Do you start the year by making lists of goals, resolutions and aspirations? Many folks thoroughly dislike this custom, but I love it!
(“Well Lit Lemon” – painting done in class with Aimee Erickson. Acrylic on paper, 5×7 inches. )
Why would I make such a list? Here are my reasons.
- It helps me establish priorities.
In a world full of distractions and obligations (sometimes I feel like a mom with a dozen “should do’s,” or “could do’s,” or “want to do’s” pulling at my clothes) my thought-through list of goals and intentions helps me see the big picture of what I’ve determined to give myself to in the coming 12 months.
- It improves accountability.
To myself mostly (which means I need to review my document from time to time to make sure I’m staying on track). It helps me to be accountable to others if I’ve gone public.
- It helps me gain a holistic and hopefully balanced perspective of my time.
My habits and goals template includes all my life categories:
- Spiritual – prayer, quiet time, Bible memory, the year’s One Little Word and life verse, ministry.
- Home – goals for my physical home with “to do” ideas for every room of the house.
- Social life and recreation – includes family time and vacation.
- Physical – diet and exercise.
- Work – art, writing, which includes social media which I use it in my business and professional development.
I don’t remember where I found the template for my yearly list. But there are lots of resources to help make such a document. This website offers free downloads of goals and resolution templates.
Of course, making wordy lists isn’t the only way to express yearly aspirations and intentions. Vision boards are another method of recording inspiration and setting up a roadmap for the year ahead. This site has an excellent article about why and how to create a vision board.
All that said, I know that I can’t control the future and that events and people may play havoc with my good intentions. And so I hold my list loosely, with the attitude of this prayer from the December 9th Lectio 365 reading:
Lord, I let go of the illusion that I can control every aspect of my life. My life is affected by the choices of others and the brokenness of a world waiting to be redeemed. I yield myself to Your presence, Your purpose, Your pleasure, Your path.”
Lectio 365 – January 9, 2024
What are your tips for plotting the year ahead?
Violet Nesdoly 