From 2025 to 2026: Book Goals

From 2025 to 2026: Book Goals

Happy New Year, readers! Another year has come and gone, which means it’s time to reflect on past reading goals and set new ones for the year ahead.

2025 was the year I fully returned to reading and began treating it as a form of self-care, a hobby that helped keep me grounded in this hectic thing called life. At the beginning of the year, I set two main goals: to start this blog and to read 100 books. While I did start the blog (which I’m incredibly proud of), I didn’t quite reach my reading goal. Instead, I read close to 40 books in 2025.

As the year came to an end, I found myself online watching others celebrate reaching,and even exceeding, their reading goals. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little disappointed in myself. I kept thinking about all the moments I could have used to read, but the truth is, time simply wasn’t on my side in 2025. Between life’s responsibilities and limited finances, sitting down to read or purchasing new books wasn’t always possible. I relied heavily on Libby, and we all know how long those waitlists can be.

It may sound like excuses, especially to those who read 100 or more books a year, but it truly didn’t come easy for me. Then I reminded myself that 2025 was my year of returning to reading consistently. Life happens, and sometimes we have to set aside the things we love to take care of what’s necessary.

When I looked back over my reading list, I realized I read some amazing books and discovered a few great series. Reading more also inspired me to start this blog, encouraged me to write more, and even fueled the creativity behind the children’s books I’m currently working on and hope to publish in the near future.

I’m learning not to compare myself to other readers and instead be proud of what I’ve accomplished. Reading isn’t a competition, it’s meant to be enjoyed, cherished, and used as an escape. While a part of me still wants to redeem myself and reach that 100-book goal someday, I’m also learning to give myself grace.

Now that it’s 2026, I’m stepping into the new year with fresh reading and writing goals. As I continue this blog, I’d love to share more of my writing, along with my journey toward publishing my children’s books. With a renewed mindset, I’m excited to discover new series, explore more books, and embrace what this year has to offer.

2026 is going to be a fulfilling year, and I’m truly looking forward to it.

Here are my 2026 reading goals:

1. Set a realistic reading goal for myself

2. Read for enjoyment, not just to reach a number

3. Explore different genres, especially poetry

4. Spend less time scrolling and more time reading

5. Finally get a Kindle (I’ve always wanted one!)

Here’s to a new year filled with stories, growth, and grace. 📚✨