Preparing For The New Year

With the new year just a few days away, it always helps to get into it in a proactive rather than reactive way. By taking a bit of time to prepare ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually for what lies ahead, we’re less likely to get frustrated, blindsided or panicked.

Take stock.

Review the previous year honestly. What were the high points and how can you have more of those in the new year? What were the low points and what steps can be taken to avoid them this time round? What was lacking? What was in excess and how can you recalibrate to find the perfect balance?

Seek God’s will for this new year.

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs.19:21.

Once we acknowledge and accept the fact that we are simply stewards and the Lord holds the master plan, our lives become simpler and more enjoyable as we seek and submit to what He in His infinite wisdom has already pre-planned. Jeremiah.29:11 say For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope.

Knowing and believing that God’s plans for you are not evil or to harm you but rather to bring you prosperity, hope and a great future frees you from doubt and fear. Past experience has shown me that He knows best, loves me most and wants me to succeed. All He asks is that I hand Him the reins and follow His lead. So, ask Him to reveal to you His will, then listen and yield with full trust and faith.

Write down your vision for the new year.

Habakkuk.2:2 And the LORD answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it.

Write down your desires for this new year. Your vision for yourself and your family. What would you like to accomplish? How would you like your marriage to be? What about your relationship with your children? Your finances, friendships, physical health, emotional health and your walk with God. No facet of your life is off limits. No, it is not wishful thinking, it is step one in accomplishing your goals and having your desires fulfilled. Dream big and write it down. This will serve as your reference point all year to see how far you have come. It will serve as prayer points for how far you still need to go and for thanksgiving to God as you check off all that has been fulfilled and accomplished.

Credit: iStock | Mikolette

Make it a family affair.

Involve the whole family in some or all of these steps because you are doing life as a unit. Everyone brings their own unique perspective to the table and all contributions are welcome.

Check in.

Set a time every couple of months to check in and make sure you are still on course and haven’t veered off. That is why taking notes and writing this all down is important. Memory can be a fickle thing while a notebook or journal can be referenced accurately over and over.