Section 1.1: Understanding the Framing Effect

Consider the following scenario: which disinfectant would you choose—Disinfectant A, claiming to eliminate 99.9% of germs, or Disinfectant B, stating that "Only 0.1% of germs survive!"? Most would opt for Disinfectant A.

Despite both having the same efficacy, the appeal lies in the method of presentation. Disinfectant A utilizes positive framing (highlighting germs eliminated), while Disinfectant B resorts to negative framing (focusing on germs that remain).

This phenomenon is influenced by cognitive biases like loss aversion—we instinctively aim to avoid perceived losses, such as allowing a fraction of germs to linger. Additionally, we often use an affective heuristic, where our decisions are swayed by the emotions certain choices evoke. It's undoubtedly more comforting to think of eliminating 99.9% of germs than to dwell on the 0.1% that remains.

Section 1.2: Reframing Your Reading Experience

If you're finding it challenging to read more, ask yourself: do you perceive reading as that 0.1% of germs that persist? Are you framing it as a negative experience?

For instance, thoughts like "I could be watching Netflix instead of reading," or "This book is dull, but I need to get through it," can create a negative association with reading. If that's the case, it's no wonder reading feels like a chore.

I used to check out books I felt obligated to read, turning the experience into a burden. However, once I began to reframe reading as a pleasurable gain, it became as appealing as binge-watching my favorite series.

Section 2.1: Switch Up Genres

Sometimes, a negative perception of reading arises simply from the genre you're engaging with. For example, I find non-fiction and classic literature often take me longer to finish. In June, I decided to explore a genre I had previously dismissed as "less valuable"—romance. The result? I devoured three romance novels in just three days! This shift not only reignited my motivation but also helped me complete a non-fiction book I had been stuck on.

Section 2.2: Transform Reading into a Reward

Reframe reading from a task to a treat. Think of it as self-care or personal time. Brew your favorite beverage, cozy up in a beloved nook, and perhaps light some candles to create a delightful atmosphere.

Section 2.3: Engage with a Reading Community

Joining reading communities has been invaluable on my journey this year. Engaging with others to discuss books, seek recommendations, and hold each other accountable makes the reading experience far less solitary. Two communities I recommend are:

• r/52book: A group dedicated to the challenge of reading 52 books in a year, where members share progress and current reads.
• r/suggestmeabook: A great resource for discovering new reading material.

Remember, the focus should be on the positive aspects rather than perceived losses.

Section 2.4: Monetize Your Reading Habit

What if you could earn money by reading? Inspired by this concept, think about how much more appealing reading would be if it came with financial incentives—like getting paid to watch Netflix!

For me, writing about books serves as motivation to read more widely. It creates a positive feedback loop: as I read more, my writing improves, leading to better earnings and further encouraging my reading habit.