Just as important as starting to read is continuing to read. We will look at the different types of motivation to read, how to build reading habits, and practical ways to make reading a part of your life.
There are many reasons why we read, such as a teacher’s recommendation, a friend’s recommendation, or self-improvement. Reading motivation is defined as “the power to initiate and sustain reading,” which includes two aspects: initiation and continuation. This reading motivation can be explained by applying the two types of “because motivation” and “for motivation” proposed by Schutz.
“Because motivation” in reading refers to the reason that prompted the act of reading. This is the trigger that causes the act of reading, so it refers to an event or experience that has already occurred prior to reading. For example, you may have a question about a particular topic or a desire to acquire new knowledge. These motivations are important driving forces that cause you to start reading. Recommendations from friends or family, or assignments or requirements at school or work can also be “extrinsic” motivations for reading.
On the other hand, the “because motive” of reading refers to the purpose that one wants to achieve through the act of reading. Since the purpose is achieved as a result of the act of reading, it is an expectation or prediction of the person’s state after reading, and it implies the possibility of not achieving it. For example, if you receive a book as a gift from a friend and read it, the gift of the book is the “because motive” of this act of reading. And if the purpose of reading a book is to have a conversation with a friend about the book, that becomes a “for the sake of” motive. Similarly, if the purpose of reading a book is to have a conversation with a friend about the book, this becomes a “for the sake of” motive. If the purpose of reading a book is to have a conversation with a friend about the book, this becomes a “for the sake of” motive.
The “for the sake of reading” motive can include not only the satisfaction of a simple intellectual desire, but also the desire for self-development, problem-solving, or the achievement of a specific goal. For example, reading books to gain expertise to advance one’s career or to obtain a certification falls under the “for the sake of reading” motive. This shows that the act of reading is a powerful tool that can make a real difference in one’s life, beyond a simple hobby. With this motivation, reading can be used as a tool for personal growth rather than a mere obligation, and it also has a positive impact on the long-term development of a reading habit.
This concept of motivation helps explain the process of developing a reading habit. The key to a successful reading experience is to experience pleasure and benefit from the act of reading, which in turn leads to a desire to read more books and new reading practices. The pleasure and benefits of reading become the reason for new reading behaviors, which is a “because” motive. At the same time, it also becomes a “for motive” that makes you want to experience it again through new reading behaviors. Through this virtuous cycle, the reading experience is repeated and deepened, and a reading habit is naturally formed.
In addition, it is important to create an environment where people can read in order to establish a reading habit. Creating a quiet place to read or setting a time to read can help maintain a reading habit. When reading becomes a daily routine, it is no longer a special activity but a natural part of life. Through this process, reading can become an important factor in shaping an individual’s values and way of thinking, beyond being a means of acquiring knowledge.
Therefore, in order to form a reading habit, it is important to start reading based on “because motivation” and “for motivation” and to continue reading through a successful reading experience. A reading habit is not just about reading a lot of books, but an important factor that can lead to positive changes in various aspects of life. To do this, you need to choose books that are right for you, read them regularly, reflect on what you have read, and apply it to your daily life. The knowledge and wisdom gained through reading will greatly contribute to your personal growth and development, which will ultimately be an important foundation for a better life.
