Why Morning Might Be the Best Time to Read
When is the best time to read? The answer depends on your lifestyle, energy levels, and personal preferences.
Some people love starting their day with a book. Others prefer an afternoon break or to wind down in the evening with reading.
This three-part series explores the benefits of reading at different times— morning, afternoon, and evening. Each post highlights the pros and cons of each reading routine.
If you're trying to develop a consistent reading habit, this series will help you find the best time to read.
Why Morning Might Be the Best Time to Read
Mornings shape the rest of the day, which is why many people tackle important tasks first—before distractions set in.
Morning reading can be part of that. Whether you want to learn, ease into the day, or enjoy a quiet moment before the world wakes, it offers plenty of benefits. It’s certainly better than scrolling Facebook.
It’s also when your brain is at its sharpest. A well-rested mind absorbs information better, making it an excellent time for nonfiction, personal development, or any book that requires focus.
And then there’s the quiet. The world hasn’t fully woken up yet, demanding your attention. It’s just you and your book. Add a warm drink (coffee is my preference) and you have a simple ritual that sets a positive tone for your day.
The Advantages of a Morning Reading Routine
Starting the day with a book can be a game-changer. It gives you a chance to focus before the noise of the day takes over and sets a more intentional tone.
Whether you're reading for learning, motivation, or enjoyment, morning reading has some obvious benefits:
Higher Focus & Retention—Your brain is well-rested, making it easier to absorb and remember what you read.
More Likely to Stick to the Habit—Life gets busy. Reading in the morning ensures it happens before distractions take over.
Gentle Start to the Day—Instead of jumping straight into emails or work, a book can help you ease into the morning with something uplifting, educational, or inspiring.
Boosts Creativity & Problem-Solving—Many great ideas come from reading and starting your day with fresh insights can lead to more creative thinking throughout the day.
Pairs Well with Other Morning Habits—Reading goes well with coffee, journaling, or meditation, making it easy to incorporate into your routine.
Disadvantages of a Morning Reading Routine
Morning reading sounds ideal, but it’s not for everyone. Depending on your schedule and energy levels, it might feel rushed or difficult to maintain.
Here are a few potential drawbacks:
Mornings Can Be Rushed—If you have early work hours, kids to get ready, or other commitments, carving out reading time might feel impossible.
Not Everyone Feels Sharp in the Morning—Some people need time (and caffeine) before their brains fully wake up. If you struggle with morning grogginess, reading might not be the best use of that time.
Competing Priorities—Exercise, meditation, and work prep are common morning habits. If your mornings are already packed, adding reading might feel like another obligation.
Requires Discipline—A structured morning reading habit takes consistency, especially if your mornings are chaotic or unpredictable.
Who Benefits Most from Morning Reading?
Morning reading isn’t for everyone, but it’s the perfect fit for some.
Early risers who enjoy quiet, focused time before the world wakes up will find it rewarding. If you value slow, intentional mornings, reading can become a meaningful part of that routine.
Morning reading is also a great habit for goal-oriented individuals who want to start their day with motivation and inspiration. Whether you’re reading to improve your mindset, build skills, or work toward a personal goal, reading can set the stage for a productive day.
Professionals and entrepreneurs often use morning reading as a tool for growth. If you rely on books to spark ideas, develop your business, or gain industry insights, reading early allows you to apply those lessons throughout the day.
Finally, if your schedule is packed and you struggle to find reading time later, mornings might be your best bet. By setting aside just 10–15 minutes in the morning, you can make sure your reading happens before work, family, or daily responsibilities take over.
How to Make the Most of Morning Reading
Making morning reading a habit doesn’t have to be complicated. A few minor adjustments can help you build consistency and enjoy the process.
Pair It with Your Existing Routine
Reading is easier to maintain when it fits naturally into your morning routine. Try reading while drinking coffee, journaling, or eating breakfast.
Start Small
If mornings feel rushed, begin with just 5 or 10 minutes. Short reading sessions add up, and consistency matters more than duration.
Choose the Right Books
Morning reading sets the tone for the day, so pick books that inspire, educate, or motivate you. A few pages of nonfiction, self-improvement, or philosophy can be a great way to start.
Avoid Screen Distractions
Using a physical book or a Kindle Paperwhite can help you stay focused. Reading on your phone or tablet might tempt you to check emails or scroll instead.
Keep Your Book Visible
Out of sight, out of mind. Place your book somewhere obvious—like a bedside table, coffee station, or reading chair—so it’s easy to grab in the morning.
How I Make Morning Reading Work
For a long time, I started every morning with a solid hour of reading. Working from home and having grown children means I have the privilege of slow mornings—something I don’t take for granted.
My go-to books for morning reading are personal development or business books, and I also enjoy 365-day books. This year, I’m reading A Calendar of Wisdom by Leo Tolstoy.
But I’ll be honest—somewhere along the way, I slipped into the habit of scrolling Facebook instead. Social media quickly takes over, even when you know reading is the better choice.
Lately, I’ve been shifting back to morning reading because my day feels better when I start with something meaningful.
If you’ve ever fallen off the “reading wagon,” you’re not alone. Life gets busy, distractions creep in, and before you know it, your phone has replaced your books.
But you can always start again. Five or ten minutes of morning reading—even occasionally—can shape your day.
Final Thoughts About Morning Reading Routines
Morning reading isn’t for everyone, but if it works for you, it offers a great start to your day. Whether you’re building a habit, reading when your mind is sharpest, or carving out quiet time, a book can shift your morning in powerful ways.
If you’ve fallen out of the habit—morning or otherwise—you can always start again. Even a few pages can set a different tone for your day.
In the next post, we’ll explore afternoon reading and why it might be the best option for those with flexible schedules or who need a midday break.
