Know literacy statistics. More than 20 percent of adults read below a fifth-grade level, which is well below the reading level needed to earn a minimum wage. Almost 44 million adults in the U.S. don't read well enough to read a short story to their child. It is estimated that illiteracy costs U.S. taxpayers more than $20 billion per year. More than three out of four of those on welfare and 68% of people arrested are illiterate. In U.S. prisons, three in five inmates cannot read.
Take in positive things. Consider the relevance of what your mind takes in every day, whether by news, TV, billboards or email. What your mind receives affects you, either in a positive or a negative way. Deliberately choose reading material that will leave a positive influence on your life.
Read for success. Observe successful people and their habits. Most have reading libraries in their homes. Their habit of reading helped them succeed, so take a clue from that connection.
Be careful not to make excuses. Even if you're broke, you can get a library card and have access to a wealth of knowledge for no cost at all. If you are able to read, consider those poor individuals who can't read and be thankful for the opportunity to learn.
Spend time with a good book. You don't have to always learn when reading; you can also be entertained. You'll be surprised how the pressures of life fade away when you're in the middle of a riveting novel.