We all know Christmas is about being together, gifting, perhaps some over-indulgence, and watching something on the box (or, more likely, streaming a festive favourite).
But it also gives us some great quality time away from the hustle and bustle, so why not use this opportunity to make your plans for 2026? And why not incorporate reading into your New Year’s resolutions?
At Happydesigner, we love reading, but we know we could always read more, so here are our top tips for how and why it will be good to get your nose into a book. It’s our spin on the traditional New Year’s goals.
Goal 1: I want to get healthier and fitter!
This is an old favourite, and why there is usually a rush to join a gym at the start of January. But well-being is about mental fitness as well as physical fitness. Reading can be a fantastic stress reducer, calming your mind and improving sleep quality – both vital components of overall health. Even better, if your goal is to understand nutrition or find new workout routines, there are countless books to guide you.
Goal 2: I want to advance my career or learn a new skill
Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, looking to switch industries, or wanting to master a new skill like learning a language or how to make fantastic bread, books are your friend! Experts have poured their hearts, souls and knowledge into creating the pages of millions, and millions of books. If you want advice, a ‘how to’ manual, or to understand an experience first-hand, then look no further than the shelves of your local book shop or library.
Goal 3: I want to be better off
From budgeting basics to investing in bitcoin, the world of personal finance can seem daunting. But guess what? There’s a book that answers every financial question you might have. Want tips on how to save? There’s a book. Looking for advice on investing in the stock market? There’s a book. Wondering how those entrepreneurs found success? They’ve all written books and biographies. Reading will give you a greater understanding, helping you to make more informed financial decisions.
Goal 4: I want to spend less time on screen and more time in the real world
It’s so easy to get lost in doom-scrolling, isn’t it? Well, here’s the antidote: put away your smartphone and tablet, and pick up a book. Reading is an immersive experience that demands your focus, pulling you away from the distractions of ping notifications. Make a New Year’s resolution to swap some of your screen time for reading, and you’ll reap huge benefits in terms of improved focus and calm.
Goal 5: I want to travel and enjoy new experiences
While nothing beats actual travel, books can offer a pretty good alternative way to explore the world from your armchair. Historical fiction can transport you to ancient civilisations, travelogues can inspire your next adventure, and novels set in different countries can offer real insight into diverse cultures and perspectives. Expand your horizons before you even pack your bags. And of course, when you do head off, remember to put a book or two in your suitcase.
Making reading a real resolution
So, how do you make reading a sustainable resolution? Here are our tips:
- Start small: Don’t aim for 50 books if you currently read one a year. Start with one book a month, or even reading for 15 minutes a day. There are lots of apps out there that will help you track your reading, so you can build a positive reading habit.
- Read what you enjoy: Not every book is for everyone. Explore different genres – fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, sci-fi, fantasy, thrillers, romances – until you find what you like. There’s no rule that says you have to read War and Peace!
- Join a book club: This is a great way to make you stick to your resolution, because you’ll be accountable. Plus, discussing a book you have read makes it even more enjoyable.
- Visit your library: Free books! Say no more…
- Embrace audiobooks: If traditional reading isn’t your thing, audiobooks are a fantastic alternative, and are especially good if you want to while away the time when you are commuting, exercising, or doing chores.
So for 2026, don’t just set reading as a resolution – stick to it! Here’s to a year filled with new knowledge, inspiring stories, and achieving every goal you set your mind to!
What books are you planning to read in the New Year? We’d love to know.
And of course, if you have an idea for a children’s book and are looking for top-notch illustration and design, then why not call on the Happydesigner team? We can certainly put down our books and give you a hand.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a fantastic, book-filled 2026.
