As 2022 closes out, I once again observe the spectrum of attitudes about another revolution we’ve made around the sun together. They range from optimism and relief of a new year approaching to animosity over the notion to the point of cynicism of change.
The truth is, I love this time of year. It reminds us to take inventory, celebrate where appropriate, and learn where required – if we’re humble and wise enough. You can make your resolutions, yearly goals, or vision boards, but this isn’t intended to be a Pinterest post for ideas of any of those tools. What I do want to offer are the necessary questions I believe we should all consider as we look into the next year, regardless of how you may choose to organize your ambitions.
Consider unpacking these questions, maybe even journaling them out…
General Life Goals…
- What would I have done in 2022 that I didn’t do?
- What would I quit if able to in 2023?
- If all my plans fall apart in this year besides one thing, what would I prioritize?
- What advice would I give someone else in my exact situation?
- What are the small pieces I can achieve toward bigger goals?
- How will I make modest improvement this first week (rather than the year)?
- What new skill will I commit a minimum of 3 months to develop and evaluate?
- Who do I want to be in 10 years, and what would it look like to aim for that this year?
Spiritual Growth…
- What can I trust God with that I shouldn’t be carrying?
- If I’m not already, which church will I commit to serving and belonging to?
- What is a single fruit of the Spirit I should focus on more this year?
- Will I consider fasting at some point this year?
- How will I be more faithful in my generosity?
- Who has God put in my life for accountability I should reach out to?
- Who has God put in my life to share my faith with?
- Who has God put in my life to disciple/mentor me in my current season?
- Who has God put in my life for me to disciple/mentor in this current season?
Relationship Goals…
- (Single) If I want to find a spouse, how will I go about looking?
- (Single) If I want a spouse, how I be the kind of person that would attract someone I’d like to marry?
- (Single) If I don’t intend to marry any time soon, who will I do life with to be my best self?
- (Married) How will I love my spouse as Christ loves the church?
- (Married) When will I take my spouse on our next date, and where?
- If I have kids, what do I want to help them achieve in this next season?
- Who have I not forgiven that I need to forgive?
- Who do I owe an apology to?
- What boundaries should I maintain or establish?