Finding Peace in a Stack of Unread Books

As readers, we often set ambitious goals for ourselves. Recently, I found myself in a familiar predicament: juggling 17 books simultaneously, each competing for my attention in an increasingly crowded reading schedule. It’s a situation many book lovers might recognize – the delicate balance between our reading aspirations and the realistic constraints of time.

The Numbers Game

Typically, I maintain about 10 books in rotation: a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and audiobooks. But sometimes, like now, the stack grows taller. There’s the science book club selection, reading at a measured pace of one to two chapters weekly. There are the carried-over titles from previous months, quietly demanding completion. And of course, there’s the ever-growing TBR (To Be Read) pile, filled with promising new releases and recommended gems.

The Self-Imposed Pressure

While these reading deadlines are entirely self-imposed, they serve a purpose. They provide structure and motivation, pushing us to make time for reading in our busy lives. But it’s crucial to remember that missing these personal deadlines isn’t a failure – it’s simply part of the reading journey.

Making Time for Words

Finding 2-3 hours daily for reading requires strategy. Audiobooks during car rides, stolen moments between tasks, and dedicated reading time all add up. It’s about making reading a priority while acknowledging that life sometimes has other plans.

Quality Over Quantity

The real challenge isn’t just about completing books – it’s about maintaining the quality of our reading experience. Racing through pages just to meet a self-imposed deadline can rob us of the joy and depth that thoughtful reading brings. Sometimes, carrying a book over to the next month isn’t a setback; it’s a recognition that some books deserve more time to be properly appreciated.

Looking Forward

As we approach the middle of 2025, I’m learning to be more flexible with my reading goals. Yes, I want to explore more science titles, dive into recommended biographies, and keep up with new releases. But perhaps the key to a fulfilling reading life isn’t about reading everything – it’s about reading well, and finding peace with the fact that some books might have to wait their turn.

After all, isn’t the joy of having too many books to read better than having none at all?