This year I’ve made the resolution to read a book a week. I’m ramping it up from a vigorous pace, to a pace I’m not confident I can pull off. I figure if I can read for 45 minutes daily, and make up for the days I don’t in the evenings it shouldn’t be a problem but the key will be staying focused. A book a week breaks down to around 40 pages a day. That makes it sound more do-able! 
Last year I wanted to do something similar but chickened out of making the commitment and just went along reading a book or two per month. Here’s what got me started on this kick – How to read a book a week in 2010. (2011 or 2012 too!) So, 52 books in 2012 is #1.
When I made the switch from Blackberry to iPhone I stumbled onto the Goodreads app. The site is good and they have a yearly goal badge which I’m going to use to keep accountable. The site allows you to track your reading and browse books then add them to a “To Read” shelf. I’ve been looking for a good way to track my reading and have been happy with Goodreads, so far.
The second Resolution I have for 2012 is to smile more. Yup, pretty soft, tough to quantify, and hard to plan but it’s #2.
My third resolution is to work out at least 2X per week. That’s not a strong fitness plan and it’s not well detailed but I know I can get out at least twice a week to do some cardio and a little weight training. In the past I’ve never set any hard goals or made it a resolution to get in shape or lose weight, and I’m hesitant to do so, because it’s so easy to lose the will to do it, but it’s time to make it happen. I feel the need to put together a stronger plan, but this is my resolution #3 for 2012.
Mitch – That is a man size journey you are embarking on!! It would be great to get a good thread at refresh going on “What are you reading”. Now that I have a Kindle it’s been easy to find new reading material.
Would love a resource to share with like minded individuals.
I hear you Ryan, and the kindle is a helluva tool. I’d almost prefer something smaller or a little more tailored then the whole DealerRefresh community. My worry would be too much detraction from the purpose, otherwise check out my Goodreads “Read” shelf for what I’ve gone thru lately. It’s not quite in order because I’ve just been adding the books I’ve read randomly but there’s some gooders. http://ow.ly/8fV2w
Hey Mitch, just downloaded the goodreads app..great suggestion. I got an ipad for christmas (thanks to the wife!) and have been looking for some good material. This app makes finding things a whole lot easier.
Last year, I made it a goal of mine to read more as well and got through some of the books on your list. Your off to a great start! I currently reading the Steve Jobs book, highly recommended, but lengthy.
Thanks Walt, I got the Steve Jobs book for Christmas (thanks to the wife). It looks like a monster but I’m sure it will be a page turner. I thought it was funny but that book was actually listed as a business book that shaped 2011 on Mitch Joel’s blog, here. Sounds like I should have a pen and pad while reading the book! Thanks again for the comment Walt!