A new year brings new beginnings. Every January, we are challenged and inspired to set new goals for ourselves. It can be easy to dream big, but wishful thinking can only take us so far. Time and time again, it feels like our New Year's resolutions are so extreme that they break before they even stand a chance. Let’s change that. This year, I offer you five smart goals to set for yourself.
Start a bucket list
Bucket lists are a great place to start with setting realistic goals for yourself. They don't have to include flying across the globe to experience something that will empty your wallet. Think small but rewarding. Examples include:
- Make new friends
- Read at least five books
- Discover new and delicious recipes
- Take personality quizzes to get to know yourself more
- Read 1 book of the Bible each month
- Send hand-written letters to your loved ones
Pick up a new hobby
I will never forget the day I decided to learn how to crochet. It was something I had wanted to do for a long time, and the process of learning was so much fun. Starting a new hobby should never be stressful. Remember, think realistically. The hobbies you choose should be rewarding and fun! Examples include:
- Playing the ukulele
- American Sign Language
- Embroidery
- Calligraphy
- Running
Pick one word for 2021
This is a goal I recommend to everyone. It's both realistic and rewarding. Take some time in early January to pause, reflect, think of the goals you would like to set for yourself, and pick out a word that summarizes those goals. Write down this word on a sticky note and place it someplace you’ll frequently see it or use this word to create a daily reminder notification in your phone. Examples include:
- Peace
- Kindness
- Understanding
- Forgiveness
- Independence
- Worthy
Journal daily
Consider taking five minutes of your time each day to record the happenings of your life. In the future, it will give you something to reflect on and recognize how much you’ve grown. From 2014 to 2017, I journaled the activities of my life every single day. This wasn't necessarily to keep an emotional diary, but rather, it was like a time capsule of my life. Looking back and reflecting on who I was during that time has been an interesting and nostalgic experience.
Be kind to yourself.
I'll be honest: being kind to yourself is challenging. It's so much easier to focus on the things that we are not rather than the things that we are. However, in my experience, the way I view and treat myself reflects the way I view and treat the people around me. This year, challenge yourself to recognize your worth, validate your experience, and show yourself grace. We are all fearfully and wonderfully made. Our heart should reflect the desire and intention of our great Creator.