This post has been on pause for 2 and a half months, but as I approach a new month I’ll share a few tips that have been consistent in my routine.
Though I can talk myself into doing anything, ‘starting’ seems most difficult. I’ve seen ‘DO IT ANYWAY’, ‘DO IT AFRAID’ all other but when a close friend of mine reiterated that same theme, then I knew I had to move to action.
New Years resolutions were never something I felt only took place in January, but a fresh month coupled with a new year does seem to bring on a sense of renewal and change. So for this, the 2023rd year, I’ll let you in on a couple of goals that I have on my list that you could try to adapt if you struggle to find some of your own.
I’ve got simple expectations of this year and the only one I am determined to see through is following God’s lead. Here is the list that will gently guide my year into the direction on peace, growth and fulfillment.
Spiritually
This is a no brainer for those who know me, I’m always trying to grow in my relationship with God however being consistent is the struggle point. I plan to:
- Spend at least 15 minutes on the Youversion.com Bible app daily. I’m determined to maintain a semi perfect steak this year.
- Do weekly devotionals and/or prayer meeting with friends. Having an accountability partner makes all the difference.
- Have a prayer corner. My Prayer corner consists of two pillows, blankets, a candle along side my journals and bibles. It’s not fancy, just cozy. Its away from distractions and not in an area that I might fall asleep. Its my desire to pray more,
- Attend Bible Study or a connecting group at church. I’m still in the searching phase but I do think I have found a discussion group that I really enjoy. There are also Singles groups, Newly wed groups, new converts, young adult groups, and just plain Bible Study. The list goes on, just attend one, and if you like it, continue to go.
Emotionally/Mentally
This is second as I believe it flows in that direction. Spending time with God and others help us to regulate our emotions so that our highs are not so high, and the low don’t feel like Marianna trench. A few ways I plan to facilitate emotional growth include:
- Call my family members and friends, at least once a week. I often get caught up in texting or sharing meme but neglect to call and spend time with them. They mean a lot to me and hearing their voices makes a whole lot of difference especially when you’re living a lone and far away.
- Go outside. Take a walk. Go for a drive. Do not spend the entire week inside a building. Get some sun and fresh air. To ensure I do this, I’ll be going to the farmers market twice a month. Their eggs are so much more delicious and strolling throw the park is a nice change of pace that is needed for me.
- Journal. Write down your thoughts and emotions. I love new books, so this might be an excuse to fill my house with books but hear me out. Writing it down and out (of your system) sorta relieves the stressor in some ways. Your brain doesn’t ruminant on it as much, It works form me, so give it a try.. There are some prompt journals out that others swear by but I like a clean book ready to receive my words though random. You could also google daily prompts for mindful and intentional journaling if you need more structure.
- Read/listening (audio) books. I’ve always loved books, but I’ve recently been finding it hard to sit and read. I’d fall asleep, my brain wonders off or I’d simply get distracted by random thoughts. So the act of reading hasn’t been as enjoyable as it use to be nevertheless, I am determined to make it happen. So I plan to read 1 book a month. This is an easy goal, and I’ve since completed one book so far for January and I am try to finish my second book before the new month. I cheated a bit as the first book was ‘listened’ to via audible. But a win is a win. Audible and other platforms like it are great ways to be engaged with books while leading busy lifestyles. I can wash the dishes, cook, take a drive while listening to my book of choice. I still hold the belief that there is nothing like cozying down to a nice book in hand however, some of us gotta work our way back to that. Subscription is pretty affordable and you can end it at any time.
- Learn something new. Hear me out! Hear me out! This seems like a lot to hope for in the new year HOWEVER, it’s doable in small bite size bits. I plan to continue learning Spanish. I do so via Duolingo. Its an interactive platform that gets you recalling and reciting thus gradually building your vocabulary. I aim to use the platform form 10 minutes daily. This could be that same for learning to play a new instrument, or any other area of interest. Dedicate 10 minutes a day and it’ll make a whole lot of difference.
Physically
Move your body daily or try to exercise weekly.
At first I was hesitant as I felt like I didn’t have enough time in the day to do anything other than what I’ve been doing. However after my mentor offered to take me as a guest to her gym, so I decided to just go on ahead and join. Talk about cold turkey! Start small, do ten jumping jacks, run around your apartment building once daily, or even find a nice Youtube channel that’s all specializes about health and fitness. But moving your body lifts your mood and somehow energizes you afterwards.
Whatever you decide to accomplish this year, lets strike off the goals and check the accomplishments!
Lets get it done together!!
What were some of your 2023 goals? Have you started? Are you being consistent? Lets talk about it in the comments below.
Until then, stay blessed