Do you have a never-ending TBR list? How many books are on that list that you already own but haven’t read? It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of new releases, and before you know it, your shelves are overflowing with books you may never get around to reading. So we will discuss six ways to focus on reading the books you already own and stop ordering new books impulsively when you have too many unread books!
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Organize your bookshelves.
If you’re finding it difficult to focus on reading the books you already own, maybe it’s time to downsize, declutter, and organize your bookshelves. Start by getting rid of those books you know you won’t read, and the books you’re not sure about right now should go into storage. Then, only keep the books you know you want to read on your shelves. You can also trade books with friends or family members. If someone has a book you’re interested in reading, ask them to trade it! And vice versa – if you have a friend who’s dying to read one of your favorite books, trade away!
Make a list of the books you want to read.
This is probably the most important tip. If you don’t have a plan, it’s easy to get lost in your books. So please make a list of the books you want to read in order of priority and try to stick to them as much as possible.
Let’s set some reading goals.
Another great way to focus on reading the books already in your possession is by setting some goals for yourself. For example, decide how many books you want to read from your TBR list in a certain amount of time, and then go for it! This can be a great way to motivate yourself and make progress on your TBR.
Don’t order new books impulsively.
This can be tough, but if you stick to your list, you won’t need to order new books. And if you do find yourself wanting a new book, try to wait at least a week before buying it. That way, you’ll be sure that you really want it.
Your Library is Your Best Friend.
One way to focus on reading the books you own is by using your library. If there’s a new book that you’re dying to read but don’t want to spend the money on it, check out the library! You can still get your hands on the book without purchasing it. You can also use your library to “try before you buy.” If you’re unsure if you’ll like a book, borrow it from the library and decide whether or not to purchase a copy after reading it. While waiting on your new book from the library, you can also use this time to read the books you already own and are sitting on your shelf.
Set aside time each day to read
This doesn’t mean reading for hours on end. On the contrary, even thirty minutes each day can make a big difference. This is because so much dead time can be found throughout the day, and occasionally, unplanned moments of free time open up. So instead of scrolling through social media, pick up your book, grab your e-reader and read a few pages, or pop in your headphones and listen to an audiobook.
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Mix your reading up
Another way to make progress on your TBR is to try and mix things up a bit. For example, pick a book from your TBR list and read it alongside a book that’s completely different from it. This can help keep things interesting and prevent you from getting bored with either of the books.
Set some limits
Finally, we recommend setting some limits for yourself when ordering new books online. For example, try only to order books you know you plan to read immediately or within the next month. Also, avoid ordering books you see everyone else reading that are not something you’d naturally gravitate towards.
In addition, you can make exceptions for a new or rare collectible edition, the latest book in a series you love, or an author whose books you’re being intentional about reading. Setting limits for oneself is hard and challenging, but it’s a great way to prevent your shelves from becoming cluttered with unread books.
We hope these tips will provide insight on how to read and focus on the books you already own. What are some other ways that work well for you? What has helped you to make progress on your TBR? Let’s talk about it in the comments below!
Such great tips! Definitely putting some of these to use for 2022(:
Happy to be of service! 😇📚