Paperback's Pondering's: My Dreaded Reading Slump

Paperback's Pondering's is a weekly discussion when I take a topic and well, ponder about it! This week's topic is all about those dreaded slumps; some may last days, or even months!

It is an awkward situation that no bookworm wants to be in: when your mom tells you that she can't remember the last time she saw you pick up a book. I heard this from my own mother about a year ago, during my dreaded reading slump.

I've had this idea ever since I started this blog, that I always need to be reading a book because I need to keep reviews coming. However there is always that point when life kind of gets in the way and you start putting your priorities elsewhere. Now I have to admit, some of these priorities are more important such a studying for exams or preparing for your future, but what if the priority is just that you're not motivated?

I was in a huge reading slump about a year ago, when watching youtube videos took over my life and I was reaching towards my phone more than reaching towards a book. I just couldn't find a book I enjoyed because my mind was more focused on watching Zoella's new tutorial or watching Tyler Oakley's collabs. While I was enjoying these things, I couldn't help but wonder what happened to the Emily who would read book after book in elementary school. My parent's confronted me about it, and I realised that I needed a balance between my two hobbies.

Obviously everyone gets reading slumps for different reasons. My reason was that I had found another hobby, but others could say that they hadn't read anything really good lately, they're busy with school etc. This blog has kept me reading often now, which is great, but I can't help but wonder what would happen if I slipped back into a slump, but needed to put up reviews.

I think that the important thing for me, is to accept when I need to take a break, and to not force reading onto myself. It only makes it worse when you're dragging yourself through books that you have no interest in whatsoever. It's better to take time for yourself, and do other things that will make you happier.

Reading will always be my number one hobby, but that's not saying that it's not okay to have breaks once in a while. While it may be frustrating, it's better to sit back and relax, and it will all be over soon. And when all else fails, re-read Harry Potter. Harry Potter will always make you happy.

So I want to ask you now, how to you get rid of reading slumps? Do you accept the break, or do you pull through like a trooper? I'd love to know your tips and tricks :)

Emily @ Paperback Princess