For some, resolutions may seem silly or a waste of time. For others who are more goal oriented, resolutions are essential. To be honest, I have been on both sides of the spectrum. However, when I honestly reflect over the past year (and even beyond) I can always find things that I wish I would do differently. For me, having a written goal is much better than simply thinking about it. So I am going back to the pen and paper this weekend (and the keyboard, obviously). I also know that accountability is crucial to any goal setting experience, which is why I have rounded up some of my people to keep my heart and actions in line. I highly recommend you do the same with any resolution or goal you intend to make. I plan on sharing more specifics regarding my goals in January, but I did want to share a couple of ways I am preparing for the New Year now.
-Agendas/Planners: My name is Hope, and I am an Agenda Addict. I don't think I have ever had the same one twice because I always want to try another one. When I came across Emily Ley on Instagram, I fell in love with her beautiful Simplified Planners. After following her posts for a while, it is clear that her heart is even more beautiful. I knew that I wanted to support someone who is making great things happen. My momma knows I adore planners and asked me if she could get me one for 2014 as a Christmas gift. How could I say no!? She agreed to allow me time to write in it before she wraps it up for me to open Christmas morning so for the past couple of weeks I have been doing just that! If you are still on the fence about a planner for 2014 and are looking to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters, Emily's Simplified Planners are for you! I am looking forward to being more organized, simplified, and encouraged each time I open my agenda next year.
-Power Sheets: At the Influence Conference in September, I had the privilege of hearing (& later hugging while passing each other at the elevator) Lara Casey speak. If you are familiar with the beautiful Southern Weddings magazine, then you have seen this woman's work. Her words of wisdom are also floating around the world wide web and Pinterest! I fell in love with her magazine while planning our wedding almost two years ago. Her love for Jesus, family, life, and all things Southern won my heart. Hearing her speak fanned the flame in me to make things happen. Her practical, honest approach to life is so motivating. On her personal webpage, she has a shop full of inspirational artwork. She also has some pretty amazing pages called Power Sheets. My Momma also included these in my Christmas gift! She knows the little things that make me happy! Basically, they are a package of sheets with outlines and tips for making goals and plans for the year and each month. Part of the process includes the Powersheets Prep where you write your dreams, your fears, and your goals. Talk about an awesome process for someone who enjoys writing! Definitely check these babies out if this kind of thing gets you excited.
-Lists: I am a list person. Grocery lists, to-do lists, prayer lists, goals lists, 1000 gifts lists, I love all the lists. One list that Lara Casey recommends is to identify what you are saying "Yes" to and to what you things you will say "No" in the upcoming year. I really enjoyed this and encourage everyone to try it.
In 2014 I will be saying YES to the following:
*reading and memorizing Scripture
*loving my husband in his love language
*learning more about dietetics and nutrition
*following our budget
*developing more contentment
*encouraging others daily
*giving and receiving grace
*serving our church and community
*prioritizing my health
*spending quality time with family and friends
*& much more.
In 2014 I will be saying NO to the following:
*worry
*fear
*comparison
*negativity
*perfectionism
*too much screen time
*overindulgence
*guilt
*ungratefulness
*gluten
*& much more.
2013 has been a wonderful year. I have loved reflecting over the highlights and counting all of the gifts. I have been thankful to look back on the moments that were difficult and see God's sovereignty in the midst of what appeared at the time to be a foggy season. I know God has so much in store for us for 2014. Our Christmas Cards this year were designed by the lovely Jessi from Naptime Diaries. The verse that inspired the design is Ephesians 3:20:
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to the power that is at work within us…"
With His guidance, let's plan and dream for 2014.
How amazing is it to know He is able to do immeasurably more than we could ever ask or imagine?
To Him be the glory!
I wish y'all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
I love the idea of listing what you are saying "yes" and "no" to. I like that it's a streamlined way to bring focus to what is really important.
ReplyDeleteI really really enjoyed it for that reason too! So often I have focused on what I was going to change in the upcoming year… Rather than a "yes" or "no" mindset. Highly recommend you try it! :)
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