The week between Christmas and New Year’s, I traditionally set aside time for “reflection and projection.” I spend this time reflecting on the previous year and considering and project my goals for the coming year. Practicing biblical wellness encourages setting goals in every area of your life–body, soul, mind, and spirit. (Mark 12:30-31) You may have done the same. How are you doing with your goals?
An essential part of goal keeping is writing out your goals and sharing those goals – here goes!
My Goals for The New Year
MY BODY
Working closely with my rheumatologist, he encourages me to keep my weight on the lower end of my healthy weight range for joint health. That means I have some work to do. It is also important that I keep my body strong by developing and maintaining my muscle mass and bone density. My plan:
- Eat to fuel my body.
- Track my food and eating habits.
- Be accountable to someone. Thank you, Lisa and Helen, for being great partners.
- Exercise 6 times a week – I teach fitness classes four times a week and just added a 5th.
- Rest well. I can’t keep up this pace without restorative rest. Part of my Sabbath is taking one day a week off from exercise. It helps my body to recover. And 7 to 8 hours of sleep is essential for me! God does beautiful work in our bodies and spirits when we take the time for Sabbath.
MY MIND
I have four books on my nightstand right now that I need to finish; two books on leadership, one on shame research, and one on the power of community. All are full of information that will be helpful to me. I enjoy reading way more than television or scrolling. I just have trouble finishing! My plan:
- Finish these books by March 1.
- Apply what I learn to leading First Place for Health.
MY HEART
I have three beautiful, Godly daughters-in-law. My emotional goal for this year is to become a student of these women. I have much to learn from them. My plan:
- Look for opportunities to serve and love them through these exciting days.
- Offer encouragement and assistance without interfering.
MY SOUL
This is a hard one. I traditionally set a goal of having a daily quiet time, which is a noble goal. But I know I need more – something deeper. My spiritual goal for this year is to know and comprehend the love God has for me through His Son, Christ Jesus. My Plan:
- Going deeper, going longer, lingering in His presence. I am not sure any of us can fully comprehend the love of Christ, but my goal is to KNOW Him and His love in a more intimate way. (Phil. 3:10)
It’s a new day. It is never too late to start again. Press on toward the goal to win the prize. Christ and His power are working in us and through us. (Phi. 4:13) It’s important, and it matters.
Where are you and your goals for the new year?
Stay with It,
Vicki
Vicki Heath is the National Director of First Place for Health. Vicki is a certified fitness instructor for the American Council on Exercise, a certified life coach, and Wellness Coordinator for her church in Edisto Beach, SC. Vicki is an author of the books Don’t Quit Get Fit, Wellness Journey of a Lifetime, and My First Place. She strives to bring others into the Kingdom through health and wellness.