Written by Lannie Dasal
If there are two things that are inevitable every January 1st, it’s the “I haven’t seen you since last year!” joke and New Year’s Resolutions. The problem is, people quickly forget their goals for the New Year and fall into the same old habits. If you’re of the book-loving variety, your resolutions are more than likely book-related and we are here to help you achieve some goals that might be on your “New Year New Me!” list.
Read More
The first step in reading more books? Time management. There are only twenty-four hours in a day; that’s not a lot when you consider all of the important responsibilities that must be done. So, instead of spending time stalking on Instagram, spend time reading a few pages instead.
It’s important to make sure you’re genuinely interested in the book you have. Meaning: If you don’t like a book, drop it like a hot potato. Reading is for your enjoyment, so you should enjoy it. If you truly do like a novel, you’ll get through it quicker and it will push you to read others as well.
Writing a Novel
Step 1: Imagine that Rihanna song, Work.
Step 2: Replace every time she says “work” with “write.”
Step 3: Follow instructions from said edited song. Boom. You’re writing a novel.
In all seriousness, writing a novel takes real commitment and time. If you’re struck with inspiration in random bursts, use those times to plan your book. Create the characters, imagine the setting, form the plot, and outline the book that you would want to read. Then? Just write (♫ write write write write write ♫).
If you’re usually busy, designate what you can to writing. It may be a slow process, but as long as you are writing, you are making progress. If you lose the passion, look back at the outline you made or that one amazing scene that you were excited for. Fall so in love with your creation that you want the whole world to experience the finished product.
Create a Book Related Account
Many times, people don’t put themselves out there on YouTube because they don’t have the expensive equipment but fancy equipment doesn’t make a BookTube Channel, you do. Don’t overthink it, just be yourself.
Use free video editing apps, such as iMovie or Windows Live Movie Maker, to cut out any parts you don’t like. No one will judge you for being a little awkward of saying “um” a lot. Making videos is like any other art; it requires practice and repetition to get better at.
If YouTube isn’t your thing, try creating an Instagram account and follow other book nerds, it helps to see what others are reading and you’ll probably make a friend or two! Even good old Goodreads is there to help with your reading journey, set a Reading Challenge and away you go!
Defeating the TBR
You could always buy fewer books. To do that, just hang a picture of your dwindling bank account on top of your bed so that’s what you wake up to every morning.
Instead, research the books you like before you buy them. Look into the synopsis, reviews, or read a chapter sampler. If you’re still interested, then it will keep you interested even when you finally have it. But, that also means no more random cover buys. A beautiful cover does not mean always mean a beautiful story, it’s really what’s on the inside that matters.
Beware of physical bookstores as you may be tempted to gather as many books into your arms! Just remember you more than likely have plenty of books at home already and publishers believe those books are worthy of publishing and sharing with the world. Maybe you should give them a chance.
What bookish resolutions have you set this year? Let us know in the comments and happy reading bookworms!
