How to Get Out of a Reading Slump with the 10-Minute Rule

You’ve probably been there: you’re so exhausted that all you want to do is collapse into bed. And then that thought creeps in—“I didn’t read today either.”

The next day, the same thing happens. And the next. And when you finally open your book, you do it without enthusiasm, almost out of obligation. That’s when reading stops feeling magical.

We’ve been there too… until we discovered a simple trick that changed the way we read (and honestly, even how we live): the 10-Minute Rule.

What a Reading Slump Is

A reading slump is that moment when, no matter how hard you try, you just can’t bring yourself to read. You stare at your bookshelf full of unread books, and none of them appeal to you. You open one, read a few pages, and abandon it. You tell yourself, “I’ll read tomorrow,” but tomorrow never comes.

It doesn’t mean you’ve stopped being a reader. You just need a small push to reconnect with the stories you love. That’s where the 10-Minute Rule comes in.

The 10-Minute Rule: What It Is and How It Works

👉 It’s very simple:

• When you don’t feel like reading, set a 10-minute timer and open your book.
• If the timer goes off and you still don’t feel like reading, close the book without guilt.
• But here’s the secret: 99% of the time, you’ll turn off the timer… and keep reading.

Because the hard part isn’t reading. The hard part is starting.

A Trick That Goes Beyond Reading

✨ The best part? This method doesn’t just work for reading. It works for all those tasks you keep putting off:

• tidying up your space,
• studying,
• writing,
• going for a walk…

Try it for 10 minutes. If it doesn’t flow, stop. But most of the time, once you’ve started, you’ll want to keep going.

Why We’re Sharing This Trick with You

This little rule has saved us from so many nights of frustration. And we’re sharing it because we know what it feels like to love reading but not have the energy to open a book.

Sometimes you don’t need more motivation or a perfect plan. You just need 10 minutes to reconnect with what you love.

Make Your 10 Minutes Special ✨

Turn those minutes into your ritual: a cup of tea, your favorite blanket, warm light… and a little something that reminds you why reading makes you happy.

Turn Your Reading Time into a Sanctuary

At Espada de Valkiria, we create bookish accessories to make your reading ritual even more special—bookmarks, dust jackets, overlays, art prints, book sleeves, and mini daggers. Small pieces that transform your reading time into something truly meaningful.

Because reading isn’t just about turning pages. It’s about returning to yourself. 💛