India, Jan. 11 -- F ew things match the joy of getting lost in a good book, until one day, even turning a page feels like effort. Motivation dips, books remain unfinished, and reading starts to feel more like a task than a pleasure. If you love the idea of reading but can't seem to begin, you're likely in a reading slump. And no, it doesn't mean you've fallen out of love with books. Reading is ultimately a habit, and like any habit, it can weaken and be rebuilt with time and consistency. We spoke to experts to understand why reading slumps happen, and how to ease back into reading without pressure. According to consultant psychiatrist Dr Kedar Tilwe, reading slumps are often linked to mental overload rather than lack of motivation. "Daily worries, disrupted routines, constant preoccupation and anxiety can interfere with reading and gradually reduce interest," he says. Living in a screen-heavy world adds to the problem. Short-form content, reels and endless scrolling shrink attention spans, making long-form reading feel demanding. "Most digital content is quick and bite-sized, while reading requires sustained focus," Dr Tilwe explains. His advice: start small. Even a few minutes of daily reading, something genuinely enjoyable, can help rebuild focus. For a more practical reset, Meera Raman, co-founder and CEO of BoiPoka, shares simple, low-pressure ways to ease back into reading. Pick up a crime or mystery novel: There's a reason thrillers dominate reading lists. When focus is low, suspense does the heavy lifting. You don't need deep emotional investment, just a question and the promise of answers. Start a book series: Once you're familiar with the characters and their world, reading feels less like starting afresh and more like returning to something familiar. Momentum builds naturally. Choose shorter books: Finishing a book quickly restores confidence. That sense of completion matters more than you realise. One finished book often leads to another. Re-read an old favourite: Comfort reads are underrated. Knowing where the story goes can calm a restless mind and remove performance pressure. Experiment with formats: Audiobooks can be a great re-entry point. Listen while commuting or doing chores. Once the story hooks you, switching to a physical book or e-reader feels effortless....