There is something refreshing about a new start. Everyone loves when the new year comes! It’s a time for a clean slate, a hit to the “restart button,” and we get to look forward to what is to come in 2017.
This can be super exciting, but also very scary. I am one who absolutely loves change. As years go on, I have realized that many people do not. Even though it brings a lot of uncertainty and can be hard at times, I still love it. That’s what keeps life exciting!

Sometimes certain circumstances bring you change that you did not ask for, but there also are times when you are the one who is making changes happen. I think in order for anyone to grow, change needs to come. We need to be stretched, grown, and molded into who we are destined to be.

In this new year, there have been so many goals that I want to reach and accomplish, in all aspects of my life. I’m sure you have made some too. But if you ‘fail to plan, you plan to fail.‘ I think it is important to remember that we all may have goals, but we need to create practical steps in reaching those goals or we are planning to fail.

For example, If I have a goal of reading at least one book a month, I can not just write down that goal and expect myself to do it. I need to then think of little steps that will help me reach that goal. Here are some steps I could implement to reach that goal:

1. Set a time of day that will be the most effective time to read
2. Set an alarm on my phone to go off for that time
3. Turn off phone, TV, etc. and remove as many distractions as possible
4. Set a minimum time limit of reading (at least 20min everyday)

This is just an example, but thinking of practical steps to reach each of your goals is vital to accomplishing them. I know things happen, and you won’t always reach or do these mini goals everyday, but it is important to try! When you mess up (because we are not perfect), just start right back up again the next day. Don’t wallow in the fact that you messed up.

When I want to beat myself up, I just think of the mercy of God who always forgives me when I miss up, and apply the same concept to reaching my goals. If we have every intention not to mess up, then its ok when we do. Give yourself Grace! Press through and keep moving on no matter what happens. 2017 will have ups and downs, but it will be your best year yet if you PLAN accordingly and DON’T GIVE UP!

The best thing you can do is have your goals in a place where you will SEE THEM EVERYDAY. When I do not have my goals out and in front of me, that day is usually very unproductive. It is proven that people who have their goals written out or a vision board made, in plain sight, will accomplish more goals than the people who do not.

So if you don’t know where to start, start by writing out everything you want to accomplish in 2017. Then go back and write at least 3 practical steps in reaching each of those goals. If you want to stay inspired, cut out things from magazines of what you want to do or accomplish and glue them onto a big paper or board. This is great, especially if you are more of a visual person (I am, and need to make one ASAP!).

Well I hope this helps in some way! If you have any tips you want to share or found this helpful, leave a comment below! I pray that you accomplish above and beyond what you set for yourself this year. May 2017 bring you lots of joy, hope, and excitement!!!

Much Joy,

Charity HOPE

P.S. I really am trying to read at least one book a month! …I need to stick to my steps I made before this month is over. Can you tell I am preaching to myself in this blog post!?!?! LOL