I've noticed on my last three beers I haven't taken hydrometer readings. I simply forgot to take the OG after the first one. I panicked then realized it was still going to be beer and as long as it tasted good I didn't care about the readings. If I were competing I'd obviously care way more. I simply estimate abv based on my I brewmaster app. I'll be more diligent next time, but my beers have been fantastic and I haven't been as concerned because I'm not obsessing over a few points on the hydrometer.