now, as a responsible parent, things are different.

Choose moments when you are alone, and select lighter contents that engages without requiring extensive focus. It’s all about nurturing that relationship with books amidst a busy life.

So next time you find yourself reaching for your phone or tablet during a meal, consider picking up a book instead. You might be surprised how easily your stack of 'to-read' books diminishes, allowing you not just to stay connected with creative excitement but also to enrich your life.