HOW TO TACKLE YOUR TBR PILE

This is the question that I typically get from folks when I tell them how many books I’ve read so far. I always start with the disclaimer that I’m a fast reader. So, it’s very easy for me, when I have the time and not in a reading slump, to read at least 2 books in a day. But since this isn’t a trait that everyone has, I usually share 4 things that can help you tackle your TBR pile.

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WHAT IS A TBR PILE?

A TBR pile is an abbreviation for a ‘to be read’ pile. It’s a term many book lovers use to refer to their extensive list of books they have yet to read. As an avid reader, my current TBR pile has at least 22 books on it. 😅 I always find a new book that I just have to read while the other books in the pile stare at me in confusion like ‘what about me?!’

HOW TO TACKLE YOUR TBR PILE

HAVE A DEDICATED TIME TO READ EVERYDAY

Creating a schedule or adding it to your calendar is one way to tackle your TBR pile. Let’s be honest: Everyone is overscheduled, so you need to make time for reading if that’s something you want to do. If that means putting it on your calendar, then do it. My reading time is in the evening until it’s time for bed. If it’s the weekend or a day I don’t have much to do, I pick up a book and read.

READ MULTIPLE BOOKS AT ONCE

This might not be something that everyone enjoys, but reading multiple books at once helps you move through and tackle your TBR pile. I’m currently reading two books. Whenever I need a break from one, I pick up the other and go back and forth until they are both finished.

PICK BOOKS THAT YOU ACTUALLY WANT TO READ

Reading is personal. That means you don’t have to read books you don’t want to. I know people out there judge you based on the books you read (I’ve gotten that a lot from nonfiction readers when I share my joy for reading murder mysteries). But I’m of the mindset that people should read what they want. If you’re reading as a hobby, it shouldn’t feel like a chore every time you pick up a book. If you love spicy romance books, read them all! If you’re a self-help book person, find every one that helps you when you read! There’s so much pain and hurt in this world. Can we please just let people enjoy the things that bring them joy (as long as it’s not harming anyone)!?

TRY A DIFFERENT FORMAT

For me, I love to hold a physical book and read. While I haven’t tried it, I just don’t think a Kindle or audiobook will work for me reading-wise. However, you may stay motivated and finish books through a different format like audiobooks or a Kindle.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO TACKLE YOUR TBR PILE?