One of my most valuable life rules is to always take a book—which has served me well 99% of the time. (Exceptions: I learned the hard way that walking down a city street while reading isn't the best idea, and that clutching a book while treading water is both exhausting and stressful.) This philosophy is one of my favorite ways to squeeze in one more chapter in all kinds of settings.

I love to read because it’s an effective and entertaining way to quiet my always-busy brain. And reading is linked to a variety of health benefits: Research suggests devouring books helps keep the mind sharper for longer, while lowering heart rate and feelings of psychological distress. It also promotes empathy and helps develop critical-thinking skills.

I asked a few experts to share their favorite strategies to read more books in 2023. Among my favorite tips:

• Try different formats. For years, I stubbornly refused to read anything other than a book I could hold in my hands. Then I discovered the convenience of the Kindle, and there's no going back. Who knows? Maybe I'll start turning on audiobooks every time I'm in the car.
• Join a reading challenge. These consist of prompts like read an anthology, find an author who’s new to you, or try a book that includes a map. You'll broaden your reading horizons and benefit from some built-in motivation.
• Read multiple books at a time. Podcaster Anne Bogel told me that she's always in the middle of about five books: a mix of print, audiobooks, and e-books, as well as nonfiction and fiction titles. That helps ensure she can always find something she's in the mood for in any setting. I'm following her advice, and now my weekend is booked.

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