2018: A New Year

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

A new year is upon us yet again. 2018. I swear, each year goes by faster than the last. I know that this is the time of year when we look back over the last 12 months and think about what we want our next 12 to look like. We start making our “new year’s resolutions” or thinking about our “focus word” for the next year. I have never been much of “resolutions” person, but I did like the idea of a “focus word”.  I partly still like having a “focus word”, but usually after a few months go by, I forget all about it. As for resolutions, well, I have never been good at those!

So, neither of these things hold any interest to me this year. Although, I do like to look back, to see if I have changed. And, I have grown a bit since this time last year. Most of my growing has been spiritually, and I am so grateful for that. Isn’t it funny how much you can change and grow in just a year?

And, what about you? Do you really stick to those “resolutions” you make? Be honest now.  I know we start with the best of intentions, but I am willing to bet that nine times out of ten, we fail. So, my question is; why bother with them at all?

I am changing up my thinking this year. I am going to focus on being a better person, a kind person, someone who does the right thing. As I type this, I know that it sounds easy to say, but I know that in practice, it will be anything but easy. I guess to put it more simply, I want to be a better person today than I was yesterday. (This is more of a life-long goal, rather than just something to attain over the next 12 months.)

And, I am going to make 2018 my year. I am going to do things for me. I am going to put myself first. (I know this sounds selfish and also, isn’t that just usually how we are as people? We put ourselves first.) But, I propose to figure out what is important to me and then go about making them a priority in my everyday life. (Things like spending more time with God and my family and friends.)

I also intend to work hard towards some personal career goals this year. However, I am not going to rush any of it. I have tried doing that and it doesn’t work. I am going to be slow and steady and take my time. And, who knows, maybe even take a leap of faith at some point. 

But, for those you who still want to make some resolutions, might I make a suggestion to you? I have realized that there is a much better and easier way to make changes in your life. (And, best of all, you can get started any time!)

​First, you must be ready and honestly willing to want whatever that change may be. You should want it with all of your heart and soul. Next, you must be willing to put in whatever work is necessary to make that change. Finally, and most importantly, give it to God. Or, maybe you should start with giving it to God.

Either way, no matter what, pray about it. Talk to God and be open to hearing Him answer. And then, take your time, be mindful and start taking steps toward the changes you want to see. Start with baby steps, it is easier that way. (At least, this has been my experience.) Then, you can take bigger and bigger steps as you go along. Or, you can be like me and just baby-step your way through the whole journey. No shame it that! Steps are steps and progress is progress.

Along the way, just keep on praying and trusting God and leaning on Him. If you truly want something bad enough and work hard towards your goals, He will get you to where you want to be. It may take more time than you thought, it may not go according to your plan, there will likely be some twists and turns and diversions along the way, or your end goal may completely change; but if work with God and trust in Him, you will get there. You will win. The victory will be yours. This I can promise you!

I am still working my way along in this life, as we all are. I am growing and changing each day. I am learning not to worry about things or people. I am learning that if I trust in God, I will be just fine. I am learning that God loves me and wants only the best for me. (And you too!) I am learning that God wants us to be happy and have abundant lives. I am learning to put God first. And, my prayer for the new year, is that you are learning all of these things too! ​