I hate New Year’s resolutions!  The problem is that they are usually too big (and vague).

Lose 100 lbs.  Run a marathon.  Write a book.  Blah, blah, blah.

I learned a long time ago that small, incremental changes in behavior lead to more sustainable accomplishments.  So my plans for 2017 are going to change throughout the year because I plan to have many small goals that will be checked off as they are met, thus being replaced by new goals.

I am a huge fan, however, of focusing on just One Word for the entire year.  One Word that provides constant encouragement and reminds me of what I’m supposed to be striving toward.

Proverbs 16:9 reads, “We plan the way we want to live, but only God makes us able to live it.”

Making my plans for 2017 is one thing.  It’s a good thing.  But remembering that my effort alone is not going to be enough to succeed.  I must lean into God and ask him for accountability.

My One Word, then, for the next year will be to REACH!

Reaching requires stretching.  It can relate to reaching a goal, or the the effort in striving toward something.  As it relates to the Proverbs passage above, I must constantly remember that it is the Lord who is lifting me up to help my reaching connect with my intended target or goal.

I have found that focusing on just a couple of goals at a time works best.  So here’s what I plan to begin with.

Start eating much healthier with intentionality

Stop eating in the evenings

What is something you need to START and STOP?  Comment below.  Also, don’t miss another of my posts.  Click HERE to subscribe!