Living With B

I did it. I actually hit my reading goal for 2025. The little number on Fable has been taunting me since January, and now I am exceeding that goal.

But once the excitement settles, there’s this weird moment of… okay, so what now?

Because here’s the thing: goals are fun to chase. They give you structure, motivation, a little hit of dopamine every time you log a new book. But once you reach the finish line, you’re suddenly standing there holding your medal like, “Do I keep running, or do I go sit down?”

For me, I’ve realized there are a few different paths you can take once you’ve crushed your reading goal:

Raise the Goal

This works well if you like to be competitive with yourself. If you thrive on numbers, nothing is stopping you from bumping your goal up a bit. Maybe you aimed for 25 books and got there by September, what’s stopping you from shooting for 35? Or even 50 if you’re bold?

This only works if it excites you! Reading shouldn’t feel like a punishment. If upping the goal feels like homework… don’t do it.

Shift the Goal to What You’re Reading, Not How Much

The closer we get to the end of the year, the more the number becomes the focus. Suddenly, we’re looking for short, easy reads that keep the counter moving. But with our goal met, the pressure is off. This is the perfect time to start those chunky books on your tbr!

That 1,000-page thriller you’ve been putting off? That classic you keep saying you’ll read “someday”? It their time to shine!

Curate a Theme for the Rest of the Year

Instead of chasing number, what if we picked a vibe? A “dark academia” reading list. A “nostalgic childhood favorites” list. Or maybe something like “books with yellow covers.” Turn it into little projects to keep things fresh without the stress over a deadline.

Reread Old Favorites

Hot take: rereading counts. Honestly, some books hit different when you’re older, wiser and in a new life season. Going back to comfort reads can feel like catching up with old friends. Or maybe rereading books you hated reading in high school can give you new perspective.

Take a Break (Yes, Seriously)

Sometimes hitting your goal can make your brain go “Okay, we’re done here.” And that’s fine! Burnout is real, and that looming reading slump is bound to hit. Step away, binge a show, play a cozy game, and touch some grass. The books will wait for you.

What About My Plan

Personally, I am still going strong even past my goal. I am trying to get through my shortlist for 2025, but ended up starting a Fall Shortlist which I will be starting on Sept 22, the first day of fall. I’m not ready to put down the books yet, but will probably take a break soon.

Final Thoughts

Hitting a reading goal is great, but it’s not the point. The point is the stories you discover, the characters who stick with you, and the way books sneak into your real life when you least expect it.

So… if you’ve hit your goal too, congratulations. Now go figure out what you actually want out of reading, beyond the numbers.

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