Dive Into a World of Books: How I Read 30+ Books Annually

Reading is more than just a hobby; it’s a journey into new worlds, an exploration of ideas, and a tool for continuous growth. For many, the idea of reading over 30 books in a year might seem daunting. However, with the right strategies, it’s not only possible but also highly enjoyable. Here’s how I manage to read 30+ books annually, and how you can too to start opening your mind to new perspectives.

The journey through life’s mysteries can be deepened through the worlds we discover between the covers of books. While time for leisure is squeezed in today’s fast paced lives, prioritizing reading provides enrichment with lasting impact. Setting clear objectives helps make the benefits more accessible.

The Simple System for Reading 30+ Books Annually

• 1. Set Clear Goals 

The first step to reading more is setting a clear, achievable goal. For me, it’s reading at least 30 books a year. This breaks down to about 2-3 books per month, which feels manageable alongside other commitments. Having a specific target keeps me motivated and gives me something to strive for throughout the year. Goals give structure and incentive to continue feeding one’s passions.

Tip: Start with a realistic goal based on your current reading habits, and gradually increase it as you build momentum. Small successes breed enthusiasm for higher aims over time.

• 2. Create a Reading Schedule

Consistency is key to achieving any goal, and reading is no exception. I carve out specific times each day dedicated solely to reading. Whether it’s 30 minutes in the morning with my coffee or an hour before bed, having a set routine helps me stay on track. Regular practice transforms an occasional activity into an ongoing source of enrichment.  

In addition to daily routines, I also schedule larger blocks for reading on weekends when time is more flexible. This allows diving deeper into longer or more complex works. 

Tip: Identify pockets of time in your day where you can consistently fit in reading. Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a big difference over time, supporting absorption and reflection on life’s myriad topics.

• 3. Always Have a Book on Hand

One of the easiest ways to increase your reading time is to always have a book with you. I carry a book or e-reader wherever I go, which allows me to read during unexpected free moments—like waiting in line, during commutes, or in between meetings. Keeping reading material nearby opens doors for continual learning and enjoyment amid everyday interruptions. 

Tip: If you prefer digital reading, apps like Kindle or Audible make it easy to access your books on your smartphone, so you’re never without something stimulating to peruse. Technology supports bringing our personal libraries into any environment.

• 4. Mix Up Your Reading List  

Diversity in reading keeps things interesting and prevents burnout. I mix up my reading list with different genres, lengths, and formats. This variety keeps me engaged and excited about what I’m reading next. Alternating between types, styles authors refreshes perspective and challenges preconceptions, promoting insightful consideration beyond any single area.

Tip: Consider alternating between fiction and non-fiction, or between heavier reads focusing depth of theme and lighter, more entertaining books for a change of pace. This balance keeps reading enjoyable and ensures you’re always in the mood to pick up your next selection.

• 5. Embrace Audiobooks

Audiobooks have become a game-changer in my reading routine. They allow me to « read » while doing other activities, such as driving, exercising, or doing household chores. This additional method of consuming books has significantly increased the number of books I can finish each year. Audible access means guided journeys into other minds supplement quiet contemplation.

Tip: If you’re new to audiobooks, start with genres or authors you already enjoy. Narrators can make or break an audiobook, so find a few whose voices and styles resonate with you and draw you deeply within each tale. 

Making Reading a Pleasurable Habit

• 6. Join a Reading Community

Being part of a book club or online reading community can add a social aspect to your reading habit. I’ve found that discussing books with others not only deepens my understanding but also introduces me to books I might not have discovered on my own. Shared exploration amplifies private experience of text. 

Tip: Look for book clubs in your local area or join online communities like Goodreads, where you can track your reading, join challenges, and connect with other book lovers. Fellowship among those enthralled by the written word takes solitary indulgence to new heights.

• 7. Track Your Progress

There’s something satisfying about seeing how much you’ve accomplished. I keep a reading log where I track the books I’ve read, along with any notes or thoughts about them. This not only helps me remember what I’ve read but also motivates me to keep going. Visualizing advancement spurs continued commitment.

Tip: Use a journal, a spreadsheet, or an app like Goodreads to log your books. Consider setting mini-goals within your larger annual goal, like finishing a certain number of books each month. Objectives facilitate forward momentum through discipline and delight. 

• 8. Let Go of Guilt  

One of the biggest obstacles to reading more is feeling guilty about not finishing a book that doesn’t capture your interest. I’ve learned to let go of this guilt. If a book isn’t engaging me, I move on to something else. Life is too short to read books that don’t bring you joy or value. Respect your inner compass.

Tip: Give yourself permission to abandon books that aren’t resonating with you. There’s no shame in putting a book down if it means you’ll spend more time reading something you love. Trusting your intrinsic responds cultivates a reading rhythm in synchronicity with your authentic self.

• 9. Incorporate Reading into Your Routine 

Reading doesn’t have to be a separate activity; it can be integrated into your daily life. I’ve made reading part of my routine—whether it’s reading a chapter during lunch or winding down with a book instead of watching TV at night. Weaving reading amidst responsibilities makes it an instinctive practice.

Tip: Replace some of your screen time with reading time. Even 15-20 minutes less of scrolling social media or watching TV can free up significant time for reading each day. Small shifts compound substantially over months.

• 10. Make Reading a Priority  

Ultimately, reading more books each year comes down to making it a priority. I’ve made the conscious decision to prioritize reading because it’s something I enjoy and value. By treating it as an essential part of my day, rather than an afterthought, I’m able to achieve my reading goals consistently. Commitment to meaningful activities sustains quality of days.

Tip: Reflect on why you want to read more and remind yourself of these reasons whenever you feel your motivation slipping. Making reading a priority in your life will naturally lead to more time spent immersed in the worlds of books.  

Conclusion

Reading 30+ books a year is an attainable goal if you approach it with the right mindset and strategies. By setting clear goals, creating a sustainable reading routine, cultivating literary diversity, and adaptively weaving reading throughout your life, you can confidently reach this aspiration and unlock the bountiful pleasures that await within every cover. Whether revisiting old favorites or venturing into uncharted territories of thought, a structured yet inspired reading practice promises lifelong enrichment.