Adjusting my 2025 Reading Goals

After some careful thought last week, I've decided to officially adjust my 2025 reading goal down to 30 books. While it might feel like a defeat to some, for me, it's a strategic move towards a more enjoyable and sustainable reading year.

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Why the Change?

Honestly, my initial goal was a bit ambitious. I love reading, but life, as it always does, has thrown a few curveballs my way that make dedicating massive chunks of time to reading a challenge. Work has been particularly demanding, and I've also been trying to prioritize other hobbies and personal commitments that bring me joy.

For a while, I found myself constantly looking at my reading tracker, feeling a nagging sense of guilt when I wasn't tearing through pages. Reading started to feel like a chore, a box to check off, rather than the beloved escape it's always been for me. That's when I knew something had to change.

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Quality Over Quantity

This adjustment isn't about reading less; it's about reading smarter. By setting a more realistic goal of 30 books, I'm giving myself permission to:

• Savor my reads: No more rushing through a book just to get to the next one. I want to truly immerse myself in the stories, appreciate the writing, and let the characters resonate with me.
• Explore diverse genres: With less pressure, I can branch out and try books I might have previously shied away from because they seemed "too long" or "too challenging."
• Combat reading slumps: The pressure of a high goal can often lead to burnout. By lowering it, I hope to proactively avoid those dreaded reading slumps and keep my reading momentum consistent throughout the year.
• Enjoy the process: Ultimately, I want reading to be a source of joy and relaxation, not another source of stress.

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What This Means for My Reading

This shift in strategy also means I'll be more intentional about my book choices. I'm planning to:

• Focus on my TBR: I have so many amazing books already on my "to be read" pile that I've been putting off. This is their year!
• Be more selective: I'll be more likely to abandon a book if it's not grabbing me. Life's too short to read books you're not enjoying.
• Embrace re-reads: There are comfort reads I love returning to, and now I won't feel guilty about revisiting old favorites.

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Looking Ahead

I'm actually feeling really excited about this new goal. It feels liberating to release the pressure and simply focus on the pure pleasure of reading. My hope is that by the end of 2025, I'll have read 30 truly memorable books that I've genuinely enjoyed, rather than 50 or 60 that I rushed through.

Has anyone else adjusted their reading goals mid-year? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Operation: TBR Takedown – My Book Buying Ban

Okay, fellow book hoarders (you know who you are!), I'm here to confess something that might sound like heresy in the bookish world: I haven't bought a new book in a few months.

And you know what? I'm probably going to keep that streak going for the foreseeable future.

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The Unbearable Weight of Unread Books

For years, my book-buying habits were, shall we say, enthusiastic. A new release caught my eye? Add to cart. A great sale? Buy five. A pretty cover? Must have it. My "To Be Read" (TBR) pile wasn't just a pile; it was a towering monument to good intentions and impulse purchases.

And while a big TBR used to be a source of excitement, it slowly started to become a source of stress. Every time I looked at it, I felt that familiar pang of guilt. So many books to read, so little time. Instead of being a treasure trove of future adventures, it was a constant reminder of things I "should" be doing. It contributed to that pressure I've talked about before, the feeling that I was always behind.

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The Big Decision: No More Buying!

The decision to hit pause on book purchases wasn't a sudden one. It was a slow realization that something had to give. My shelves were groaning, my wallet was sighing, and my mental load was increasing.

So, a few months ago, I made a silent pact with myself: no new books until I make a significant dent in my existing TBR. This isn't about deprivation; it's about shifting my focus. It's about rediscovering the gems I already own, giving them the attention they deserve.

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The Unexpected Benefits of a Book Buying Ban

The surprising thing? This "ban" has been incredibly liberating!

• Financial Relief: Let's be honest, books add up! Not buying new ones has freed up a little extra cash for other things.
• Reduced Decision Fatigue: No more endless Browse or agonizing over which new release to buy next. My options are right there on my shelf, waiting for me.
• Rediscovering My Own Books: It's amazing how many books I bought with genuine excitement, only for them to get buried under subsequent purchases. Now, I'm pulling out titles I completely forgot I owned and feeling that spark of anticipation all over again.
• Less Stress, More Joy: This is the biggest one. The pressure to keep up with new releases is gone. I can simply read what I already have, at my own pace, without the looming shadow of an ever-growing TBR. My reading life feels calmer, more intentional, and ultimately, much more enjoyable.
• Supporting the Library (and My Budget): For those books I really want to read immediately, I'm turning to my local library. It's a fantastic resource and a great way to satisfy my curiosity without breaking my ban.

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My goal is to read through a substantial portion of my existing TBR before I even think about buying another book. It might take a few more months, or even longer, but I'm okay with that. This isn't about punishment; it's about creating a more sustainable and joyful reading habit.

Have you ever gone on a book-buying ban? What was your experience like? I'd love to hear your strategies for tackling a daunting TBR!

Embracing the Snail's Pace: Why I'm a Slow Reader Now (And Loving It!)

