Reading Goals: The Only New Year’s Resolution You Might Actually Keep

From TBR pile panic to page-turning triumph—master the art of outreading your own ambitions (and maybe your friends).

New year, new you—except this time, it’s all about that towering TBR pile glaring at you from the corner. Who knew a simple hobby like reading could come with so much pressure?

Forget gym memberships and juice cleanses; this is the real endurance test. Whether you’re aiming to conquer 65 books like a literary Olympian or just want to sneak in one novel per month without setting off your stress alarms, we’ve got the ultimate guide to turning reading goals from an existential threat into a manageable triumph. 

1. Define Your Number, but Keep It Real Graphic featuring a staircase made of books ascending into the distance, with the text 'Our 2025 Goals' at the top and individual reading goals listed: 'Travis 65' and 'Jaime 60,' displayed on green boxes.

Choose how many books you’ll tackle this year—whether that’s 5 or 50. Think of it as a resolution, but without the calorie-counting.

The key is setting a number that inspires, not intimidates. Bonus points if you actually keep this one. 

2. Make Reading a Non-Negotiable Appointment

Plot out your reading time as if it’s a meeting with someone important (because it is—you!). Whether it’s 30 minutes before bed or during lunch, carve out sacred slots for your bookish adventures. And no, “scrolling social media” doesn’t count.

3. Keep Your Book(s) On You at All Times

Never leave home without a book—it’s your ultimate escape hatch from awkward conversations or waiting-room boredom. Whether it’s a physical book, an e-reader, or an app, you’re always one page away from literary salvation.

4. Join a Book Club (a.k.a. Accountability in Disguise)

Think of book clubs as group therapy, but with fewer tears and more plot twists. Whether local, virtual, or self-started, they provide that gentle nudge (read: peer pressure) to keep you reading. Bonus: you might find your new favorite genre.

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5. Embrace the Glory of Audiobooks

Laundry, commuting, meal prep—suddenly, life’s most mundane tasks become the backdrop for thrilling adventures and swoon-worthy romances. Audiobooks are multitasking magic that transforms “too busy to read” into “just finished another chapter.”

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6. Silence the Siren Call of Distractions

TikTok, Instagram, and endless notifications can wait. Your epic fantasy saga can’t. Activate “Do Not Disturb” mode, put down your phone, and dive into the story that’s been calling your name.

7. Don’t Waste Time on Dull Books

If a book doesn’t spark joy, toss it. Marie Kondo your reading life without a shred of guilt. There are too many good stories out there to waste time slogging through a bad one.

8. Rotate Your Reads for Every Mood

Why settle for one book when you can juggle a few? A gripping thriller for adrenaline-fueled nights, a light romance for lazy Sundays—keeping multiple books on hand ensures you’re always reading what feels right.

9. Track Your Triumphs

Keep a record of what you’ve read—it’s the adult version of a sticker chart, and it feels just as satisfying. Apps, notebooks, or even a spreadsheet work; just make sure you can revel in your progress.

With these tips, your 2025 reading goals are practically begging to be crushed. So grab a book, set your sights on that finish line, and let’s make this the year of epic stories and literary adventures!

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*Apropos Books is an affiliate marketer and Amazon Associate. As an affiliate marketer and an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.*

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