Every January, we start the year with great intentions. We promise ourselves we’ll read more, scroll less, cut out sugar, fit in a daily walk, and live a more balanced life. But somewhere between work, family, and that irresistible “next episode” button, our resolutions fade faster than we’d like to admit. 

The problem isn’t that you can’t stick to your goals; it’s that most resolutions rely on willpower (and if your list is like ours, that means a lot of willpower) instead of excitement. But this year, let’s just tackle the reading goal more. It’s so much more fun, and it takes care of scrolling too much and living a more balanced life! 

Here at Once Upon a Book Club, we have the fail-proof solution: our book subscription box. It’s the one resolution you’ll actually want to keep. With Once Upon a Book Club’s Book Subscription Boxes, you don’t have to force motivation; it arrives right at your doorstep, with whimsical packaging, a newly released novel, and those famous surprise gifts.

 

Why Most New Year's Resolutions Fail

If we take a peek back to January 2025 and are really honest with ourselves, we’ll see that most of our resolutions failed because we tried to start running a marathon, and we forgot to add that important ingredient: joy.

It doesn’t matter whether it’s dieting, budgeting, or finally organizing the closet; the novelty wears off quickly when things feel like a chore. Reading goals are no exception. Without a plan—or worse, with an unrealistic one—it’s easy to burn out before February. 

Studies show that resolutions are more likely to stick when they’re tied to existing habits and pleasure rather than obligation.² That’s where “habit stacking” comes in: pair your new reading habit with something you already love, like your morning coffee or nightly wind-down. And with a new OUABC box landing on your doorstep each month, reading becomes the highlight of your routine instead of another box to check.

 

Build a Reading Routine That Lasts

Monthly Book Box to Build a Reading Habit

Think of your monthly OUABC delivery as your built-in accountability partner. The excitement of unboxing and discovering your next favorite read, along with those beautifully wrapped surprise gifts, makes reading irresistible. 

Each box is designed to engage all your senses, combining surprise and storytelling to turn reading into a ritual of self-care. Instead of trying to force time for books, you’ll find yourself making time for them. 

And the best part of a book box subscription is that you don’t have to do anything, not even choose a book. No decision fatigue this year! It’s not just reading; it’s an experience that brings the book to life, no matter where you are.

 

How to Start Reading Again as an Adult

For many adults, reading used to be a joy that slowly got replaced by busyness and burnout. Between phones, work, and stress, it’s easy to lose that spark. The good news is that getting back into reading doesn’t mean starting big; it means starting small. 

Choose stories that make you feel something rather than ones you think you should read. In other words, read books you enjoy. If you loved fantasy as a teen, get your spark back with a Young Adult Book Subscription Box. Craving an escape from everyday chaos? Then our Adult Book Subscription Box is the perfect option with its wide variety of genres. 

The key is consistency, not intensity. Create your very own reading cue with a cup of tea and a blanket, and let it be your signal to unwind. Soon, reading won’t feel like a resolution; it’ll feel like me-time.

Reading Trackers + Quick Wins

If you’re a list lover, there’s nothing more satisfying than tracking your progress on a reading tracker or using a reading journal. Start simple; there is no need for highly intellectual analysis. Jot down what resonates with you. 

 

 

Never underestimate the power of “quick wins.” Reading short books, novellas, or even a single chapter a night helps build momentum. Every small step counts, and the satisfaction of progress is what keeps you coming back for more. Think of your reading journal or tracker as a mini celebration; each book checked off is a reminder that you’re following through on a resolution that actually feels good.

Reading Challenges (with Prizes!)

If you thrive on structure, create your own reading challenge or join ours! A reading challenge is the ultimate motivator, just don’t forget to reward yourself! 

We’re thinking massages, a spa morning, a cappuccino and cake at the coffee shop you’ve always wanted to try, a Saturday morning spent discovering new bookstores, or a dinner with a friend. We would be totally remiss if we didn’t point out that our boutique has heavenly bookish products that every bookworm needs!

Reading Instead of Scrolling

Let’s face it, we all know that screens have a way of stealing our time and energy. Did you know that the average adult spends more than three hours a day on their phone, yet still complains there’s no time to read?¹ Just imagine if you replaced 15 of those minutes with a book. 

We all know that reading is good for us. It fuels your imagination, lowers stress levels, and helps you unwind after a long day. So instead of doomscrolling before bed, open a book, light a candle, and read one chapter. You’ll not only fall asleep faster but also feel more rested and fulfilled. It’s time to make the shift from digital fatigue to meaningful relaxation.

 

Your New Year Reading Goals

Setting a reading goal doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, the simpler the plan, the more likely you are to stick with it. Start small with something achievable, like “12 books in 12 months” or “15 minutes of reading each night.” The key is to create a structure that feels flexible and fun rather than rigid and demanding. 

Write your goals down in a notebook or journal; seeing them in your own handwriting gives them a little extra power. You can even divide them into categories: “Books I Already Own,” “New Releases I Want to Try,” and “Genres I Want to Explore.” 

Pair your goals with a monthly book box. Yes, one new story each month means one new opportunity to keep your reading resolution on track. And remember, the best goals aren’t about perfection or numbers, they’re about the joy of discovering stories that make you feel something, learn something, or see the world a little differently.

The Resolution That Reads Back

Book box subscriptions are everyone’s bookish best friend. They never let you down, they’re packed with exciting stories and those wonderful surprise gifts, all beautifully wrapped!

Make 2026 the year to fall back in love with the simple pleasure of turning a page. Subscribe to a Once Upon a Book Club Box today and let the fun begin.

For even more inspiration, visit Why a Book Subscription Box Is the Perfect New Year’s Treat and discover how small habits can lead to the biggest transformations.