As the calendar flips to 2026, thoughts turn to fresh starts and meaningful goals. While typical New Year’s Resolutions often focus on fitness, decluttering or productivity, one of the most rewarding habits to improve? Recommit to reading! All you need to do is make some space in your schedule for a great story.

Of course, the best laid plans sometimes go awry. (How many times have your abandoned New Year’s Resolutions by February?) So, the key to reading more in 2026 is to keep goals realistic. Rather than striving to read a book a week, start with something a bit more manageable, such as reading for 15 minutes a day. The goal isn’t speed or volume; it’s consistency. And, those minutes add up quickly over a year… 15 minutes a day is over 90 hours over the course of 12 months.

You should also redefine what “counts” as reading. Many people abandon reading goals because they feel boxed into certain formats. In 2026, give yourself permission to explore graphic novels, short stories, essays and even rereads of childhood favorites. In order to stay on track, reading should never feel like a chore.  

Creating a reading-friendly environment can also make a big difference. Keep books where you’ll actually reach for them… on a nightstand, in a tote bag or on the kitchen counter. Having a book “at the ready” makes it more likely you’ll pick it up. And don’t forget to build a small “to be read” list for the year.

For families, New Year’s reading resolutions are even more powerful when shared. Modeling reading habits shows children that reading isn’t just for school. Setting a family reading time or reading aloud together turns literacy into a part of daily life. (Click here for our top read aloud tips.)

Finally, tracking progress can be motivating, but don’t let it define you. Easy apps, like Fable or Goodreads, help you “keep score” without judgement. The purpose of tracking isn’t to berate yourself, but to notice patterns including go-to genres and authors that inspire. (Learn more about reading tracker apps here.)

In 2026, whether you read one more book than last year or build a new daily habit, every page is a step toward a better year ahead.

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware focused on providing book access to those who need it most.

Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s literacy projects, how to donate used books in Delaware, or volunteer your time? Click on the About Us tab to learn more.