The Lioness Doesn't Concern Herself

Does your TBR list ever feel overwhelming? I know mine does! It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that we must read every single book we acquire, or feel guilty about the ones gathering digital dust. But lately, I’ve been adopting a new philosophy, inspired by that powerful sentiment: 'The Lioness does not concern herself with how many books are on her tbr.' And honestly, it’s been a game-changer for my reading life. For too long, I felt like I was in a silent race against myself, constantly trying to tick off titles from my ever-expanding list. Every new book recommendation, every intriguing cover, every buzz-worthy release instantly went onto the pile, and then the pressure mounted. It felt like a never-ending task rather than a joyful hobby. But what if we shifted our perspective? What if, like the lioness, we simply enjoyed the abundance, the potential, and the sheer joy of knowing there are so many stories waiting for us, without the burden of 'having' to read them all? This 'lioness mindset' for readers means letting go of the guilt. It means understanding that books are treasures to be savored and collected, not chores to be completed. My shelves—both physical and digital—are filled with possibilities, not obligations. I don't concern myself with the number anymore, but rather with the excitement of what my next read could be. It's about savoring the journey, the discovery, and the pure pleasure of delving into a new world, not just racing to reach the finish line of a reading challenge. So, how do I embrace this? First, I stopped setting rigid reading goals based purely on quantity. Instead, I focus on reading what genuinely excites me in the moment. Sometimes that’s a brand-new release everyone is talking about, and sometimes it’s an old, forgotten gem from my TBR that suddenly calls to me. Second, I celebrate the act of collecting books. Each addition to my TBR is a testament to my curiosity and passion for stories. It’s okay to have a beautiful, sprawling collection even if you haven't read every single one yet. Think of it as a personal library of dreams and future adventures. Third, I consistently remind myself that reading should be a source of joy and escape, not another source of stress or anxiety in an already busy life. Being a dedicated reader means constantly discovering new worlds, new authors, and new perspectives. The lioness doesn't worry about the opinions of others; she focuses on her own path and her own needs. Similarly, I'm choosing to focus on my own unique reading journey, picking up books that truly call to me, and not letting the sheer volume of my TBR intimidate me. If you're like me and constantly adding more books to your personal collection, know that you're not alone. Let’s all embrace our inner lioness and enjoy the beautiful, bountiful world of books without the pressure!