Reading challenges are a fantastic way to add structure, variety, and excitement to your reading routine. Whether you’re trying to get out of a reading slump or explore new genres, a monthly challenge can keep you motivated and engaged.
In this post, we’ll show you how to use your reading journal to plan, track, and reflect on a monthly reading challenge that’s both fun and rewarding.
1. Choose Your Challenge Theme
The first step in creating a monthly reading challenge is deciding on a theme. Here are some ideas:
- January: “New Beginnings” – Read a debut novel.
- February: “Love Is in the Air” – Read a romance or a book about relationships.
- March: “Around the World” – Read a book set in a different country.
- April: “Classics Revisited” – Pick a classic you’ve always wanted to read.
- October: “Spooky Season” – Read a thriller, horror, or mystery novel.
Use your journal to log the theme for each month and list potential book picks.
2. Create a Challenge Tracker
Visual trackers make it easy to monitor your progress and stay motivated. Try these ideas:
- Checklist: List the books you plan to read for the challenge and check them off as you go.
- Progress Bar: Track how many books you’ve completed for the month.
- Pie Chart: Visualize the genres or themes of the books you’re reading.
3. Log Your Reads
Dedicate a section of your journal to each book you read for the challenge. Include:
- Title and author
- Genre and theme
- Start and finish dates
- Reflections on how the book fits the challenge theme
4. Reflect on the Challenge
At the end of the month, use prompts to reflect on your experience:
- What was your favorite book from the challenge?
- Did you enjoy the theme?
- What did you learn or discover through the challenge?
5. Plan Rewards for Milestones
Rewards can be a great way to stay motivated. Treat yourself to:
- A new book
- A cozy reading day
- A fun journal spread to celebrate your success
6. Get Creative with Your Spreads
Your journal is the perfect place to add personality to your challenge. Try:
- Themed Layouts: Match your spreads to the monthly theme with colors, stickers, or doodles.
- Quote Pages: Highlight favorite quotes from the books you read.
- Mood Trackers: Log how each book made you feel.
7. Join a Reading Community
If you enjoy connecting with others, share your progress online or join a book club. Use your journal to log recommendations or feedback from other readers participating in the challenge.
Ready to Start Your Challenge?
Our Bibliophile’s Bliss Reading Journal includes templates for planning and tracking monthly challenges, making it easy to stay organized and inspired. Download your free sample here and start your first challenge today!
A monthly reading challenge is a fun and structured way to expand your literary horizons and stay motivated. With your reading journal as your guide, you’ll not only track your progress but also create a keepsake of your reading achievements.
Happy journaling!
