I’ve always had a sticky relationship with book goals and Goodreads challenges. Since becoming a bookstagrammer in particular, I find myself comparing my book counts to others, wondering why I can’t reach the same goals.

Not anymore, folks.

In 2022, I plan on not setting a number goal. I am just going to read and see what happens.

With a baby on the way in 7 short weeks, I know that life as I know it will change. Will I be able to read 50-70 books like I usually do? Who knows? I plan to read a lot during my maternity leave (print and audiobooks), but the last thing I want to do is pressure myself and then come to resent my favorite hobby.

Ever since I was a little girl, reading has been my escape. While other kids played outside, I was indoors reading The Chronicles or Narnia, or under a hammock reading the newest Harry Potter book. I have such fond memories of reading as a child…and as an adult! I have met some wonderful friends through my love of reading, and that won’t change if I read 50 books or 20 books!

So, my bookish goals for 2022 are simple: I want to read books and I want to read books I enjoy. I want to expand my bookshelf to include more diverse authors across all genres, particularly first-person narratives. I want to take time researching a book and its author before auto buying. I want to ask myself, “am I really interested in this book, or am I just getting it because it’s hyped on the internet?” before purchasing. I want to enjoy reading and tracking my books on a new app, The Storygraph. I want to talk about books and write about books on my blog. So, I will do just that!

What are your bookish plans for 2022? Do you have a reading goal set? Share in the comments below.

And, please share book recommendations!