Creating A To Be Read Jar

Creating A To Be Read Jar

Do you have a growing stack of unread books piling up on your bedside table? Are you struggling to decide which book to read next? If so, a To Be Read (TBR) jar might be the perfect solution for you. A TBR jar is a simple and fun way to help you pick your next read and keep track of your reading goals. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of creating your own TBR jar.

Materials You'll Need

• A glass jar with a lid
• Colorful paper or index cards
• A pen or marker
• Decorative items (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by choosing a glass jar with a lid. You can repurpose an old mason jar or find a decorative jar that matches your style.
2. Next, cut colorful paper or index cards into small, equal-sized pieces. These will be used to write the titles of the books in your TBR jar.
3. Now comes the fun part! Take each book from your TBR pile and write its title on one of the paper pieces. You can also add the author's name or a brief description if you'd like.
4. Fold the paper or index card in half and place it inside the jar. Repeat this step for each book in your TBR pile.
5. Once all the titles are in the jar, give it a good shake to mix them up. This adds an element of surprise to the process.
6. When you're ready to start a new book, simply reach into the jar and pick one of the paper pieces at random. This will be your next read!
7. Don't forget to update your TBR jar by removing the title of the book you've selected and adding new titles as you acquire more books.

Optional Customizations

If you want to make your TBR jar even more personalized and visually appealing, here are a few optional customizations:

• Decorate the jar with stickers, ribbons, or paint to give it a unique look.
• Create different categories for your TBR jar, such as 'fiction,' 'non-fiction,' 'classics,' or 'fantasy.' Use colored paper or index cards to represent each category.
• Add motivational quotes or reading challenges to some of the paper pieces to make the selection process more exciting.

Creating a TBR jar is not only a practical way to manage your reading list but also adds an element of surprise and fun to your reading routine. Give it a try, and let your TBR jar guide you on new reading adventures!

The Benefits of Using a TBR Jar

Using a TBR jar has several benefits that can enhance your reading experience:

• Eliminate Decision Fatigue: With a vast selection of books to choose from, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding what to read next. The TBR jar takes away the stress of decision-making by randomly selecting your next book for you.
• Discover Hidden Gems: We all have books on our shelves that we've been meaning to read but keep putting off. The TBR jar gives these neglected books a chance to shine. By picking books at random, you may discover hidden gems that you might have overlooked otherwise.
• Stay Accountable to Your Reading Goals: If you set reading goals for yourself, a TBR jar can help you stay on track. By having a physical representation of your reading list, you'll be motivated to pick up a new book and make progress towards your goals.
• Embrace Variety: Sometimes we get stuck in our reading comfort zones, sticking to the same genres or authors. A TBR jar encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and explore different genres, authors, and writing styles.
• Create Anticipation: Opening the TBR jar and selecting your next read creates a sense of anticipation and excitement. It adds an element of surprise to your reading routine, making the experience more enjoyable.

Tips for Maintaining Your TBR Jar

To make the most out of your TBR jar, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep Adding and Removing Books: As you finish reading books or acquire new ones, remember to update your TBR jar accordingly. Remove the titles of the books you've read and add new ones to keep the jar fresh and exciting.
• Set Realistic Reading Goals: It's essential to set achievable reading goals that align with your lifestyle and schedule. Don't overload your TBR jar with an unrealistic number of books that will leave you feeling overwhelmed.
• Embrace Flexibility: While the TBR jar is a great tool for choosing your next read, don't feel obligated to stick strictly to the jar's choices. If you're not in the mood for a specific book, feel free to pick another one or make adjustments to the selection process.
• Share Your TBR Jar: Consider sharing your TBR jar with friends or joining a book club. You can exchange book recommendations or even have group discussions about the books you've selected from your TBR jar.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to create and maintain a TBR jar, it's time to get started. Gather your materials, choose the books for your jar, and embrace the excitement and surprise that comes with every pick. Let your TBR jar inspire you to embark on new reading adventures, explore different genres, and discover hidden literary gems. Happy reading!