How to read a book even though you're Busy

"Dear Busy Girls Guide. I totally love reading - it's one of my favourite things. But at the moment, I seem to have about 7 books on the go & no time to actually sit down & finish them. Please can you give me some tips as to how to make time to read my books in my Busy life?" Shirley, Manchester City Centre

Dear Shirley,

A long time ago someone said to me that 'readers are leaders' meaning that the more you read, the more knowledge you collect & you know what they say about knowledge - it truly is power. The only problem with reading is that it takes total concentration. You may be able to multi-task your way through a conversation with a friend, filling the washing machine & doing the dinner. But I bet you can't do anything else whilst reading except maybe have a bath!?

So, I was delighted to get your question, as it really made me think. In true Busy Girls Guide style, I decided to do a bit of research & bring you some answers to reading on the go - hope this helps...

1. Buy a downloadable audio version of a book.

Why Because it's usually the cheapest option, available in minutes so you can listen to it just about anywhere.
How Many public library systems now allow their cardholders to download electronic audio books to personal MP3 players Manchester Library or List of Chester Libraries
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2. Buy a pocket version of a book or an idiot's guide

These are cheap, small and can fit in your purse or back pocket so you can carry the reading material with you wherever you go. Idiot's Guides are relatively cheap & good fun for an overview

3. Read while working out at the gym.

The cross trainer, stationary bike & treadmill all accomodate book reading & most gyms have a book holder on the machine. Talk about multi-=tasking - you'll get smarter & fitter simultaneously & you'll take your mind of the exercise.

Quick tip Keep a bookmark handy so you won't reread the same thing over again or waste time finding your page.

Take it on a trip

If you're ever unfortunate enough to be using public transport - given the continual delays & setbacks - it's always a good idea to take a good book with you.

4. Great excuse for a bigger new bag...

Buy a bag big enough for a book!

5. Listen to books on tape or CD in the car.

I love listening to business CDs in the car & flick between those & some music, so I really feel like I've learnt something, rather than just wasted an hour or so in traffic.

6. Dump it

If you don't like what you are reading & it's not necessary reading, read something else. There's no law that says you can't abandon a book just because you don't like it.

Hope this helps Shirley - we've also decided to leave a couple of books in the kitchen, as you never know when you can grab a coffee & a quick chapter when noone's demanding your attention!

Do let us know how you get on, Busy Girls Feedback

Love from The Busy Girls Team x

Busy Girls Guide
Manchester & Cheshire

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