Goals for 2015

The lovely graphic is by Abby at Little Birdie Blessings

Now I guess I can finally focus on just what my general goals for 2015 will be.  I've done lots of thinking and praying; I've reflected on last year and thought about needs for the coming year.  I've reminded myself of God's purposes for my life and His particular job assignment for me.  I've considered areas where I need to grow and change.  I've chosen a word for the year.  Again this year, I've chosen six categories in which to set goals.  So now, without further ado, here are my

GOALS FOR 2015

Personal growth:  Work on character qualities of unselfishness, kindness, compassion, perseverance, and self-control. Work at eliminating the time-wasting habit of procrastination.  Read through the  Bible using the reading plan I've chosen (which takes you through the entire Bible once, and through the New Testament and Psalms twice.  Read at least 12 books.  Continue working on my "What Do I Know About My God?" Scripture notebook.  Memorize Scripture on a weekly basis, meditate on it daily, and finish several Bible studies.  Strengthen my computer skills.  Make this the year I finally take that painting course or some online art courses.  Nurture creativity.

Health (physical, mental, and emotional):  Exercise at least 5 times per week.  Get enough water, sleep, fresh air, and sunshine.  Cook and eat with health in mind.  Work on a different healthy habit each month so that in general, I'm taking better care of myself.  Do something creative or craft-related every day.  Journal and write as often as possible.  Cultivate the habit of gratitude.  Seek to be joyful every day and keep my eyes open for the little things that make each day special.

Marriage/family life: Plan periodic getaways.  Take the best possible care of my husband and help him in every way possible.  Take advantage of every moment together.  Take time for dates.  Plan fun family activities.  Minister to my family with the gift of a peaceful, orderly home (translation: declutter the entire house and get back to my homemaking routines!) Plan trip to visit faraway family, if at all possible.

Money matters:  Spend less on groceries on a weekly basis.  Put time into my A-store.   Prayerfully get an Etsy shop up and running if I feel God is leading in that direction.  Plan and prepare items to sell at craft fairs this fall.  Consider doing some writing for paying publication.

Relationships outside the home:  Be more of an encourager to my elderly dad and also to my daughters, friends, and the ladies in my Sunday School class.  Prayerfully fulfill my eldercare responsibilities, seeking God's guidance in them.  Stay in better touch with faraway friends and family.  Make myself available to help and encourage those who are nearby.  Continue blogging as a means of encouragement to other ladies.

Ministry:  Deepen my prayer life, praying faithfully for those with deep needs, praying more regularly for my pastor.  Finish teaching a class on prayer and seek to encourage each lady to be the prayer warrior God would have her to be.  Start another study, probably in February, with the ladies, and teach other studies as the Lord leads throughout the year.  Write or re-write another kids' devotional book for summer use by our church's Patch the Pirate Club sailors.  Continue cleaning the church with my hubby once per month. 


Word for 2015: RENEWAL


What are some of your goals for the new year?