3 Goals for the New Year

I have a love/hate relationship with New Year’s Resolutions.

The idea of resolutions is completely fantastic, and something my goal-loving self can easily get carried away with, but I really don’t need another reason to beat myself up over unrealistic expectations. I gave myself a break for many years, and left New Year’s Resolutions behind, but for this year, I’ve come across a few things I can comfortably get behind. Nothing too demanding, and I really don’t even like to call them something as official as “resolutions” – they’re more like little practices I want to add to my life to hopefully bring about growth and greater intention.

1) Five Year Prayer Journal

I don’t journal regularly – more just as the need arises and I have an urge to get things off my chest. I jot notes down when I’m doing my devotions, if there’s something specific I want to remember. But I heard about this idea while listening to a sermon, and I loved it – using a five year journal to keep track of what I’m praying for.

I like it because it’s simple and quick, and a really easy, organized way to look back on how God has been working in my life, sometimes so gradually I don’t even notice. This seems like something which will encourage me to wait on God in a more long-term kind of way, and as I’ve started to fill in the first lines for 2017, I feel a lot of joy and anticipation for how God will answer prayers and surprise me over the next five years. There’s no way to know what will fill those lines, and I’m so thankful He’s brought me to a place where I can eagerly anticipate it, and not be filled with worry or fear about the future. He’s proven His goodness again and again, even during the darkest times, and I know He will do it again.

It’s not too late to start this little habit for the new year, if it grabs your interest! You can order this journal from Amazon by heading over here. (affiliate link)

2) Declutter 2017 Things in 2017

This goal is a little more intimidating, but I’m okay with it because I’ve done it before (in 2015), and am pretty sure I can do it again. Last time, I just made tally marks on a paper, but this time I’ve printed out the chart that keeps popping up on Facebook, and already, I have to say – colouring in those boxes on an official chart is WAY more fun, and very motivating. I let myself get a little head start in December, and I’ve already hit 100 things, so we’re off to a good start!

You can find the chart here.

3) Budget Consistently

We’ve budgeted off and on over the years, but every time we have a baby and go into survival mode, budgeting falls by the wayside. This fall, Ben and I decided to get back on track, and since there should be no more babies, we’re hoping to stay consistent! I’m excited to start this year off fresh. The first few months were for getting a feel for where we’re at and how we’re spending, but now we’ve built up a record of how we spend, and we can work at setting goals.

Three little goals for the new year! Do you have any goals you’re hoping to accomplish? Do share!

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