How to Be a Better Reader (and Maybe Even a Better Person)

Reading is supposed to make us smarter, kinder, and maybe even a bit more interesting. But it’s not as simple as just plowing through any book we come across. It’s how we read that counts. Here are 13 strategies given by Ryan Holiday and I want to add upon them, simplified into a few key tips—and maybe with a bit more fun thrown in.

1. Quality Over Quantity (Skip the Speed Reading)

You know those folks who speed-read through a book every other day? Impressive… maybe. But if you’re racing through books and don’t remember a thing, did it really happen? It’s like fast food: sure, you could eat 50 burgers in a month, but wouldn’t you rather slowly savor one incredible meal? Treat each book as a chance to really dig in and enjoy. Quality beats quantity every time.

2. Drop the Boring Books (Guilt-Free)

Here’s a rule of thumb: 100 minus your age. If a book hasn’t hooked you by then, let it go. We don’t force ourselves to sit through boring movies, so why slog through a dull book? It’s like Marie Kondo said: if it doesn’t spark joy, put it back on the shelf. Free yourself up for the books that actually bring something to your life.

3. Read Like a Spy (Yes, the Sneaky Kind)

Sometimes, reading outside your usual interests or even picking up something you disagree with can teach you more than sticking to familiar ground. Think of it as a “spy mission” into a new perspective. You might not agree with everything, but reading like this sharpens your own thinking—and you might even find a gem or two.

4. Keep a Commonplace Book (A Fancy Term for “Best Quotes List”)

A “commonplace book” is just a fancy way of saying “save the good stuff.” Keep a notebook or document of quotes and ideas that resonate. Think of it as your “greatest hits” list that you can flip through anytime you need inspiration. Whether it’s a nugget from Marcus Aurelius or a line from Harry Potter, if it speaks to you, it belongs.

5. Don’t Ignore Fiction (Yes, It’s Real Reading)

For anyone who thinks nonfiction is the only “serious” reading, here’s a little nudge to give fiction its due. Fiction helps us dive into empathy, emotion, and the messiness of life in ways nonfiction often can’t. Even Marcus Aurelius quoted Greek plays! So if you need a break from the self-help aisle, grab a novel; it’s brain food, too.

6. Wisdom Over Facts (We’re Not Playing Trivia)

We’re not reading just to collect random facts—this isn’t a trivia game. We read for wisdom that can actually change how we see the world. Next time you pick up a book, look for ideas that can shape your actions or perspective, not just things you’ll forget by next week. This is where reading gets truly valuable.

7. Revisit the Classics (They’re Classics for a Reason)

Re-reading classic books as we age is like visiting an old friend who somehow always has something new to say. The words didn’t change, but you did, and what you find in the book changes with you. Plus, it makes for great cocktail conversation. So don’t be afraid to pick up Meditations again; they’ll meet you wherever you are.

Reading isn’t just about checking off titles; it’s about taking what we read and letting it change us. Read slowly, make it count, and remember—if you’re not enjoying it, you’re missing the point. Happy reading!