For years, I was a speed demon when it came to reading. The faster I finished a book, the more accomplished I felt. It was a race against the clock, a quest to rack up as many completed titles as possible. I'd skim, I'd skip, I'd sacrifice full comprehension for the sheer satisfaction of turning that final page.

But somewhere along the way, something shifted. Maybe it was the constant pressure of keeping up with BookTok trends (which I've thankfully taken a break from, as you might have read!). Maybe it was just a natural evolution in my reading journey. Whatever the reason, I've undergone a transformation.

I've become a slow reader. And you know what? I'm absolutely loving it.

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The Joys of the Leisurely Read

This isn't about setting new personal records. It's about savoring. It's about sinking into a story like a warm bath, rather than just taking a quick shower. Here's why this new, unhurried pace has become my preferred way to read:

• Deeper Immersion: When I read slowly, I'm not just following the plot; I'm experiencing it. I notice the subtle nuances in character development, the rich descriptive language, and the underlying themes. It's like watching a movie in slow motion and finally catching all the details you missed.
• Enhanced Comprehension: No more skimming! I'm actually processing every word, every sentence. This means I'm retaining more of the story, understanding complex ideas, and truly connecting with the author's message.
• Increased Enjoyment: There's no pressure to finish, no nagging feeling that I "should" be done by now. I can put a book down for a few days without guilt, pick it back up, and re-immerse myself without feeling lost. Reading has become a source of pure pleasure again, not another item on a to-do list.
• Time to Reflect: A slower pace allows for more pauses. I find myself stopping to ponder a particularly poignant sentence, to google a historical reference, or just to let my mind wander through the world the author has created. These moments of reflection deepen my appreciation for the craft of writing.
• Better Memory: When I race through books, they often blur together in my mind. Now, each book I read slowly feels distinct and memorable. I can recall specific scenes, quotes, and characters with much greater clarity.

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No Turning Back

I used to measure my reading success by quantity. Now, I measure it by quality – the depth of my engagement, the richness of the experience, and the lasting impression a book leaves on me.

It's been a truly freeing revelation. If you've ever felt the pressure to read faster, or if you're just looking for a new way to enjoy your books, I highly recommend giving the slow reading movement a try. You might just find yourself discovering a whole new level of literary appreciation.

Have you ever shifted your reading pace? What are your thoughts on slow reading versus fast reading? Let me know in the comments!

Escaping the Algorithm: Why I'm Trading BookTok for Blogs (And Loving It!)

Hey everyone,

Lately, I've been feeling a little… overwhelmed. And oddly enough, a big part of that overwhelm was coming from a place I usually find solace: the world of books. Specifically, the highly curated, impossibly fast-paced, and utterly addictive world of BookTok.

Don't get me wrong, I love BookTok. Or at least, I used to. It's an incredible hub for discovering new titles, seeing passionate reviews, and connecting with fellow readers. The sheer energy is infectious.

But somewhere along the line, that energy started to feel less like inspiration and more like a never-ending conveyor belt of "must-reads." Every scroll brought another five-star review, another aesthetically pleasing book stack, another rapid-fire synopsis that made me feel like if I didn't immediately add it to my TBR, I was missing out on the literary experience of a lifetime.

And then there's the comparison game. Everyone seems to be reading at lightning speed, devouring popular titles, and generally being the most productive bookworms on the planet. My own slower, more meandering reading pace started to feel inadequate.

It hit me: instead of feeling relaxed and inspired by books, I was feeling anxious and pressured. The very thing I turned to for escape was becoming another source of digital noise.

So, I did something a little drastic (for me, anyway): I took a break from BookTok.

And you know what? It's been surprisingly liberating.

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Rediscovering the Quiet Corner of the Internet

Instead of the endless scroll of short videos, I've found myself gravitating back to an older, quieter corner of the internet: book blogs.

Remember those? The places where people take the time to write thoughtful, in-depth reviews. Where they share personal reading journeys without the pressure of a 60-second timer. Where you can actually read a full paragraph about why someone loved a particular book, rather than just seeing a reaction shot and a catchy soundbite.

It's a completely different vibe.

• Thoughtful Engagement: Blogs encourage deeper thought. I'm finding myself spending more time truly reading reviews, understanding different perspectives, and engaging with the nuances of a book.
• Less Pressure: There's no unspoken pressure to buy every book mentioned. It's more about discovery and appreciation.
• A Slower Pace: The lack of rapid-fire content means my brain isn't trying to process a dozen new recommendations every minute. It's a much calmer, more intentional way to engage with bookish content.
• A Digital Detox, Sort Of: While blogs are still social media in a way, they don't have the same addictive, algorithm-driven pull as platforms like TikTok. It feels more like a deliberate choice to seek out content rather than being fed it.

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My Reading Life is Happier for It

Since making this shift, I've noticed a real positive change in my overall digital well-being. I feel less anxious about my TBR. I'm choosing books because they genuinely appeal to me after reading a considered review, not because they're trending. And most importantly, I'm finding the joy in reading again, without the background hum of social media pressure.

