Bookish Aspirations for 2024

Last year was a bit of a reading rollercoaster for me, clocking in at just 16 books, and sadly, most of my anticipated reads gathered dust. Let's hit the reset button.

#1 — Embrace into Intuitive Reading

Collaborating with Penguin Random House South Africa and Pan Macmillan was a blast, but the influx of Advanced Reader Copies (my fault) meant my already overwhelmed, burnt out self had more deadline stress. Instead of rising to the occasion, I avoided reading altogether.

Lesson learned: I'm in my mood reader era.

This year, it's all about reading based on my current vibe, breaking free from strict TBR lists, and savouring books aligned with my mood. No more guilt about putting a book down if it doesn't click. Choosing my next read based on how I feel at the moment has not only kicked the reading slump but led me down unexpected literary paths.

I still want to partner with publishers and authors this year, however, I need to be much more circumspect with the ARCs I commit to review and promote.

No guilt, no forced finishes – just me, the book, and wherever the mood takes me.

#2 — Conquer Two Physical Books Monthly

As a freelance copywriter and social media manager, my world is dominated by screens. Thus, the tactile allure of physical books beckons. Striking a balance between audiobooks and tangible pages, I aim to indulge in the undistracted pleasure of holding a book. Beyond the aesthetic joy of a filled bookshelf, reading in its traditional form provides a relief from the digital whirlwind. Over the last month, I've been embracing the quiet peace of flipping through pages. I try to reach for a book rather than my phone when I wake up, starting my day with serenity and calm rather than YouTube or LinkedIn.

It's become too much, and I feel an increasing pull away from the digital toward.

#3 — Achieve 52 Books in 2024

In 2024, I'm throwing down the gauntlet – 52 books, one for each week. More than a number, it's a commitment to exploring diverse realms of fiction and non-fiction. This challenge isn't just about quantity; it's about the joy, relaxation, and expanding perspectives that each book brings. Join me on this literary journey, and let's swap tales in the comments.

Your turn – what literary escapades await you this year? Share your goals in the comments.