Too Many Books Too Little Time? Here’s How to Fix It

This isn’t just a sentiment—it’s a reality many face, leading to the classic dilemma embodied by Frank Zappa’s words: “So many books, so little time.” Or as many readers have started saying “too many books too little time”.

As someone who’s spent years navigating this literary jungle, I understand the pressure and frustration that comes with wanting to read everything but feeling like there simply isn’t enough time. The key is to take control of the chaos with some simple strategies. 

For starters, consider tracking your reading; it brings a sense of achievement as you see your progress and helps in selecting what truly matters to you. 

Secondly, altering your mindset is crucial—it’s not about reading every book but about savoring each one at a time. 

Keep reading to learn some tips to regain control, and remember, the joy is in the journey, not just finishing the race.

So the question is, How many books is too many?

Honestly, there is no such thing! The idea of “too many” books is a myth because every book carries the potential to offer new insights, experiences, or simply a sweet escape. 

Instead of stressing over your to-read piles, embrace the fun and let your curiosity guide you to what feels right to read at the moment. Remember, it’s about quality and enjoyment, not about keeping score.

When reading feels like a chore

Before we jump into the tips, let’s take a moment to reflect on your reading journey. If you ever feel:  

• Unmotivated to pick up a book  
• Guilty for not finishing a read  
• Stuck in the same genre over and over  
• Picking books based on trends instead of your passions  
• Reading because you feel obligated (those classics or book club picks)  
• Pressured by social media  

Then it’s time for a mindset shift! I know you’re here because you love books, but hey, we all hit reading slumps! Even when I’m writing book lists and need to read a ton, it can get a bit much. Remember, reading should be your escape.  

If a book isn’t doing it for you, let it go! With so many books out there, why stick with one that doesn’t excite you? Dive into what brings you joy, whether it’s cheesy rom-coms or thrilling mysteries.  

Tips for creating your dream reading life

1. Create a reading routine that works 

I’ve chatted with so many fellow book lovers, and lots of people say they feel like there’s no time to read. As a mom of two young kids and a business owner juggling life’s chaos, I totally get it! By bedtime, it seems like the day’s time has vanished. 

BUT being “too busy” isn’t just about time—it’s about mindset, and with a few tweaks, we can change that.

I truly believe we all have time to read; it’s just about where our priorities land. If you want more reading in your life, dig into your current routine and find those little moments for books.

Discover those little pockets of time for reading—whether it’s before bed, in the morning, or even while waiting in the carpool line. 

You could try setting up a cozy reading ritual to make it something you really look forward to. I dive deep into this in From Busy to Bookish, but trust me, it’s completely doable to start reading more.

2. Declutter your TBR list

Having a cluttered TBR list or messy shelves (physical or digital) can feel downright overwhelming, don’t you think? 

It’s like having too many choices and no clear direction. An unfocused reading routine can add to the stress of not knowing where to start, and it can steal away those precious moments of relaxation we all crave. It’s important to take time to create an organized TBR list. I suggest using Goodreads for this.

Once you’ve got your reading list organized, you’ll easily pick out your next great read!

Take a look at your shelves and prioritize books that spark curiosity or tug at your heartstrings—those are the reads that will keep you turning pages long into the night. 

It’s perfectly okay to set aside anything that doesn’t align with your current season of life. Life’s too short to slog through books that won’t give you happiness or insight right now. Our tastes and needs evolve, and your reading should reflect that. 

Tips to create your TBR list

• List out your favorite genres: Knowing what you love helps you focus your TBR pile.
• Keep it diverse: Mix new authors with your favorite ones to keep things fresh and exciting.
• Rotate themes or topics: Maintain interest by switching up the subject matter every few books.
• Re-evaluate regularly: Periodically sort through your TBR and remove anything that no longer appeals.

3. Set boundaries for bookish communities 

Let’s talk about setting those much-needed boundaries when it comes to book clubs or reading challenges. 

It’s totally okay to limit the number of book clubs you join or to skip a reading challenge or two; this prevents that dreaded burnout from kicking in. 

Learn to say no to book recommendations that don’t spark interest or align with your reading desires at the moment. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to read everything just because it’s trending. 

Reducing time on social media can also be a game-changer in avoiding the fear of missing out (FOMO) on what others are diving into. 

Speaking of which, feel free to pass on ARCs if your current to-be-read list is already towering—you’ll get to those fantastic reads in your own time, guilt-free!

4. Read more books

Once you’ve done the steps above, it’s time to dive into more books! Here are my go-to tips for boosting your reading game:

• Mix up the formats: ebooks, physical books, and audio books.
• Try using the kindle app on your phone to sneak in more reading
• Vary the lengths: sprinkle in some novellas or tackle those hefty 500+ page reads.
• Don’t hesitate to DNF (Did Not Finish) books that don’t spark joy.
• Set a reading goal.
• Visit a local bookshop to spark reading inspiration 
• Read more than one book at a time

And remember, you can’t read everything—there are just too many books out there! You’ll miss some good books, but you’ll discover some treasures too!

FAQs about having too many books

How many books can one read in a lifetime?

The number of books one can read in a lifetime really depends on personal reading speed and dedication to the hobby. If you consistently read about one book per week, you could enjoy over 3,000 books in fifty years. 

But remember, it’s not about the numbers—it’s about finding books that fascinate, inspire, and resonate with you personally.

How do I choose what book to read next?

Choosing your next read can be as simple as going with your current mood or interest. Some people prefer to follow a reading list or prompt to guide their selection, while others might flip through a few first pages to decide. 

Is it bad to abandon a book halfway through?

Not at all! Life’s too short to spend on a book that doesn’t captivate you. If a story isn’t intriguing or if reading it feels like a chore, it’s completely okay to put it down. You can always revisit it later when you might enjoy it more.

How can I manage my TBR pile without feeling overwhelmed?

Try creating a flexible reading schedule or prioritize books you’re most excited about. Rotating between genres can also spice things up, and every now and then, it’s beneficial to reassess your list, letting go of books that no longer pique your interest.

Should I feel pressured to read what everyone else is reading?

Definitely not! Everyone has different tastes, and just because a book is popular doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Focus on what captivates or interests you personally—you’ll likely enjoy your reading time much more.

How can I find more time to read?

You can find more time to read by incorporating reading into your daily routine by setting aside specific times, like before bed or during your commute. Even short bursts of reading add up, so don’t underestimate the power of squeezing in a chapter or two whenever you have a spare moment.

Did you discover there is no such thing as too many books to read?

As you navigate the delightful maze of book possibilities, remember to embrace the joy of the journey rather than stress over the destination. 

There might never be enough hours in the day to read every book on your list, but that’s okay. Revel in the process, savoring each literary encounter as it comes. 

If you’re ready to refresh your reading habits, check out my free A to Z Reading Challenge Pack for inspiration or grab my ebook From Busy to Bookish. 

Dive into new stories, explore genres you’ve yet to discover, and renew your passion for reading. 

Happy reading!