Level Up Your Life: How to Crush Your Reading Goals (and Actually Finish Those Books!)

Ever feel judged by that towering TBR (to-be-read) pile? You swear you'll conquer it, but somehow, a year later, it seems even bigger. Or maybe you devour books like candy, but wonder if you're just reading fluff.

Here's the secret: reading can be your superpower for becoming a total rockstar (yes, really). But to truly level up your life through literature, you need a plan. This guide will turn your bookshelf into a launchpad for learning and serious self-improvement, all in bite-sized chunks.

Step 1: Find Your Reading "Why"

Before diving into a sea of titles, figure out what fuels your love of reading. Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Maybe you crave knowledge in a specific field to dominate your career. Or perhaps you just want to unwind with a mind-blowing story. Knowing your "why" will steer your goal-setting and ensure you grab books that light your fire.

Step 2: SMART Goals = Slay Goals!

Now that you know your "why," let's translate it into action with the magic of SMART goals:

• Specific: Ditch the vague "read more" and aim for something clear, like "devour 30 minutes of a book daily" or "finish 2 leadership books."

• Measurable: Track your progress with a simple reading journal, Goodreads, or another cool app.

• Attainable: Start with achievable goals and gradually crank up the difficulty as you become a reading champion.

• Relevant: Make sure your goals connect back to your overall reading purpose.

• Time-bound: Set a deadline for conquering that TBR pile, whether it's a month, a quarter, or a year.

Step 3: Explore Different Genres!

While focusing on your area of interest is awesome, don't be afraid to branch out! A well-rounded reading diet exposes you to fresh perspectives, ignites your creativity, and makes you a total knowledge powerhouse.

Step 4: Tech Tools for the Modern Reader

Supercharge your reading life with some tech-savvy tools! Here are a few to consider:

• Track Your Progress & Discover New Reads: For a social twist on tracking your reading, check out StoryGraph, which lets you see how your choices connect and explore recommendations based on your tastes. If you prefer a simple and customizable approach, Reading List is a great option for managing your TBR and setting goals.

• Bonus Tools: In addition to tracking and managing your reading, here are some other helpful apps:

  • Forest: Gamify your reading and make it a relaxing escape by planting virtual trees that grow as you focus.

  • Calibre: For those with a large ebook collection, Calibre is a powerful tool to manage formats and organize your digital library.

  • LibraryThing: Bookworms, rejoice! LibraryThing is a comprehensive cataloging tool for organizing both your physical and digital library.

Step 5: Reading is a Journey, Enjoy the Ride!

Remember, reading should be a thrill ride, not a chore. Ditch books that bore you faster than yesterday's bagel and focus on quality over quantity. Embrace the adventure of discovery, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, have a blast getting lost in a captivating story or learning something that blows your mind.

Ready to Slay Your Reading Goals?

With a clear purpose, a killer plan, and the right tools, you're well on your way to transforming your reading life. So, grab your favorite book, find your cozy corner, and embark on a journey of intentional learning and serious self-improvement. Happy reading, bookworm!

Bonus Tip: I've never been part of one myself but I hear book clubs are awesome! I DO know, however, that discussing books with others deepens my understanding, exposes me to different viewpoints, and keeps me motivated to keep reading. Maybe I should join one or start one myself!

Are you in a book club? Let me know!