Ahh! It’s the New Year! What a great time to start taking action on those goals that were (or are still being) set. Right? Whether you have a “New year, new me” spin on achieving those goals or a serious dedication to being intentional about your time, actions, and activities, I’m right there with you. For me, it takes a deeper dive below the surface of goals and affirmations that start with “why” and follow with an affirmation and scripture that co-insides with a sticking point.
“Why do I want this?”
Initially, it feels good to set goals with friends and family – together or separately – however, I have to get quiet with God to truly set them. Doing it this way, keeps me free from comparing my goals with someone else’s so I can ask “why do I want this?” repeatedly with no judgment.
Every now and then the “goals” I initially write down don’t amount to being a goal but more of a wish that gets flushed out when the answer to “why do I want this?” doesn’t lead to making a difference in the life of my family or myself.
After all, the whole point of setting goals is to start living the life God has for you to live. Coupling the goals with affirmations and scripture quiets the undermining voices from within that are keeping you where you are currently, which defeats the purpose of setting goals that are meant to change some aspect of your life.
Remembering to be mindful of the “why” is a natural motivator when you know you can do better and become a better version of yourself.
A part in one of my goals is to stay on top of my mental health. It’s important to me for several reasons. I’m learning how to better manage depression, anxiety, and PTSD; this is where affirmations and scripture come into play. Why? Well, setting goals was a hesitation point for me for many years until I found this little connection piece.
with a grateful heart
The other morning, during my devotional time, tea was steeping in a mug next to me that had a tag that said “Life is best lived by focusing on your goals and dancing through all other distractions.” That made me smile and got me thinking with a grateful heart.
It made me smile and give thanks to God to have read this truth on this day! It was just what was needed and oh-so timely. As there are SO many distractions each and every day, being able to have fun, like dancing through distractions, can make reaching goals reachable. After all, God has a purpose for you.
I’ve found that goals are reachable when action steps are taken every day and progress can be made. An affirmation like “A little progress each day adds up to big results.”
Accepting them as truth my body calms a little more; which encourages me to keep moving forward.
And at the end of the day, I can thank God as He helps me take action, no matter the size of the step taken. It is then I can say to myself “I accept that I did my best today” and genuinely feel those words in my heart, leading me to rest peacefully at night. Doing so helps me to feel grateful, and satisfied, and am willing to take the next day with a plan to keep taking action steps toward the goals that are set before me.
Now that I’ve shared a motivational view of goals and affirmations, I’m inviting you to join me on your journey to living a life of design & not one of default.
By the way, this can be done at ANY time of the year.