Happy New Year! 2023 felt like it snuck up and totally surprised me. Gone are the sparkly lights and hints of holiday cheer. Christmas is over and we're smack dab in winter.
Now is an excellent time to give yourself some thoughtful moments to prepare for what could possibly be your best year yet. I'm anticipating some exciting changes in 2023. (I'm sure I'll share that with you at a later date.)
To prepare for the coming year, I've got a list to share with you:
Don't dwell on what didn't go well or work out in 2022—God has a plan. Trust Him! Most of the stuff I blog about also relates to me. To say my plans for 2022 didn't work out is an understatement. I tried. Believe me. I'm not abandoning my long-time goals, but I think God has another journey in mind for me. Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18–19
Read your Bible. You'll receive the encouragement, wisdom, and guidance needed to get on with your life. This year I'm challenging myself to read the Bible chronologically.
Rest is productive. You don't have to be crazy busy to accomplish your goals. Taking time to rest your body and brain will give you more fuel to get your tasks completed. If you regularly read my blog, you'll note that when needed, I take off a week to recharge.
Do things you love to do more often this year. Don't deny yourself the gift of a treat. Whether it's a puzzle, reading a book, doing a craft, or going outside for a walk—if it gives you joy, embrace the break and enjoy the moment.
Release situations/tasks that drain you. You don't have to do it all, and you don't have to continue on with something if doing so drains you emotionally and physically. Sometimes habit or previous commitments keep you tied to a schedule or a situation that no longer works for you. Letting go gives you room to investigate new opportunities.
If you can't get a new idea out of your head, go for it. It's better to try and know for sure than to never start and always wonder. (This is for me! I'm going to try that new thing I mentioned earlier.)
Write that encouraging note! Everyone needs a kind word. When someone comes to mind, send a quick email or even better, a paper note. Who doesn't like getting a nice greeting card? Perhaps consider writing yourself an encouraging note that you can carry into the new year. Stick it in a journal or on a bulletin board and read it when you need a lift.
It's not a bad thing to feel uncomfortable. When you try something new it's common to feel uncomfortable. Don't let those icky feelings hold you back from a new experience.
Tie up loose ends. Pray that God will show you how to move forward without entanglements from 2022 that you don't need. Walk away from any burdens you've been dragging along.
Cheers to 2023! I hope it is your best year.
Comments