5 Steps to Your Next Reading Goal

2019 is almost here! If you are like me, you probably started planning out your 2019 reading goals a few weeks ago. If not, don’t worry. I have a simple 5 step system for creating realistic reading goals.

Step One: Reflect on 2018

Did you meet your reading goal for 2018 or for previous years? I met my reading goal for 2018, thanks to planning, BUT in 2016 and 2017 I did not even come close to my goals. I was overly ambitious both years to say the least.

If you did not have any reading goals, now is a good time to reflect on your reading habits. How often do you read? What types of media are you reading? Consider both those answers as you move forward.

Step Two: What does 2019 hold for you?

Are there any significant events happening in your life this coming year? Are you graduating from school? Planning a vacation? Getting married? In a wedding party? Moving? Starting a new job? Having a baby? Starting college?

Consider all the significant changes that you know of. These events will add stress to your day to day life and take time away from your goals (reading and non-reading).

Step Three: What do you want to accomplish?

Do you simply want to develop a habit of reading? Or do you want to read more? Maybe you want to read books outside your favorite genre? Read more series or stay away from series? Or even start audiobooks. Whatever it is you want to accomplish with your reading goals think back to the previous two steps.

In 2018 I wanted to read 50 books and focused on diversity in YA. It was a challenge, I strayed from the goal, but was able to read over 50 books. In 2019 I plan to read 100 of the best YA books. There is a post coming, don’t worry.

Step Four: What is your budget?

Looking at your budget for books is something all readers fear. Really, most people don’t enjoy living by a strict budget but we do what we must. Based on your goal can you afford to buy new books? Are you a member of a library? If so, you can borrow books. Will you purchase new physical books, ebooks, or other digital content?

As I said above, I plan to read 100 books. I will borrow as many as possible from my local library, prime reading, and friends. Then buy the remaining as cheaply as possible. Just be mindful that buying books can add up quickly.

Step Five: Write down your goal!

Hold yourself accountable! Write down your goal and start a Goodreads reading challenge for 2019. I do both. Find your reading friends online or in person to share your goals and ambitions with!

If you are interested in my reading goal, follow me on Goodreads and keep an eye out for my 2019 goal post coming soon!

Do you already have your goals planned out? Or are you anti-goals? Please share your goals or thoughts on goals!