Do the Work!
As the new year begins, it seems that all thoughts are pointing toward a fresh start. Optimism is renewed and confident expectation for the future is evident.
I’m sure you’ve already heard people around you talking about getting in shape after the holidays. Then, there’s the conversation about saving more money and finally getting out of debt. Others vow that the new year will be their year to get organized.
Everyone loves this idea:
What lies ahead will be better
than what has been.
While all of this talk about the New Year isn’t a bad thing, the simple act of flipping a calendar page from December to January will not change you.
Let’s be real, Team. If you have not taken the time to develop the discipline necessary to commit to going to the gym at 5 a.m. in 2018, on January 1, 2019 the “fitness anointing” will probably not overshadow you.
If you did not set a budget before the month of January, chances are you will not be successful in reaching your savings goals.
If you’re looking for something magical to happen simply because it’s a new month, think again!
Early New Year’s Intervention
If you’ve fallen short in reaching your goals in the past, all hope is not lost!
Here are 5 quick tips to help you reach your goals for the new year:
1. Change your mind.
Authentic and lasting change begins with our thoughts. If we are going to be successful in reaching our goals in 2019 we must renew our minds in the Word of God (Romans 12:2). He has already given us the power and ability to be self-disciplined (2 Timothy 1:7). It is up to us to use the power that He has given us to make positive changes in our lives.
2. Know your “why”.
Take some time and think about why you want to reach a particular goal. This step will help you to regain your focus as the year wears on. It will be your reason not to give up when things get difficult. This step is vitally important.
3. Know the price of achievement.
Consider the cost of what you’d like to accomplish (Luke 14:28-30). What will you have to give up? What adjustments will you need to make in your schedule? You will need a plan. Write down the steps it will take to reach your goal. Your plan should be broken down into small, daily tasks. The simpler the daily tasks the better. Consistent effort produces amazing results!
4. Consider an accountability partner.
Tell someone about your goal and have them hold you accountable. Have an end of the week check-in to monitor your progress. This is an additional way of ensuring your success. Ideally, this person will help keep you motivated and will celebrate your wins with you.
5. Be gracious to yourself.
Extend yourself a little grace and patience; don’t be so hard on yourself. You did not get where you are in one day. The process of making a life change is something that happens gradually, over time.
So, what’s the play call?
The secret to accomplishing your goals this year is simple:
Show up every day and DO THE WORK!
How have YOU committed to show up and CRUSH this year?
