When you’re trying to fit in some reading but your eyes are tired or you’re just too busy, here’s a simple trick: listen to audiobooks. It’s a great way to “read” without actually reading.
For instance, if you commute, pop in some earbuds and let an audiobook entertain or educate you during the drive. Or, if you’re at the gym, why not let a story or a lecture keep you company while you lift?
The beauty of audiobooks is their flexibility. They can turn dead time into productive time. You can listen while cooking, cleaning, or even taking a walk.
Here are a couple of tips to make the most of your listening:
- Speed it up: Most audiobook apps let you increase the playback speed. Experiment to find a pace that’s fast but still comfortable for comprehension. Many people can handle 1.25x or even 1.5x speed without losing the thread of the story.
- Sample first: Not all narrators are created equal. Listening to a sample can save you from a bad match. A good narrator can make even the driest material engaging.
- Keep it accessible: Download audiobooks to your device so you’re not dependent on internet connectivity. This way, you can listen anywhere, anytime.
Remember, the goal is to make reading a part of your daily routine without adding to your visual workload. Audiobooks aren’t just for the commute; they’re for any moment you can spare an ear.
So, next time you think you don’t have time to read, think again. You might just have time to listen.
Note: Learn more tips like this in The Business of Personal Training: 20 Principles to Success.
