Why Do We Start Books and Never Finish Them? (And How to Change That)

Picture this: you’re browsing your local bookstore, your favorite online bookshop, or maybe even your personal bookshelf at home. You spot a book that calls to you, promising excitement, knowledge, or escape. You start reading with enthusiasm, but a few chapters in, life happens. The bookmark stays stuck in place for weeks, maybe months, and eventually, the book joins the graveyard of half-read titles.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. According to a 2021 survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 23% of adults reported starting books but not finishing them, citing reasons such as lack of time, difficulty staying engaged, and not finding the right book. Struggling to finish books is a common experience for casual readers and book lovers alike. But why does this happen? And more importantly, how can you overcome it and rekindle your love for reading? Let’s dive in.

Why We Struggle to Finish Books

If you’re abandoning books halfway, you’re not lazy or lacking discipline. Several factors might be at play:

1. Busy Lives: Between work, family, social commitments, and endless distractions, finding time to read can feel impossible.

2. Wrong Book Choices: Sometimes, the book we pick isn’t as engaging as we hoped, or it doesn’t match our mood or interests at the time - that's why we created The Right Read :)

3. Difficulty Focusing: In an age of constant notifications and screen time, staying immersed in a book can be harder than ever.

4. Overwhelming Expectations: Setting lofty goals, like finishing a certain number of books a month, can turn reading into a chore rather than a joy.

Practical Tips to Build a Consistent Reading Habit

The good news? You can reignite your passion for books with a few simple strategies.

1. Choose Books That Truly Resonate

Instead of picking books based on what’s trending or what you “should” read, focus on what excites you. Are you in the mood for a thrilling mystery, a cozy romance, or an inspiring memoir? When a book aligns with your interests, you’re more likely to stick with it.

Pro tip: You can take our quiz to get our curated mystery book kit, which can introduce you to hidden gems perfectly matched to your preferences.

2. Set Realistic Reading Goals

It’s okay to read one chapter a day or even a few pages at a time. By setting small, achievable goals, you’ll feel accomplished without the pressure to finish quickly.

3. Create a Cozy Reading Environment

Transform your reading time into a ritual. Light a candle, make a cup of tea, and find a comfortable spot. A little ambiance can make a world of difference in how enjoyable and immersive your reading experience feels.

4. Embrace Non-Linear Reading

Who says you have to read every book cover to cover? Skimming, jumping to the chapters that interest you most, or even reading multiple books at once are valid ways to keep your momentum.

5. Track Your Progress

Use a journal, an app, or even a simple checklist to track the books you’ve started and finished. Seeing your progress can motivate you to keep going.

Rekindle the Joy of Reading with a Twist

If choosing the right book feels overwhelming or if you’ve lost that spark of excitement, consider making reading an experience. Imagine receiving a beautifully curated book kit, tailored to your tastes, complete with thoughtful extras like a cozy candle, a delicious tea, and a personalized letter explaining why the book was chosen for you. It’s like a surprise gift to yourself, designed to make reading irresistible.

Our personalized mystery book kits were created with readers like you in mind—those who want to fall in love with books again but need a little nudge. Each kit is crafted to match your unique preferences and inspire you to turn those pages.

It’s About Enjoyment, Not Perfection

Remember, reading isn’t a race or a test. It’s a journey of discovery, relaxation, and curiosity. If you’ve been struggling to finish books, give yourself grace. Focus on finding stories that captivate you, creating a reading habit that fits your lifestyle, and letting go of the pressure to do it perfectly.

So, grab a book, settle into your favorite chair, and let yourself get lost in the pages. Who knows? The next book you pick up might just be the one that reignites your love for reading—and maybe even brings you to the last chapter.