An Aha! Moment for My Reading Life

After my post a few weeks ago where I was being real about my reading life (see HERE), I received emails from some of you offering support and nods of agreement. I even received some advice about how to plan out time to read and make it a priority which I really appreciated.

Then yesterday while driving, I was listening to a podcast, What Should I Read Next, and heard a quote that I have since been playing over and over in my head....

I schedule my reading time, but not the books I read.

This was part of a conversation that Anne Bogel was having with her guest, Sarah Mackenzie. Check out their chat, HERE. 

I found this to be such an "Aha! Moment". I think that is where I am struggling. I feel bound by deadlines and schedules and it no longer makes reading fun, which is exactly what Sarah Mackenzie talked about. Reading should be fun and not feel like homework. Yes, it is kind of like a job for me and I will have some books that I must schedule out for my paid gig. But, I really want to release the pressure of other people dictating what I am going to read next. I just want to read what feels right at the moment. I know publishers and marketing agents want you to post reviews when a book comes out. But isn't it great to have some reviews sprinkled out? It's kind of spreads the love out over the course of a few months rather than a bunch of reviews all at once, right? 

I frankly have hardly read at all since I finished two really great books, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS and SMALL GREAT THINGS. After reading a great book, I have good book let-down and worry the next one won't match up. Nothing sounds good to me and when I try one and don't get sucked in by the first chapter I give up. 

But, I've also been swamped in my regular life. Being a mom, a substitute teacher, a post-prom chair, volunteer, and wife doesn't leave much free time for reading.  

On November 1, I started Whole30. This also takes a lot of my time planning out meals and preparing them. But, this was important to me for my health and well-being and I've made it a priority this month. Day 18 today and I'm feeling awesome!

So, I'll be thinking over this "Aha! Moment" from yesterday and the advice I received from some people I admire. I'll be posting a lot less from here til the end of the year. Basketball season begins next week with two nights a week spent at the basketball court, plus usually at least one concert a week during this holiday season. Throw in some shopping, decorating, and spending time with family in there as well and I'm about maxed out. I'm just not going to stress myself out and only do what I feel I can get done. 

I have a couple year-end posts planned and will have some great children's books to share with you over the next few weeks. Otherwise, we'll see what I get around to related to book reviews. 

Thanks for understanding and hanging around here. I appreciate you and hope your Thanksgiving reminds you of everything you have to be grateful for. I'm grateful for you!