Before the inspiration and magic of the new year wears off, I want to offer some words of wisdom and encouragement. (I just love playing catchup from all the illnesses my Kinder brings home.) But honestly, all of January is still a part of the "slow down, cozy up, think reflect, plan and rest" part of the year. I encourage you to embrace the magic of planning this time of year, but leave the hype of crushing those goals right away until the season for growth.
Have you thought about your hopes and dreams for 2025 yet?
I learned in 2023 that the goal really doesn't matter, it's who you become in the process.
In 2024, this quote became real life for me:
"Train yourself to let go of everything you fear to lose." — Yoda
I know. Star Wars?? What? But think about it. What outcome are you holding onto with a death grip? What are you fervently sweating over in your nightly prayers to God trying to talk Him around to seeing things your way and bringing about what you desire so deeply?
This year, I learned that you might not even end up wanting the goal even if you get it so it's better to find joy in what God is working out for you. No, I hear you. "But you don't understand, I NEEEEED this. I KNOW this will be what fixes everything." I said those things myself. I was careful and meticulous about thinking through AAALLL the reasons why THIS. THING. was the THING. I. NEEDED. TO. HAPPEN. GRUNT. THROUGH. GRITTED. TEETH.
But no. You need to LET. GO. PRIES OUT DEEPLY ROOTED BELIEF WITH SHOVEL
That's because you change as a person on the way to your goals so the person who achieves it is not the same person who wished for it. I'm sure God is shaking His head at me and my un-gratitude. He knew. I begged and pleaded. Silly me.
Not long after that lightbulb went on, I heard a song on the radio I hadn't heard in aaaaaages. Remember "Unanswered Prayers" by Garth Brooks? yep. "I got it. I GOT it!"
So this year, I'd encourage you to join me in reflecting on last year, just accepting what is and whatever will be, while still working on our purpose with intentionality. God expects us to make plans, He had a great plan, and He makes plans for us, so He knows we need plans. Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
If you haven't cozied up with your mind yet this winter, here are a few questions you might find helpful to ponder: *hint: grab.a journal.
- What worked in 2024? (Success leaves clues)
- What seeds of intention do I want to plant this year? Are they aligned with God’s purpose for my life?
- What weeds do I need to pull? (Think of habits, mindsets, or commitments that no longer serve you.)
- How can I better tend to my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual garden?
- Where can I create boundaries to protect my energy and allow room for growth?
- Who or what can I invite into my life to help nurture this season of growth?