"75 Booked" Makes 75 Hard Accessible for Readers—and It's Helping Us Overcome Reading Slumps

"75 Booked" Makes 75 Hard Accessible for Readers—and It's Helping Us Overcome Reading Slumps

      Occasionally, TikTok proves to be an unexpected blessing. Amidst various trends and life hacks, I sometimes discover something genuinely useful, and this time it’s a challenge that every book enthusiast should know about. Developed by @emilypaigebooks, the 75 Booked Challenge is my favorite so far (and I've tried nearly all of them). As someone on the brink of a reading slump (the worst scenario for a reader), I was instantly attracted to it because it perfectly balances challenge with achievability. Plus, it provides the added benefit of helping me tackle my TBR list and achieve my reading goals before the year wraps up. If you’re looking for a cozy way to re-engage with reading or just enjoy a good reset, the 75 Booked Challenge might be just what you need.

      What is 75 Booked?

      You’ve likely heard of the 75 Hard challenge—the rigorous fitness program that tests both physical and mental resilience. Recently, however, many have been putting a gentler twist on it, crafting their own versions focused on mindfulness rather than purely physical strength. Introducing 75 Booked: a challenge dedicated to enriching your mind through reading. Here’s how it works:

      - Complete two 45-minute reading sessions each day (one of which shouldn't be in bed). And yes, audiobooks count.

      - Drink a water bottle during each reading session.

      - Log all your reading in a physical journal.

      - No buying new books—everything you read must already be owned, purchased secondhand, or borrowed from a library.

      It’s organized, yet still feels purposeful and mindful, providing the gentle accountability needed to make it achievable.

      My reflections on 75 Booked so far

      I didn't hesitate to join in once I discovered this challenge on my FYP. I already read fairly regularly, but I’m always up for a fresh challenge. I particularly appreciate this one’s integration of physical wellness with the “drink water while you read” guideline. As someone who often struggles with hydration, I see that as a win-win. The journaling component is also a refreshing touch. I’ve been eager to track my reading more effectively, and honestly, I sometimes forget certain book details just a week after finishing. Maintaining a reading log feels like an excellent way to stay mindful of what I'm absorbing. The “no new books” rule is the simplest part for me, as I have a large home library (I lost count after 100), mostly made up of secondhand treasures. For any books I want that I don’t own, my library is always a reliable option, especially with its ability to request titles from other branches. I’m only a few weeks in, but I can definitely envision continuing these reading habits even after the 75 days are complete.

      Why you should try the 75 Booked Challenge

      This is a wonderfully cozy, mentally enriching challenge ideal for a more reflective time of year. It encourages consistency without pressure, mindfulness without strictness, and inspiration without burnout. By intentionally setting aside time daily for yourself, you’ll cultivate gentle consistency while establishing healthier digital boundaries and trading mindless scrolling for something more fulfilling. It’s also an opportunity to rekindle your passion for reading or pull yourself out of a reading slump, providing just enough structure to restore joy. This challenge emphasizes that growth doesn't always have to involve doing more; it can be about slowing down, refocusing, and enjoying the process.

      Tips for success

      - Schedule dedicated reading time each day.

      - Multitask by listening to audiobooks while driving, cleaning, or walking.

      - Create a list of books you’re genuinely excited to read, ensuring a mix.

      - Choose a cozy reading spot that makes you look forward to your sessions.

      - Establish a ritual—morning coffee or nighttime tea.

      - Remember: it’s not about perfection.

      In a world focused on self-improvement challenges, 75 Booked distinguishes itself through its simplicity. It's not about pushing harder; it’s about nourishing your mind, one chapter at a time.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR

      Leanna Julius, Contributing Writer

      Leanna is a lifelong reader and contributing writer for The Everygirl. She focuses on wellness and lifestyle content, aiming to help others attain happiness and health through simple and sustainable tips and tricks.

      Feature graphic images credited to: Julia Peake | Dupe, Bonnie Dantonio | Dupe, Jessica Guardado | Dupe

"75 Booked" Makes 75 Hard Accessible for Readers—and It's Helping Us Overcome Reading Slumps

Other articles

Kiri brand at Moscow Fashion Week: clothing for outings and antics Kiri brand at Moscow Fashion Week: clothing for outings and antics

As part of Moscow Fashion Week, the brand Kiri presented its own show for the first time under the direction of founder Katya Kiri. The debut sounded not just like a presentation of the collection, but as a statement: clothing is not only about "going out," but also about "allowing yourself more." About the fact that pink is the new black, and modern femininity no longer strives to be unambiguous —…

Sati Kazanova, Lina Dembikova, Andrey Savochkin, Nikita Kiosse, Katya Kabak, Sergey Sukhov, Angelina Melnikova, and many others at the Yana Besfamilnaya show. Sati Kazanova, Lina Dembikova, Andrey Savochkin, Nikita Kiosse, Katya Kabak, Sergey Sukhov, Angelina Melnikova, and many others at the Yana Besfamilnaya show.

Through the sun rays, a summer rain falls. In the air is the scent of wet earth. The city freezes for a moment — in this state, a new collection from the fashion brand Yana Besfamilnaya appears, which was showcased on March 18, in the very center of Moscow. The starting point of the new collection is the lawn. Without complex philosophy and multilayered meanings — on the level of sensations: sun glimmers on the lush green...

Sati Kazanova, Lina Dembikova, Andrey Savochkin, Nikita Kiosse, Katya Kabak, Sergey Sukhov, Angelina Melnikova, and many others at the Yana Besfamilnaya show. Sati Kazanova, Lina Dembikova, Andrey Savochkin, Nikita Kiosse, Katya Kabak, Sergey Sukhov, Angelina Melnikova, and many others at the Yana Besfamilnaya show.

Through the sun rays, a summer rain falls. In the air is the scent of wet earth. The city freezes for a moment — in this state, a new collection from the fashion brand Yana Besfamilnaya appears, with its show held on March 18, in the very center of Moscow. The starting point of the new collection is the lawn. Without complex philosophy and multilayered meanings — on the level of sensations: sun glimmers on the lush green…

In NYC, Every Fashionable Woman's Capsule Wardrobe Features These Items. In NYC, Every Fashionable Woman's Capsule Wardrobe Features These Items. From leather bomber jackets and ballet flats to the ideal white t-shirt, these staples characterize the effortlessly stylish capsule wardrobe that chic women in New York rely on. A subtle "hint": the main lyricist of the country MOT at STARS COFFEE A subtle "hint": the main lyricist of the country MOT at STARS COFFEE

STARS COFFEE welcomed spring loudly, cheerfully, and with music! On March 9, at the café on Old Arbat, 19, there was no room for an apple to fall: the guest was the star of the Russian show business, musician and singer Mot. Guests were greeted with several surprises as part of the collaboration with the famous artist in honor of the release of his track "Hint at Us." Together with Mot, the café developed...

"75 Booked" Makes 75 Hard Accessible for Readers—and It's Helping Us Overcome Reading Slumps

If you’ve been searching for a way to return to reading or simply enjoy a fresh start, the 75 Booked challenge could be just what you're looking for.