My Fave Reads of 2023!

Entering 2023, I set a goal for myself to read 45 books by the end of the year! If anything, this year has taught me that each season has its ebbs and flows. I started off the year strong in my reading game (I even read 9 books in one month!), but then had some major life changes happen mid-year that caused my reading game to slow down quite a bit. After that, I was struggling to even finish one book in a single month. And going into the final month of 2023, I still needed to finish 5 more books to reach my goal of 45. I felt so defeated.

Looking back, how I felt was completely valid, but also quite silly. We are truly our biggest competitors! No one was upset or making fun of the fact that I was reading at a slow pace. And y'all, life is hard enough. Why do we also have to become our own enemy? And why do I need to take something that brings me peace and that I love, reading, and make it into a task or chore? Doesn't that defeat the reason behind reading for fun in the first place?

So, with that being said, 2023 has taught me to be kind to myself. To root for myself. To advocate for myself. To know when it's a 9 book kind of month versus a 1 book kind of month. To sit back, applaud myself, and remind myself how strong I am and to love on myself for all that my body has carried me through thus far. All we can do is try our best and that is enough.

So, no matter how your reading journey looked this year, take it easy on yourself! Take a look back at this year and commend yourself for all you've accomplished and carried! If you're year was anything like mine, then you had quite the year.

So, as I write this silly little blog post on New Year's Eve, I can proudly say that with the help of a short story written by Christina Lauren, and the encouragement of my friends, I was able to reach my goal of 45 books this year!

*cue confetti and pop champagne*

Cheers to you friend! Cheers to a new year of growth, love, and becoming the best versions of ourselves! Sending so much love and all the good vibes (always) your way.

XOXO,

Andrea

@MapuaMade