New Year’s Resolutions You’ll Want to Keep

Do you set a New Year's resolution each year? Do you keep it? We didn't think so. A 2007 study of 3,000 people showed a massive 88% of people failed in their resolution. That's a lot of unused gym memberships (among other things).

Never fear, ThriftBooks is here to save you from an end of January failure. Here are some New Year's resolutions you'll want to keep. Why's that? They involve books and reading, of course.

Here they are. Let us know in the comments which one you've chosen for 2018.

Read More

Reading more is a favorite resolution because, well, you're reading more. More stories, more adventures, more learning. If you didn't count your 2017 to know what is more, choose a goal. Twelve means one a month. A weekly book gives an impressive 52 for 2018. Some people won't count short books (under 100 pages), and others include re-reads. Set your rules and start reading. Track your success using an online tool or a bullet journal.

Read Different

Another resolution is to break out of your reading comfort zone. If you're usually a romance reader, throw in a biography. Are Y.A. books your go-to? Try some history. Reading challenges are great prompters. Here's ours, and searching Pinterest gives more options.

Manage Your Library

Do you have book towers next to your bookcase? What about next to your bed? Yeah, we thought so. Make managing your library your New Year's resolution. It may be as simple as getting a new bookcase or keeping it tidy for all year. Which leads to…

Sharing Your Books

Everyone has those ho-hum books. They aren't bad books, but you know you're never going to re-read them. It's time to let them go to a new home that appreciates them. You can donate them to a library or charity. A fun option is a book exchange night. Invite some bookish friends (and their ho-hum books), serve snacks, and have a fun night swapping books.

Review Your Books

We all know being a book devourer can get expensive, so share your reviews to help others avoid book buying mistakes. You don't need your own website. Add them to ThriftBooks.com or book review sites.

Join or Start a Book Club

Reading is more fun with friends. There's the idea that no two people read the same book. Book club discussions give new perspectives you may not have seen alone. Plus, book clubs are social outings with friends. Win. Contact your local library for groups near you.

Become a Volunteer Reader

We know reading books early is essential for literacy and giving children the best start in life. However, lives are busy, and not all children have someone to read with. Schools and non-profits groups often need reading volunteers to simply read with children. Use your spare time to make a difference. If adults are more your comfort level check with your local refugee resettlement offices.

Read more by Bianca Smith