Reading is a wonderful escape for me, but distractions can be so annoying that I stop enjoying my book, or end up reading the same passage over and over. Whether it’s the chatter of fellow passengers on a train or the constant scrolling videos from the hubbs phone ( or that he always feel that the perfect time to talk to me is in the middle of a big fight scene!), staying focused can be challenging. I’ve gone digging for some suggestions to see just how other people manage it!
Laugh them off
Suggestion: If your partner is gaming or scrolling through Facebook, make a game out of it. Count how many times they click or scroll in a minute.
This would just make me more angry! It feels like it would just highlight the problem for me.
Create a Reading Nook
Suggestion: Transform a corner of your home into a cozy reading nook. Fill it with comfy cushions, a soft blanket, and good lighting. This dedicated space can help signal to your brain that it’s time to focus on reading.
This sounds like the dream, except it would need a lock on the door to stop anyone walking in and talking to me, ideal yes but not realistic.
3. Use Headphones or Loop Earplugs
Suggestion: When the noise around you becomes too much, headphones and loop earplugs can be lifesavers.
Headphones
- Noise Cancellation: Perfect for blocking out the sound of people talking on a train or your partner’s gaming noises.
- Music and White Noise: You can listen to your favorite tunes or calming white noise to help you concentrate.
- Comfort: Many headphones are designed for long-term comfort, so you can wear them for hours.
I ve tried this, but its about remembering to have the headphones (or earphones) charged is a challenge, and in public is can mean missing announcements or just feels like a bit of a risk.
Loop Earplugs
Before we get into this. I love my Loops, for concerts, spots event etc. I think they are amazing.
- Noise Reduction: They reduce background noise without completely blocking it, so you can still hear important sounds.
- Comfort: Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear.
- Affordability: Generally more budget-friendly than noise-canceling headphones.
Loops, or just earplugs can be a great option. I think it depends on what ones you have though. My loops are made to block out certain sounds so whilst they dull the background noise I find sometimes it feels like voices are clearer so I end up listening more rather than less. Right now Im considering upgrading mine to see if that helps!
Communicate with the person distracting you
If someones gaming or social media scrolling is distracting, have a friendly chat. Maybe you can agree on quiet times or find a compromise that works for both of you.
Great in theory. Having tried this it just doesnt work for me. I ve tried saying Im going to read, tried looking annoyed, and finding ways to say please leave me alone but it never seems to work. I will admit I havent tried asking the noisy people on the train to be quiet so I can read in peace.
So, what have I learnt? there is no magic switch to flip to enjoy a book in peace. Going to sit in a library just isnt practical. Choosing the quiet coach on a train is my best option but when Im at home I guess its a case of hoping for the best!
One More Chapter 