Does anyone find it hard to meditate or read like me?

I just started meditation yesterday for the first time and for some reason I can not quiet my mind, my thoughts are racing big time. Is it because meditate takes a lot of practice? And also with reading I can not find myself sitting down with a book; I can not sit still. My mind wonders when I do read. I feel there are too many words on one page to go through. Anyone ever feel this way? I do not know why I feel like this to tell you the truth. What are some exercises or mantra's to help me through all of this. I feel also there is not enough time in one day and I feel like I am always being rushed to do things.
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I'm not an expert but I can tell you what works for me.

I meditate on a mantra. After spending a few minutes relaxing I take slow breaths and mentally say my mantra with each exhalation. Your mind will wander, don't worry about it or judge yourself, just every time you catch your mind wandering return to your mantra. With practice you will get better at meditating but don't be impatient. The process of sitting quietly is good even if you can't keep your mind on your mantra. Try 20 minute sessions once or twice a day.

I don't think any mantra is better than any other. I've used sham and ohm.

I found that the very deepest meditation you loose your mantra but not to invading thoughts, for a while your mind completely clears. This doesn't happen every time but when it does it is rather profound.

The other thing I learned about meditation is don't try it after a big meal, I just fall asleep.