100 Books, 365 Days, 1 Woman's Journey
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This year, I decided to participate in the #100bookchallenge. As we speak, I’m at 93 books which is “6 books ahead of schedule” according to Goodreads (click the link to see my list of books) - and I still have a month and a half to go. I don’t tell you this to brag but to celebrate a variety of “wins,” personal reflections, and inspire you in your own goal setting - not only did I pick a goal and stick to it, but I also learned a lot (mostly about myself) along the way.
Why?
I’ve been asked that a lot - “why?” Why 100 books? Why this year? Why would you put yourself through that? Haha.
Why 100 books? I don’t really know beyond peer pressure, I guess. Honestly, I never gave it a ton of thought. It was “the thing to do” and it sounded impressive. If anything, I just thought “That’s pretty much 2 books a week - one fiction, one non fiction. I can do that.” And it was decided.
Why this year? Well, I’m an avid reader. I love to read. I’ve been teased for being a book addict. (Probably true). I’ve even made myself sick due to the lack of sleep while reading a series. But, the thing is - I had quit reading. I had quit reading for fun - for reasons like “there’s more important things to do” (check out Brene’ Brown’s Power of Vulnerability for more on this) - and I had stopped reading to learn - which I’m sure had a lot to do with my self-esteem and perception around my own (lack of) intelligence. You see, life has been a bit stressful the last few years and I hadn’t been taking great care of myself. Reading seemed like a low pressure, fun way to reclaim a piece of myself and pick myself up.
Why would I do this to myself? That’s the thing…I didn’t see it as a punishment at all. In all fairness, I probably should have picked a more reasonable and attainable goal - 100 books was likely setting myself up for failure - but I’m super glad I did it. And with only a few books to go and several in progress, I’m certain I’ll finish!
What does this have to do with you? Well, whether you are a reader, participate in challenges, set goals, struggle with self-esteem or vulnerability, or whatever, I think it’s important to ask yourself “why” every once in a while. What is at the root of your choice, decision, or indecision. In other words, this is your call to awareness and noticing. Why do you do the things you do? And those you don’t?
What did I learn?
Of course I learned a ton from the nonfiction books I read, as well as some of the historical fiction. But, more importantly, I learned a lot about myself.
I’m a pretty slow reader. I can read faster, but I like to savor. every. little. last. word. Even if I glanced ahead or picked up in the wrong spot and now knew what was to come, I’d still go back and read the sections I missed. And I adore that about myself.
I like YA historical fiction. When I started the challenge, I had a lot of shame around the number of young adult items on my list. But then I unpacked that and realized: yes, I do like them because they are fast and easy. So what? I also love how strong and empowered the female characters are. And I really love how the author gets to the point – no extraneous fluff here! And the best part is, the “romance” is minimal and palatable. Which I appreciate.
I set really big goals for myself. Still processing through the why of this one.
I “need” to be held accountable. Knowing that “people know” keeps me from quitting stuff. This isn’t a good thing, but awareness is so healing.
It’s ok to quit. Sometimes a book just isn’t a good fit. Regardless of how great it sounded, the title would look on your list, or how many hours you’ve already dedicated to it, it isn’t worth it. Let it go.
It’s ok to rest. Some weeks I’d read tons of books. Others none. We can talk about balance all day long (and there’s a time and place for that too) but ebb and flow is ok too. One awareness I had was how much I use reading to avoid stress, and life in general sometimes. This awareness was so healing for my self-talk, coping skills, and relationships.
My love of reading is good for my whole family. I am raising the most reading-est kids EVER. Ok, maybe not, but they do love it. They are easily bribed with books and have more books than toys on their Christmas lists. And my husband reads more too.
Tips
If you are looking to create your own reading challenge, I’ve got some additional tips and thoughts for you:
Always have more than one book going at a time. Sometimes you’re in the mood to learn and study, and sometimes you need something light and breezy. Have options.
Don’t be afraid to “quit.” Whether it’s a book, author, or the challenge all together, listen to your body.
Mix it up. Print-digital-audio, youth-YA-fiction-nonfiction, historical-romance-educational, work-fun-skills. It keeps you going.
It all counts. Short stories, reading to your kids, audio books in the car. It’s all good. No judgment.
Unexpected Outcomes
One of the biggest things I didn’t expect to come from my book challenge was a heightened sense of self-awareness and gratitude. I didn’t realize all the little ways I was judging my reading journey but, by digging in deep with books, I was able to shed light on so many of those false stories I have and re-write them. It also lead me to revisit my own book and the concept of being your own first student. I’ve since revisited so many of my own workbooks and programs and re-learned some important stuff. But my guided journal is still one of my best works because it works in layers. There is always more to do, deeper you can dig, new awarenesses that will surface. If you participate in ANY of my work, I highly recommend you start here.
When I initially published Cultivating Gratitude, I approached all of my local bookstores about carrying it and they happily took it in. With this updated version, I decided to approach local gifts shops as well who are also thrilled to add it to their inventory. If you are looking to raise your own self-awareness, this book is for you. And if you are looking for a great gift item for friends, hostesses, teachers, and the like, consider a copy of Cultivating Gratitude as a way to share your appreciation.
Of course, Cultivating Gratitude is always available directly from me via my own website, and if you are looking to buy in bulk (5 books or more), you will get the best deal there. However, at the moment I’m currently sold out (I’m still accepting orders and will fulfill them ASAP after my next shipment arrives December 4th).
If you aren’t local, and have Prime shipping, Amazon is your best bet! And if you have a B&N gift card, head on over to the Barnes & Noble website.
But, if you are local, please shop local! Copies are still available at Hearthfire Books & Treats in Evergreen and Page Turner Bookstore in Conifer, but now you can also stop by these other great locations to stock up as well
Where the Books Go in Evergreen has an amazing collection of new and used books!!! Bonus - their self-help and spirituality sections are huge and the used books are super affordable! They also offer workshops, have a meeting space available, and a selection of make-and-take crafts. Oh, and free coffee!
If you’re in Bailey, stop by one of the Fun & Funky Gallery locations, a local artisan market and gift shop. They feature Colorado artists, have a fascinating assortment of gifts, and also offer taffy, fudge and coffee! Yum!
Eudaimonia, in Indian Hills, is such a gift to our community with a true mind, body, spirit approach to fitness! If you haven't been in, check it out! I’ve personally enjoyed their aerial yoga program and my kids love their open gym!
And last, but certainly not least, is a Borgata in Conifer. This fun “village market” is always a treat. Their items are all handcrafted by artisans from all over Colorado; including local specialty foods, photography, jewelry, and gifts of all kinds.
