Do you find yourself frequently purchasing books, even when you have a substantial backlog of unread ones? Many book enthusiasts can relate to this well-intentioned but often unproductive habit. Over time, these unread books tend to accumulate, whether due to a lack of time or waning interest in reading. This phenomenon has a fitting Japanese term - Tsundoku.
Professor Andrew Gerstle, an expert in pre-modern Japanese literature at the University of London, informed the BBC that the termTsundoku, a word combining "tsun" meaning "to pile up" and "doku" meaning "reading," had been documented in print as far back as 1879. If your reading collection no longer brings you joy and you're burdened by Tsundoku guilt, it's time for a change.
Here's a plan to transform into a more discerning reader:
When deciding which books to part with, a helpful strategy is to set a time limit for how long a book stays in your to-be-read pile. Once you've identified books you don't plan to read or revisit, it's time to declutter. Consider selling or generously donating these books to fellow readers, creating valuable space on your bookshelf.
Establishing a guideline for book acquisitions is crucial to prevent accumulating unread volumes. For instance, one can adopt a personal rule to complete at least 10 percent of their Tsundoku collection before adding new titles, or alternatively, restrict new book purchases to a maximum of two books per month. This strategy helps maintain a manageable reading list and avoids the familiar problem of a mounting pile of untouched books.
Limiting book purchases should not impact your reading experience. Opting for a library offers various advantages, including cost-effectiveness and opportunities for social interaction with fellow enthusiasts. Furthermore, you can diversify your reading by borrowing or exchanging books within your social circle, expanding your literary horizons.
Survey your collection of unread reading materials, encompassing books, magazines, and newspapers. Once you've tallied the extent of your unread literary stash, compile a list of items you acknowledge won't be perused, and promptly part ways with them. For example, if you possess an untouched stack of magazines from a subscription, it's prudent to terminate the subscription and conserve your finances, ensuring a more streamlined and purposeful reading collection.
When we start a book but lose interest over time, it may be a sign to bid farewell to such literature. "Reading should offer enjoyment, not become an obligation." It's essential to find books that resonate with us to make our reading time truly fulfilling.
Avoiding temptations is a prudent strategy for steering clear of addictions, and a similar approach can be beneficial when it comes to restraining impulsive book purchases. Taking a hiatus from bookstores for a considerable duration can help prevent spontaneous expenditures on new literary treasures.
In conclusion, let's remain steadfast in our commitment to avoid accumulating unread books. We can achieve this by exploring minimalist living through insightful blogs and embracing mindfulness practices. These endeavors will foster serenity and serve as a motivating force in our journey toward maintaining this newfound lifestyle.
