The most effective way I could think to illustrate how to set up a year for success was to share my own experience with you. A summary of steps are listed at the bottom of the blog.
With my Bible, blanket, and planner in one hand, and my steaming hot cup of coffee in the other, I make my way to my favorite, comfy, thinking spot. I settle in with unsure, yet great expectations. The excitement in me builds as I begin to consider the coming year. I’m naturally a visionary, I love to think about the future and consider all the possibilities, laying it out thoughtfully, building it with God. But before I venture too far down the path, I’m reminded to stop and consider where I have been spiritually, relationally, and professionally. I breathe in deep, inhaling the sweet smell of the coffee and begin to savor each sip while it warms my hands and my belly. The Holy Spirit gently nudges me through the questions listed, and I stop to consider what themes God taught me this year. I catch my breath as I remember the constant trials our family encountered for months, and then a smile breaks on my face, as I recall God's faithfulness for each. The themes God taught were all intricately intertwined. I take another sip of my coffee and my thoughts wander to my relationships. My heart is heavy for some, and full for others and I wonder what this year could bring.
My coffee needs a little refreshing, so I venture to the kitchen and fill my cup again, adding more creamer and grabbing a cookie. I quickly head to my spot and snuggle under the covers. The warmth of the blanket jogs my mind and the anticipation for this year begins. “God, how can I nurture my faith and show love to others this year? What might you be leading me towards.” I sit in stillness, as thoughts begin to swirl in my mind; a book I've been wanting to read, a conversation I had with a friend, a discipline I’d like to strengthen. They all join together to create a starting point. A place to begin, and see where He leads further. My excitement grows with each thought! I glance up and look at our beautiful family picture hanging on the wall. And a desire for more intentionality with each person deepens. “What does that look like this year God?” A plan starts to form as I jot down thoughts. The circle of relationships widens, and I prayerfully consider how I can grow each. My heart pounds with enthusiasm.
I glance into my mug and realize it’s half full, and I take another sip. My mind swirls with the anticipation of what’s to come as I continue with the guided questions. I turn my attention to our family core values (what is most important to us), and if we are doing them well? I desire nothing more than to keep pace with the spirit, while keeping our targeted vision for our family in mind. I grab my pencil and continue to evaluate our family’s pace of life. It’s been a busy year, with a lot of unexpected pivots. Flexibility was key to our survival (yet, another theme interwoven in our year.) My heart longs to know how to plan further, yet I realize our family’s journey is in a different season, a hopeful one, and one to pour into. Patience is required in order to fully embrace this season (something I’m not good at); and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds, knowing He’s got us!
My coffee is almost gone now, and my mind is fully awake. I’m alert to the spirit’s leading and I prayerfully consider what my full intentions for this year could be. Our experience this past year reminds me that God’s path for us might look different than my original thoughts. It’s a guide to get me started, something to aspire too. We encountered a mix of excitement seeing our intentions fulfilled along with new adventures, and big pivots. I begin to build on where we have been, carefully curating each intention to align with our path both personally and professionally.
The time spent reflecting on last year, and prayerfully considering what’s next, was well spent and brought refreshment to my soul. I grab my mug, and return to the kitchen, to begin my day and move forward in hope.
New Day Planners has guided worksheets to lead you through the above.
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Steps for Planning Your Year:
- Find a quiet and comfortable space to focus.
- Review the past year and reflect on your experiences.
- Plan to strengthen your spiritual disciplines and personal relationships in the coming year.
- Pray and consult with God about your current schedule, activities, work demands, and projects, seeking guidance on any necessary adjustments.
- Visualize and set goals for your next year.