Ahhh, the new year. I saw a quote on Pinterest that went something like this: "Today is the start of a 365 page book. Make sure to write a good one." I love new beginnings. I love the feeling of optimism that envelopes me and the invincible feeling that says, "I'm going to do amazing things." However, when setting resolutions for the new year, it's easy to get overloaded with setting too many expectations which quickly leads to feeling overwhelmed, and then before January is even over, we are saying, "Oh, why bother!"
I don't want this year to be like that. A long time ago, I attended a lesson at church where the teacher used the scriptures to illustrate how we should think about writing resolutions. I've never forgotten it and want to share it with you. The scripture is Luke 2:52 and it goes like this: "And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature, and in favour with God and man." Jesus Christ is our example of how we can become well rounded people.
- He increased in wisdom: What will you do for your mind? Maybe it's to read a book. Maybe it's to take a class or study a topic you are interested in learning more about. Do something good for your mind this year.
- He increased in stature: What will you do for your health? This can be exercise, eating habits, going to bed earlier...whatever fits into this category
- He increased in favour with God and man. I like to split this last one into two categories. First, favour with God: "What will you do to increase your spirituality?" Maybe it's studying the scriptures with specific questions in mind. Maybe it's going and doing your visiting teaching each month or attending church more regularly. And second, favour with man: How can you be a good friend? One year my husband and I were feeling like we needed some more adult friendships (our kids are great, but...) so we decided we'd make it a goal to invite another family over for dinner at least once a month. It could be something like being more positive or more patient. Maybe you need to be a better friend to your husband or your kids. Goals relating to any relationships fit well in this category.
And you're done! Four goals to a more well-rounded you. Nothing impossible. No lists a mile long. And to help you on your way to resolution success, I made this free printable. It's sized to print as a 5x7 but the high resolution file lets you adjust the print size smaller or bigger. Feel free to print some for your church class or bring around to friends and neighbors.
Happy 2014!
to download, click HERE
