How I did it: In summer 2009 I began using books as a coping mechanism for depression. In the sullen and isolated comfort of my bedroom, I watched Paul Sheldon endure endless pain under the "care" of Annie Wilkes. I pondered the alluring fate of the Lisbon sisters along with the neighbourhood boys. I loyally attended Hogwarts with more enthusiasm than I did my own schools.

It helped make me feel again. It was only after I'd been reading all summer that I began to blabber on with actual animation (the Deathly Hallows is still a favourite conversational piece of mine). I was excited for the first time in almost a year. It seemed like I cared again.

Although I did blow through two books on January 1st alone, I didn't have a goal of reading any set amount until about halfway through the month, which was when I (completely by chance) stumbled upon Goodreads.

I was amazed that there was an entire website dedicated to books the way that Goodreads is. I set up an account and began tracking my progress on the books I was reading, marking the books I wanted to read and rating the ones I already had. I practically stayed up the entire night without even realizing it.

I soon found groups where people were tracking the books they'd read so far in 2010, with the goal of reaching at least 50. I liked the idea of that, and thought I could do it too.

It took me a bit longer than I'd wanted, but there were several days where I didn't feel like reading. Not to mention the books that ended up being an absolute chore to get through. But I'm beyond happy to have completed this goal. I feel much more well read and have discovered so many fantastic books and writers. I'm happy to love something again, and to have a passion for it. I hope that one day my writing might have the same effect on someone.

Lessons & tips:

• Setting aside time specifically for reading really helps.
• Try not to have distractions.
• Library cards/Bookstore discount cards/Used Book stores/eBay are a staple for this goal.
• Bring your book with you! I ended up getting a lot of reading done while I was out and about.
• Keep an open mind! I read whatever book I had available to me. I never wanted to read a Nora Roberts book, but I did. I also celebrated Children's Book Week back in May, and read a bunch of Young Adult fiction. It's good to have variety!

Resources:

• Goodreads - Favourite website, other than 43Things, of course.
• Bookstores - Mainly Used.
• Books!
• A permanent and insatiable love for literature.

Good luck and happy reading!

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Dec 16, 2010, 04:02PM PST | 4 comments | 18 cheers