The Read Well Podcast: Episode Summary
Episode Title: When Reading FEELS Overwhelming | EP 87
Host: Eddy Hood
Release Date: February 3, 2025
In Episode 87 of The Read Well Podcast, host Eddy Hood delves into the common struggles that readers face when reading becomes overwhelming. This episode offers empathy, practical advice, and personal insights to help listeners navigate feelings of inadequacy, comparison, and self-criticism in their reading journeys.
1. Acknowledging Common Reader Struggles
Introduction to Overwhelm
Eddy Hood opens the episode by addressing the pervasive feelings of self-doubt and overwhelm that many readers experience. He shares his personal vulnerabilities and emphasizes that these feelings are normal and widespread.
"Sometimes I don't feel good about myself as a reader. Little thoughts slither into my brain and they destroy my motivation."
— Eddy Hood [00:00]
Community Feedback
Hood references messages from his community highlighting key struggles:
- Reading Slump: Feeling unraveled in maintaining a reading habit.
- Falling Behind: Anxiety over not keeping pace with reading goals.
- Overwhelming TBR Lists: The "To Be Read" pile becomes a source of stress.
"I'm not reading as many books as my friends. What's wrong with me?"
— Community Member [02:30]
2. The Trap of Comparison
Natural Tendency to Compare
Hood explains that humans are wired to compare themselves to others, which can be both motivating and draining.
"We're pre-wired to compare. It's a good thing. It's the driving force behind every improvement we've ever made as a species. But it's also mentally draining."
— Eddy Hood [05:15]
Impact of BookTube
He critically examines the BookTube community, suggesting that many content creators exaggerate their reading habits to stay relevant, which can lead to readers feeling inadequate.
"Most of those BookTubers don't read the books they claim to enjoy... They review book summaries, they scan Goodreads reviews, and they often rely on ChatGPT to tell them what these books are actually about."
— Eddy Hood [08:45]
3. Dealing with Overwhelming TBR Lists
The Burden of Too Many Books
Hood discusses the stress caused by growing TBR lists and the pressure to read more.
"I have to work through them. And do you feel that it's that sense that reading has just become work instead of a curiosity or a pleasure?"
— Eddy Hood [12:10]
Acceptance and Purposeful Reading
He advises accepting that it's impossible to read every desired book and encourages focusing on quality over quantity.
"The moment I accept my own limitations, I feel better. In fact, that gives me permission to stop reading boring books. I am grateful for the books in my life, and I'm also fine if I never get to all of them."
— Eddy Hood [14:50]
4. Overcoming Self-Criticism
The Boogeyman of Self-Doubt
Hood identifies self-critical thoughts as one of the most detrimental emotions readers face.
"Am I good enough to read this book? Am I getting what it's teaching? Am I going to even be able to apply this stuff?"
— Eddy Hood [18:30]
Strategies to Cope
He encourages recognizing these negative thoughts as natural neurological responses and letting them go.
"Just do your best to acknowledge the criticism for what it is. It's some kind of neurological wiring designed to help you survive in a dangerous world. Just know it's that and then let it go."
— Eddy Hood [21:05]
5. Personal Commitment and Changes
Reevaluating Recommendations
In response to community feedback, Hood explains his shift from recommending multiple books a month to focusing on one. This change aims to foster deeper engagement and reduce overwhelm.
"I'm changing my tactic in 2025. Now I'm only recommending one book a month. All my content for that month will pull valuable lessons from the recommendation."
— Eddy Hood [24:50]
Example of Previous Recommendations
He reflects on his January recommendation, Deep Work by Cal Newport, highlighting its impact on his productivity and focus.
6. Featured Book Recommendation
February's Book: How to Live by Sarah Bakewell
Hood introduces the February recommendation, How to Live or A Life of Montaigne by Sarah Bakewell, a series of essays exploring Michel de Montaigne's life and philosophies.
"Montagnard's essays have survived because he was fascinated with the weirdness of himself. He wrote authentically without that smoke and mirror stuff I was talking about. He really just gets down to an honest sort of 'this is what it's like to be human' conversation."
— Eddy Hood [28:35]
Why This Book?
He praises Bakewell's work for making Montaigne's complex ideas accessible and relatable, serving as an excellent entry point for readers interested in exploring deeper philosophical thoughts without the intimidation of Montaigne's lengthy original texts.
"Sarah Bakewell's book is nice because it's a gentle way... it's much easier to consume and enjoy."
— Eddy Hood [31:20]
7. Conclusion and Encouragement
Embracing Reading as a Journey
Hood concludes by reaffirming his belief in the value of reading despite its challenges. He shares how books have positively influenced his life, providing navigation through various personal and professional arenas.
"Books have given me a life I'm proud of. I use them to navigate college and my career, to raise a family with some amazing kiddos and a wonderful wife that is the center of my life."
— Eddy Hood [36:10]
Final Advice
He urges listeners to read slowly, take notes, and apply the ideas, emphasizing the importance of purposeful and enjoyable reading over sheer volume.
"Pick up a book, give yourself some grace. When you have those feelings, acknowledge them, let them leave, and then start again on page one until next week."
— Eddy Hood [38:45]
Call to Action
Hood directs listeners to his website, thereadwellpodcast.com, for additional resources, including daily posts, book notes, and tools to enhance their reading habits.
Key Takeaways
- Normalize Overwhelm: Feeling stressed about reading goals is common; acknowledge and accept these feelings.
- Avoid Comparisons: Resist comparing your reading habits to others, especially sensationalized portrayals on platforms like BookTube.
- Manage TBR Lists: Limit your reading list to what feels manageable and focus on quality engagement with each book.
- Combat Self-Criticism: Recognize negative self-talk as a natural reaction and consciously let it go to maintain a healthy reading mindset.
- Purposeful Reading: Shift focus from quantity to depth, ensuring that each reading experience is meaningful and fulfilling.
Notable Quotes:
-
"I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, I am not a poser for reading this book."
— Eddy Hood [26:40] -
"Any book can be beneficial in your life if you give it the time to do its job."
— Eddy Hood [22:15]
Resources Mentioned:
-
Recommended Book for February: How to Live or A Life of Montaigne by Sarah Bakewell
Available at edgewaterbookstore.com -
January’s Recommendation: Deep Work by Cal Newport
For more insights and tools to enhance your reading habits, visit thereadwellpodcast.com.
This summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 87, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened. Eddy Hood's empathetic approach and actionable advice aim to empower readers to navigate their reading journeys with confidence and joy.