Reading books fast isn’t necessarily a competition. But, if you love to consume content, it’s only natural that you want to do it just a bit faster when you can. And audiobooks are a great way to do it.

For some background and content, many of you know that I absolutely love to read. In my younger years, I would read whenever I could. I’d consume book after book, eager to start the next one. But many moons ago, when I started reading, audiobooks were not the popular and easily accessible option they are today.

Fast forward to now, and it’s not unusual for me to have two books going at a time—one traditional book read the traditional way and one audiobook that I can “read” when on the go. And since teaching myself to enjoy being read a story versus reading the story for myself, I’ve found a handful of ways to get through the book a bit faster so that I can get onto the next one. So, if you want to get through your audiobooks faster to meet a reading goal or challenge, here are some tips to help you do just that.

Can You Read Too Many Books?

Before I get into my five tips, let me answer a question for you. Can you read too many books? No. Can you own too many books? No. Is reading bad for you? Of course not. So, if you want to read your books faster, why not find a way?

Now, how many books do most people read in a year? Well, that really varies. According to statistics, the average American reads about 14 books per year. But for some, that number is much higher or lower depending on lifestyle, interests, and time constraints. 

My goal for 2024 is to finish 40 books. I know that may sound ambitious, but it’s actually a bit lower than I’d like because I’m coming off a five-year reading hiatus and didn’t really get back into the swing of things until this past summer. 

By 2025, though? My goal will be closer to 60 books. Audiobooks are a fantastic way to help me reach that goal, especially when trying to get through my ever-growing TBR pile. Even if I own a physical copy, I sometimes use an Audible credit to listen to it instead—getting me through my list faster and helping me stay on track with my reading challenge! And here’s what I do.

1. Increase the Reading (Listening Speed)

If you didn’t know you could adjust the playback speed of your audiobooks, it’s time to check it out! Most audiobook apps allow you to speed up the narration without losing clarity. I’ve found that listening between 1.2x and 1.5x helps me get through books faster without missing any details. It may take a little getting used to, but once you do, it can totally change the name of the reading game!

2. Listen During Walks

Incorporating more physical activity into my day, like going for walks, has turned into prime audiobook time. And, it gives me an excellent reprieve from my laptop screen where I tend to focus most of the day. 

Whether it’s a casual stroll or a brisk walk, I pop in my headphones—I’m old school and still listen to wired headphones plugged into my phone—and press play. It’s a great way to make the most of my time and squeeze in a few extra chapters. Walking while “reading” is the perfect mix of productivity and relaxation.

3. Listen to Your Audiobook While Running Errands

Errands like grocery shopping or driving to appointments don’t have to take away from your reading time. I’ve made it a habit to listen to audiobooks in the car, transforming mundane, wasted time into valuable reading moments. Whether it’s a short trip across town or a longer drive, it’s an easy way to chip away at your reading list while you’re out and about.

4. Listen While Getting Ready for the Day

Mornings can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip your book time. I’ve found that listening to my audiobook while getting ready—whether I’m brushing my teeth, doing my hair, or picking out my outfit—lets me start the day with a story. It’s a great way to multitask and stay engaged with my current read, even during busy moments.

5. Listen Before Bed

For a relaxing end to the day, I like to listen to an audiobook before bed. And, when you’re just listening to your book with your eyes closed and not scrolling through your social media apps, it doesn’t count as screen time, right?

Listening to your audiobook can be a calming way to wind down and helps me squeeze in a few extra chapters without the strain of staring at a screen or page. If you’re worried about falling asleep while listening, many apps have a sleep timer feature, so you can enjoy your book without missing out if you drift off. Just maybe don’t choose the latest psychological thriller to put you to sleep, especially if you want to stay asleep versus wake up from a nightmare mid-slumber.

Reading Your Audiobook Helps You Achieve Your Reading Goals

As a copywriter, taking time to read every day helps me meet my reading goals and sharpens my skills. Every book I listen to inspires me with new ideas, fresh perspectives, and insights into storytelling that I can weave into my own work. Reading is more than a pastime—it’s part of how I continue to grow as a writer.

If you want to stay in the loop with what I’m reading and hear about my favorite book clubs, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. And for more bookish content and behind-the-scenes looks at my writing life, follow me on Instagram at @write_read_write_repeat. Let’s continue to connect through stories, both written and read!