Are you constantly in the mood for fall vibes, a book, and a fuzzy blanket? Or do you like to reach on the beach as you glisten beneath the scorching sun? Maybe you read in bed or first thing in the morning with your coffee?

Whatever the case, the vibes around which you read can be as varied as what you’re actually in the mood to read. As someone that has always hated (I mean loathed with my whole rebel, Generator, Enneagram 4, Aries Sun, Scorpio Moon self) is when people tell me what to do.

And not just people. Turns out this applies to inanimate objects… or lists like a TBR. Don’t get me wrong, I love finding books I’m excited to read, films I want to add to my TBW (to be watched, I’m trying to get it to catch on), but if I’m burnt out on the romantic fantasy and want a breather, I want my mood, not my list to dictate what comes next on my nightstand.

So, if you’re like me, and let yourself be carried by the wind, or maybe the moon as it were, then here are some ways to feel like you’re keeping up with your reading aspirations while honoring your bookish mood.

1. Only add things to your list that you’re truly excited to read. This might be hard, I know, given that I’ve definitely added to my “Want to read” on Goodreads with nothing more than a killer cover to go by, but if you’re being intentional in the list formation, you’re less likely to bump up against a title when it comes time to read.
2. Give yourself a variety of genres. I recently was real sick of romantic fantasy, despite the fact that I’m currently writing two myself. Instead of insisting I keep going with this genre I pulled out a rom-com I’d added to my list and felt the levity of a palette cleanser.
3. Stop reading. This might sound akin to murder or self-harm, but sometimes the best way to come back to a book or a series, or a reading goal is to take some intentional time off. It works. Trust me.
4. Respect yourself and your opinions. I know this might be easier said than done but it is okay to DNF. Even if everyone wanted you to read it. Even if it’s well-liked. Even if bookstagram won’t shut up about it. You’re allowed to say it’s not for me. DNF. Don’t torture yourself here. Reading should be fun.

And that’s it! A few things to keep in mind for your self care and the wellbeing of those around you. Take your time, enjoy what you’re reading, and know that despite the tragedy of it, you’ll never read everything there is to read, so it’s okay to only focus on what really lights you up.