Section 1.1: Set a Manageable Goal

When I discovered that some people read 50 or even 100 books annually, I felt a mix of inspiration and despair. The idea of dedicating so much time to reading seemed unrealistic. I enjoy reading, but I also love scrolling through social media and sometimes going weeks without picking up a book.

To rekindle my reading habit, I established a manageable goal: 22 books for the year, or approximately 2 each month. This felt ambitious yet attainable.

What you can do:

• Reflect on the time you can realistically devote to reading.
• Aim for a goal that excites you rather than intimidates you. Consider these questions:
  • How many hours can I allocate to reading each month?
  • What number of books or pages feels doable for me?
  • When will I set aside time for reading?
  • How will I carve out time to read?

Section 1.2: Leverage Goodreads

My Goodreads profile has been instrumental in my reading journey. Essentially, Goodreads is a social platform dedicated to books, allowing you to connect with fellow readers, rate books, create reading lists, and set annual reading challenges.

For 2023, my target is to read 23 books. Using Goodreads helps me track my progress and celebrate achievements, keeping my reading goals at the forefront of my mind.

What you can do:

• Create an account on Goodreads.
• Select a few titles you wish to explore.
• Set a yearly challenge to reach your reading goals (accessible via the profile icon in the upper right corner).

The first video titled "5 Tips for Setting Reading Goals" offers valuable insights on how to establish effective reading targets and maintain motivation.

Section 1.3: Don’t Hesitate to Move On

Previously, I made the error of forcing myself to finish books I didn’t enjoy. However, I’ve learned that it’s perfectly acceptable to set a book aside if it doesn’t resonate with me. Time is far too precious to waste on books that don’t inspire.

By allowing myself to abandon unfulfilling reads, I create space for captivating and transformative stories.

What you can do:

• Give yourself permission to stop reading a book you dislike.
• If this is challenging, ponder these questions:
  • Why do I feel compelled to finish every book?
  • How can I adjust my mindset to accept the choice to stop reading?
  • How can I select better books to minimize disappointments?

Section 1.4: Keep Books Accessible

I make it a habit to carry a book or e-reader wherever I go—be it at a doctor’s appointment, during my daily commute, or while out with friends. I also keep a book next to my bed, making it easy to read a few pages before sleeping.

By ensuring that my books are always within reach, I reduce the friction of starting to read.

What you can do:

• Keep your reading material close at hand.

Section 1.5: Read in Short Bursts

I used to believe that I needed an uninterrupted hour to enjoy reading, which was a ridiculous notion. While long reading sessions are wonderful, I’ve learned that even a brief 10-minute window can be used productively.

Instead of reaching for my phone during those spare moments, I now opt for my book.

What you can do:

• Always have your book or e-reader on hand and take advantage of short waiting periods to read.