Category Archives: Reflection

2025 Reflections

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As 2025 comes to an end, I wanted to take some time to reflect on my reading life and the goals I set for myself this year.

One of my main goals for 2025 was to continue setting my Goodreads reading goal to one so I could focus on quality over quantity. This approach truly worked for me. Even without chasing a number, 2025 became my second-highest reading year since I started tracking my reading in 2017.

I also wanted to become more comfortable DNF’ing books that did not work for me. This year, I was much more free about putting books down even ones I had purchased. Life is too short to push through a mediocre book when there are so many great ones out there. This mindset shift helped me enjoy reading more and focus on quality rather than obligation.

Another goal was to be more mindful and selective about the books I purchased. I did not follow this as closely at the beginning of the year, but I became much more intentional with my purchases during the second half of 2025. That alone made a noticeable difference in how I approached my reading.

I also set a goal to finish my 2025 NetGalley reads before the end of the year and I am happy to say I crushed this goal by November. Clearing that list felt incredibly satisfying and removed a lot of lingering pressure.

When it came to social media and blogging, my goal was to post when I wanted to so I could avoid burnout. To be honest, I did experience burnout with both this year. With Instagram and TikTok, I allowed myself to step back and not post during those periods, which actually helped. As for my blog, I experimented quite a bit. I temporarily switched platforms, adjusted my posting format, and changed how often I post. While I still feel some burnout and am not getting the same level of satisfaction I once did, I am learning to accept that this is okay.

Looking Ahead to 2026
I am going into 2026 with more intention and less pressure. For now, that feels exactly where I need to be.

📚The Kindle Switch That Changed How I Read

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Last month, I did something I never thought I would: I traded my Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition for the Kindle Basic.

On paper, it looked like a downgrade. My Paperwhite Signature had lots of storage, warm light, waterproofing, wireless charging, and a 6.8-inch screen. I figured I would miss those features the second I let it go. But here’s the surprising part — I do not.

I never realized how little I actually used the 32gb storage and warm light. Th 16gb is more than enough and I found that I read better without the warm light. The waterproofing? Nice in theory, but I was not exactly reading in the bathtub or at the beach all the time. And the wireless charging pad? I never had a need for it since I used the cable to charge.

The real magic happened when I switched from 6.8 inches down to 6 inches. That small change made a big difference. The Kindle Basic feels lighter, more compact, and just easier to hold. I reach for it more without even thinking about it. It also fits in more of my bags as well.

And then there’s the color. I went from standard black to the soft, calming Matcha green. I didn’t think it was going to make a huge difference, but it actually changed the whole vibe. It feels more personal, more me. Now when I see it on my desk or in my bag, I want to pick it up.

The best part? The deal I got. I traded in my Paperwhite Signature and got a $30 gift card plus 20% off. I stacked that with a Prime Day discount and my credit card reward points. In the end, my Matcha Kindle Basic cost me about $30 — roughly the price of a new hardcover.

I thought I was giving up the “better” Kindle for something simpler. What I actually did was find the Kindle that fits me best. And now? I am reading more than ever.

Halfway Through 2025: Check-In & 5-Star Reads

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Why I’m Switching Things Up:
I can’t believe we’re already halfway through the year! Lately, I’ve been thinking about how I want to navigate my blog. Bookish social media has been overwhelming at times. Writing reviews and keeping up with posts can be fun, but it’s also a lot.

I’m not planning to stop, but I do want to be more intentional. From now on, I’ll be doing one post a month with something I’m excited to share, whether that’s favorites, a fun list or a reading recap.

My Favorite Reads So Far This Year
I wanted to highlight a few 2025 releases that I gave five stars and still think about:

August Lane by Regina Black

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry

Can’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan

Wild Side by Elsie Silver

If You Can’t Stand the Heat by Mona Shroff

Honorable Mention:

Shadows of You by Catherine Cowles – This one is a backlist book that’s part of the Lost & Found series. I loved the premise and it made me start getting into romantic suspense.

Looking Ahead:
Hoping this new pace helps me enjoy blogging again.

2024 Reflection & 2025 Plans

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As the year winds down, I find myself reflecting on the lessons of 2024 and setting intentions for the year ahead.

2024 Highlights & Reflections

This past year was about reflection and letting go of what no longer served me. After the burnout of 2023, I started 2024 with a slower pace, prioritizing joy and intention in my reading and personal life.

Personal Milestones

  • Reviewed every book I read on Goodreads for another year.
  • Cleared my NetGalley shelf of 2024 releases, reaching a 96% feedback ratio.

Letting Go

This year I released some commitments and habits that no longer aligned with my goals:

  • Canceled BOTM Subscription: I realized the selections weren’t appealing to me anymore and I could find the books I wanted elsewhere.
  • Disbanded My Book Club: After five years of OC Books and Brunch, organizing meetings and selecting books became more of a chore than a joy. Stepping away allowed me to reclaim reading for myself.
  • Embraced Mood Reading & DNF’ing: Without book club obligations, I could read purely for pleasure. This shift helped me refine my tastes and let go of the pressure to finish books that didn’t resonate.

Looking Ahead to 2025

In 2025, my reading goals remain the same: focusing on quality over quantity. This approach has served me well over the years, and I plan to carry it forward. Here’s to another year of growth, discovery, and leaning into what truly brings joy!