New Year's Resolution to Read More

A few years ago, I made a long-term goal (it's on my bucket list) to read 52 books in a year. I don't expect to achieve that goal anytime soon with my current busy schedule, but I am enjoying keeping track of the books that I read and watching for upward trends year to year. In 2010, I read 1 book. In 2011, I read 4 books. My resolution/goal is to read 12 books in 2012.

I use Evernote to keep almost all of the lists in my life, so it fits well to include the list of books that I've read there too.  I make a note for each year and call it Reading List 2012. In the note, I have a list of books I have already read that year, books I'm currently reading (this part encourages me to finish books to get them off the list), and books I'd like to read next. The Upcoming list helps me when I go to the library or search online for e-books to read. My list looks something like this and lives in Evernote so that I can access it on any of my devices. You could also use the Notes app on your phone or keep it in your journal.

 --Completed--
* The Help

--In Progress--
* The Element by Ken Robinson
* The Simple Dollar by Trent Hamm     

--Upcoming--
* The Hunger Games (for book club)
* Blue Like Jazz 

I also write notes about the books so that I'll remember something I learned or enjoyed in the book. I've found that my notes have been helpful in recommending books to friends. Make a commitment to read more this year, and you'll be glad you did!

How many books are you planning to read this year?