To Read or Not to Read…

Usually, when people understand how much you like reading, you’ll get a deluge of book recommendations. Most everyone has a favorite book, and they want you to read it – and preferably validate their choice. You also might have an enthusiastic coworker who loves to read and started a book club (yes, that’s me), and who constantly shares book recommendations company-wide. Your TBR pile probably contains more books than you can read in the foreseeable future.

But what happens when you start a book, and you’re not feeling it? Do you push through? Or do you cut your losses and end it?

… That is the question.

To Read

You need to push through and finish some books, like for school or even for work. It might take you longer, especially if you’re trying to retain what you’re reading. Even if you’re not initially smitten with the content, continuing to read might be for the best. Some books, especially the first one or two in a series, might be much slower and have more world-building in the early parts, making it worthwhile to slog through the drier pages. Other books (typically non-fiction) are dull, but you’ll get valuable nuggets of information to help you learn and grow by staying with it.

Not to Read

Despite the reasons to continue reading a book you dislike, I’m an advocate for quitting while ahead. There are so many books to read; if you’re not enjoying one, move on to the next! When deciding to abandon a book, a few things usually come into play:

Most of us weren’t raised to quit things. We were told to “stick it out” and “suck it up.” Is that invisible script running in your mind? If so, tell it to shut up about quitting a book (and probably other things, but that’s a different post).

FOMO – or what if syndrome. We always worry we might miss out on something good. “What if something awesome happens?” or “What if this is the best book that no one knows about yet?” or “What if people think I’m dumb because I haven’t read it.” Those what-ifs are your insecurities and your ego popping up to get the better of your reasoned mind.

Goodreads Reviews – lately, I’ve enjoyed checking Goodreads for reviews when I start to wonder if the book I’m reading might not be a good fit. You’ll find several people who have already posted with similar sentiments most of the time. It’s critical not to get swept up in confirmation bias and only look for similar views. However, if you’re looking for a gut-check of “this book is terrible, right?” then Goodreads will help you make that final decision to read or not to read.

When in doubt, my favorite rule of thumb is: subtract your age from the first 100 pages (non-fiction) or 200 pages (fiction). For me, If I don’t want to keep reading by page 65 or page 165, I’m done with that book.

At the end of the day, you’re reading for pleasure. If the book you’re reading isn’t bringing some level of enjoyment, then stop reading it. Nothing will happen if you finish the book or if you quit the book – the world will keep turning. Happy reading!