It's a good reminder that sometimes, stepping back from the loudest voices can help you hear your own preferences more clearly.

Have any of you taken a break from BookTok or other fast-paced platforms? How has it changed your reading life? I'd love to hear your experiences!

The Great Reading Goal Re-Evaluation: 50 Down to 30?

Okay, fellow book lovers, I need to have a moment of honesty with myself (and with all of you!). At the beginning of the year, full of optimism and a fresh planner, I set my reading goal for 2025 at a respectable 50 books. Fifty! That's almost a book a week, and at the time, it felt totally doable.

Fast forward to... well, now. And let's just say my reading pace has been more of a gentle crawl than a brisk sprint. Life, as it often does, has thrown a few curveballs. Work has been demanding, personal commitments have piled up, and honestly, sometimes by the end of the day, all I want to do is stare blankly at a wall (or maybe mindlessly scroll, if I'm being really honest).

The result? My "books read" tracker is looking a little... sparse. And while I won't share the exact number to spare my blushes, let's just say I'm significantly behind schedule if I want to hit that ambitious 50.

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The Internal Debate

This realization has led to a lot of internal back-and-forth. On one hand, there's the stubborn part of me that wants to push through, to catch up, to prove that I can hit that 50-book mark. It's about the challenge, the feeling of accomplishment.

But then there's the other, more pragmatic voice. The one that whispers, "Is this goal actually bringing you joy, or is it just another source of pressure?" And that's where the idea of lowering my goal to 30 books has started to take root.

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Why 30 Might Be the Magic Number

Thinking about 30 books feels… lighter. It feels more achievable, given my current pace and life demands. It would still mean reading consistently, but without the intense pressure of trying to cram in multiple books a week.

Here's why I'm leaning towards the adjustment:

• Less Pressure, More Enjoyment: Reading should be a pleasure, not a chore. The constant nagging feeling of "you're behind!" is starting to detract from the pure enjoyment of getting lost in a story.
• Quality over Quantity: If I'm not scrambling to finish a book just to tick it off a list, I can afford to be more selective, to savor the books I do pick up, and maybe even re-read a favorite without guilt.
• Life Happens: Acknowledging that life gets in the way isn't giving up; it's being realistic. My reading habits ebb and flow, and it's okay to adjust expectations when circumstances change.
• Still a Great Achievement: Even 30 books in a year is a fantastic accomplishment! It means I'm still dedicating time to a hobby I love and exploring new worlds and ideas.

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What Are Your Thoughts?

I'm still mulling it over, but the thought of a more manageable goal is definitely appealing. Have any of you ever had to adjust your reading goals mid-year? How did it feel? Did it help you enjoy your reading more?

I'd love to hear your experiences and any advice you might have as I navigate this potential re-calibration!

Am I Seriously the Last Person on Earth to Read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo?

Okay, bookworms, I need to confess something. Something that, in the vast ocean of literary consumption, feels a little… embarrassing. I am about to embark on a journey that, for many of you, was completed what feels like eons ago.

I am about to read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

Yes, you read that right. Stieg Larsson's phenomenal, globally recognized, and apparently utterly captivating thriller. The one that spawned sequels, movies (both Swedish and American!), and countless conversations around water coolers and dinner tables. The one that practically redefined the modern crime novel.

And I haven't read it. Until now.

I honestly feel like I'm the last person on the planet to pick this up. It's been lurking on my "to-read" list for so long that it's practically grown roots. Every time a new "best thrillers of all time" list pops up, there it is. Every time a friend asks for a book recommendation, and I suggest something dark and twisty, they inevitably say, "Oh, you'd love Dragon Tattoo if you haven't read it!"

And I just nod vaguely, a slight flush creeping up my neck.

So, why the delay? A combination of things, really. The sheer volume of books out there, the endless allure of new releases, and perhaps a touch of intimidation. When a book reaches such a level of ubiquitous praise, there's always that little voice in the back of your head whispering, "What if it doesn't live up to the hype?"

But honestly, the hype is part of what's drawing me in now. I've heard so many good things – about the intricate plot, the compelling characters (especially the enigmatic Lisbeth Salander!), and the dark, gritty atmosphere. People talk about being utterly engrossed, unable to put it down. And that's exactly the kind of reading experience I'm craving right now.

I'm picturing myself diving into the world of Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander, unraveling mysteries, and probably feeling a delightful chill down my spine. I'm ready for the twists, the turns, and whatever shocking revelations Larsson has in store.

So, this is my official public declaration: I'm finally doing it. And I'll be sure to share my thoughts as I go along. For those of you who have read it (which, let's be honest, is probably all of you), no spoilers please! But feel free to share your general excitement or favorite non-spoilerish aspects in the comments below.

Wish me luck as I enter the world of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I have a feeling I'm in for a wild ride.