The start of a new year is always a great time to reflect, reset, and set intentions for what’s ahead. Whether you’re thinking about personal growth, family life, or faith, a new year resolution can provide a fresh opportunity to take on what matters most.
But setting the right resolutions takes more than just a list of things you’d like to change – it's about creating goals that inspire and move you toward a more meaningful future, and toward the vision of life God has for you.
Why are new year resolutions important?
A resolution is a commitment to do something that will improve your life. But resolutions aren’t just about making promises to yourself – they're about taking action toward growth. Keep in mind that setting realistic goals is key! But what’s the best way to set realistic goals that you’ll be celebrating by the end of next year?
Make your new year resolution SMART
A helpful goal-setting framework you can apply to your new year resolution is the SMART method. This approach helps make sure your goals are clearly defined and achievable. Here’s what that looks like:
- Specific: Your goal should be clear and focused. Instead of saying “I want to get healthier,” try saying “I will exercise for 30 minutes every day.”
- Measurable: How will you track your progress? If you want to save money, give yourself a framework such as, “I will save $200 per month for the next six months.”
- Attainable: We’re all for shooting for the moon, but if a goal is too far out of reach you may get discouraged and give up. Come up with something that’s realistic for your starting point but challenges you.
- Relevant: What’s important to you? If your goals don’t connect with your values or what you’ve sensed God has put on your heart, you’re less likely to follow through.
- Time-Bound: Set a clear timeline for achieving your goal. If you don’t have a deadline it can easily get pushed aside.
With these principles in mind, let’s look at how you can apply them to your new year resolutions.
New year resolution ideas
The good news is you can set a New Year’s Resolution for just about anything. But if you suffer from analysis paralysis and find yourself overwhelmed by the possibilities, here are a few different areas you can set goals, and some ideas to help get you thinking!
1. Spiritual growth
One of the most fulfilling areas to focus on for your New Year resolutions is spiritual growth. Whether you’re new to faith or looking to strengthen your relationship with God, there are countless ways to prioritize your faith in the new year. Here are some ideas:
- Join a Group to grow alongside others in faith and personal relationships.
2. Health & wellness
Taking care of your physical health can help you live more fully and make the most of your time with family and friends. As you think about health and wellness, remember that small, realistic changes add up over time. Here are some resolutions to consider:
- Aim for more movement – take a walk each morning or evening.
- Focus on hydration by drinking more water each day.
- Start habits that will help you get better sleep, like turning off screens in the evening or going to bed earlier.
3. Relationships
God didn’t design us to live life alone – he created us to thrive in community. That’s why relationships are so important! And a New Year’s resolution focused on strengthening your relationship with your kids, family, or friends can bring a greater sense of fulfillment and care to your life. You might try:
- Be intentional about reaching out to friends and loved ones more often.
4. Finances
Financial health is an important part of living a balanced, purposeful life. Setting financial goals can help reduce stress and give you the peace of mind to focus on what’s most important. Some ideas for financial resolutions include:
- Eliminate debt by paying off a specific balance by the end of the year.
5. Personal growth
Personal growth goals can help you grow into the person God created you to be. These resolutions focus on your passions, your career, and your gifts. Consider these:
- Read a certain number of books each month to grow your knowledge.
6. New Year’s Resolutions for kids
Don’t forget to include your kids in the process! Setting resolutions as a family can be a fun way to encourage teamwork and growth. Here are a few new year’s resolutions for kids that can teach valuable life lessons:
- Start a new spiritual habit like reading the Bible or praying.
- Develop a new hobby or interest, like learning an instrument or starting a craft.
- Commit to helping around the house more by cleaning up after meals or organizing toys.
- Have a goal for kindness, like performing one act of kindness each week.
Make your new year resolutions matter
Let this be the year you take meaningful steps to live out God’s purpose for your life, and make sure to celebrate every win, bit of small, along the way. Remember that God is with you as you take intentional steps to grow!
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Feeling stuck in your goals? Here’s some advice on getting un-stuck and moving forward!
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