Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by BiblioLifestyle

It’s always a good time to start new habits and set new goals, and what better way to begin than by focusing on your reading habits?  Reading not only helps improve knowledge and vocabulary but also reduces stress and enhances mental health. Reading has always been a source of relaxation and escape for me, and I always prioritize setting reading goals for myself each year. I will even revisit them at different intervals throughout the year and change my reading goals if they’re not working for me, remove a goal or two if it starts to be overwhelming, and add a goal if it’s more in alignment with where I am at that given time.

What is an example of a reading goal?

An example of a reading goal for an adult could be deciding to read a book from a new genre every month. This goal not only encourages regular reading but also exposes the reader to a wide variety of writing styles, themes, and perspectives. For instance, if you typically read mystery novels, you might choose to read a science fiction book one month, followed by a classic novel the next month, and then a collection of poetry the month after. This approach can broaden your literary horizon and enrich your overall reading experience.

So, what reading goals can you set for yourself this year?  Here are 23 reading goal ideas for adults that you can try, along with how to achieve them.

23 Reading Goal Ideas for Adults

Read one book from each genre

This reading goal idea can broaden your horizons and take you out of your comfort zone. So choose a diverse range of genres and challenge yourself to read something you wouldn’t usually pick up.

Read a classic novel

Reading a classic novel is a great way to improve your understanding and appreciation of literature. Choose a book that you’ve always been curious about, or one that’s been recommended to you.

Read a book based on its cover

Sometimes, judging a book by its cover can lead to a pleasant surprise plus it’s a fun reading goal idea. Choose a book that catches your eye and see where it takes you.

Read a book that has been adapted for screen

Books are often adapted for movies or TV shows, but they don’t always reflect the full story. Read the original book and see how it compares to its adaptation and see which one you like better.

Read a book in translation

Reading a book in translation can give you a new perspective and help you discover new cultures and writing styles. Choose a book from an author or country that you haven’t explored before.

Read a biography or autobiography

Biographies and autobiographies are not only informative but also inspiring.  To make this a fun reading goal idea, pick one about someone you’re curious about, and learn more about their life.

Read a book by an author of a different race or ethnicity

Diversify your reading and supporting authors from various backgrounds is an excellent reading goal idea!  Choose a book by an author of a different race or ethnicity, and immerse yourself in their unique perspective.

Read a self-help book

Self-help books can provide valuable insights and practical advice for self-improvement. Choose one that interests you and start working towards your personal goals.

Read a book that was banned

Discover why certain books have been banned and make up your own mind. Choose a book that interests you or one that has been recommended to you.

Read a book released in the year you were born

Relive the year you were born with a book released in that year. It’s a fun way to reminisce and maybe even discover a new favorite author.

Read a book recommended by a friend

Your friends might have excellent taste in books, so ask them for recommendations. You might discover a brilliant new author or genre that you wouldn’t otherwise have considered.

Read a book that has won a literary award

Choose a book that has won a literary award such as the Pulitzer Prize, Man Booker Prize, or Nobel Prize in Literature. These books are celebrated for their quality and can broaden your horizons.

Read a book of poetry

Poetry can be a beautiful and moving form of literature. Choose a poet or collection of poems that has been recommended to you and let the words speak for themselves.

Read a book with a one-word title

This goal can provide a fun challenge and broaden your reading options. Choose a book with a one-word title and see where it takes you.

Read a book that was written in your favorite decade

If you have a favorite decade, reading a book written during that time can provide insight into the popular culture and the mindset of the era. It can also be a chance to discover a hidden gem.

Read a book that takes place in a different country

Reading a book set in a different country can broaden your horizons and provide insights into different cultures. Try reading a popular book from a different country or find a memoir from an expat.

Read a book that is known for its humor

Laughter is the best medicine, and a humorous book can be a great way to reduce stress and enjoy some downtime. Choose a book that’s known for its humor or ask for recommendations from friends.

Read a book that challenges your beliefs

It’s important to challenge our beliefs and keep an open mind. Choose a book that presents different perspectives or challenges your worldview and see what you can learn from it.

Read a book set in the future

Science fiction is a popular genre for imagining the future, but it can also be a way to reflect on our current society and its potential consequences. Choose a sci-fi book and see what predictions come true.

Read a book that is over 500 pages

A long book can provide a satisfying reading experience and a feeling of accomplishment. Choose a book that interests you and enjoy the journey.

Read a book by a local author

Support your local authors by choosing a book written by someone from your community. It can be a chance to discover talented writers and read something unique.

Set a goal to read for a certain amount of time each day

If you struggle to find time to read, set a goal to read for a specific amount of time every day. It can be as little as 15 minutes or an hour, but committing to a daily reading habit can help you achieve your overall reading goals.

Read a book that you’ve been putting off

Finally, choose a book that you’ve been meaning to read but haven’t gotten around to yet. Whether it’s a daunting classic or a pricey new release, make 2021 the year that you finally tackle that book.

Frequently Asked Questions about Reading Goals for Adults

What are the 4 main goals of reading?

The four main goals of reading are comprehension, interpretation, critical evaluation, and appreciation. Comprehension involves understanding the basic meaning of the text, including key ideas, details, and sequence of events. Interpretation concerns making inferences based on the text, such as predicting outcomes, understanding themes, and recognizing the author’s purpose. Critical evaluation means making judgments about the text, evaluating its credibility, and determining whether the arguments are valid or the information is accurate. Lastly, appreciation entails developing a love for reading and recognizing the beauty of language, style, and narrative craft. These four goals of reading help readers become more informed, empathetic, and critical thinkers.

What is a good reading goal for a day?

A good reading goal for a day varies depending on individual preferences and schedules. However, a common approach is to set a goal to read for a specific amount of time each day. This could be 30 minutes, an hour, or even two hours for avid readers. Alternatively, some people may choose to read a certain number of pages or chapters per day. For example, setting a goal to read 50 pages or one chapter daily can be a manageable and satisfying target. Reading during a daily commute, before bed, or during lunch breaks can help incorporate this enriching habit into everyday routines. The key is to set a realistic goal that fits your lifestyle and maintains your interest and enthusiasm for reading.

What is an example of a smart goal for reading books?

An example of a SMART goal for reading books could be: “I will read two historical fiction novels of at least 300 pages each over the next two months.” This goal is Specific (reading two historical fiction novels), Measurable (of at least 300 pages each), Achievable and Realistic (considering the person’s reading speed and available time), and Time-bound (over the next two months). This approach ensures the goal is clear, trackable, and within the reader’s ability, thus increasing the likelihood of success. Other SMART goal ideas could include reading a set number of books in a year, completing a reading challenge, or exploring new genres and authors. The key is to tailor the goal to your personal interests and strengths.

What is your relationship with reading goals?

Reading goals for adults can be a helpful way to motivate and challenge yourself to read more and diversify your reading habits. Whether it’s setting specific goals like reading a certain number of books or pages, trying out different genres, or committing to a daily reading habit, there are plenty of ways to make reading a priority. So go ahead and pick one (or more!) of these ideas for reading goals.

Do you set reading goals?  What are your reading goals for 2024?  What do you think about this list of reading goal ideas for adults?  What reading goal ideas would you add to this list?  Let us talk all about reading goals in the comments below!

MORE READING:

• How To Set and Achieve Your Reading Goals
• Everything You Need To Know About Reading Challenges
• Creative Ways to Incorporate Your Reading and Personal Goals
• Before You Set Your Reading Goals Do This
• The 2024 Reading Challenge
• How Audiobooks Can Help You Read More: A Beginner’s Guide to Start Listening