It’s the start of a new year and you’re full of hope and expectations for the months ahead. Like lots of folks, you’re thinking about something(s) you’d like to change in your life.
Maybe you’d like to:
Lose weight.
Save money.
Get out of debt.
Write a book.
Reconcile with a friend.
Redecorate your home.
Find more peace and joy.
Or something else…
Whatever it is, change isn’t easy.
Often, we have big ideas at the start January and then lack the get-up-and-go to actually do something.
Or, we’re so busy with the crazy life we have that we don’t make time for anything else—and yet the longing remains for things to be different and better.
Despite the obstacles, transformation is truly possible. It starts with identifying what is holding you back. So I created the acronym TERMS to help you find the reasons that true change has eluded you.
T (Time) – You simply don’t have time, or don’t make the time to reflect on your life. What do you REALLY want? What does God want for you? Make change a priority in increments and take a bit of time—or a block of time—to start the process.
E (Energy) – You are tired or stressed and exhaustion has been keeping you from making changes in your life. Eating healthier and getting more sleep—along with drinking enough water—are ways to get some energy back. Think about what you can delete from your schedule to get more rest and begin to make some life changes.
R (Resources) – You don’t have the money or other resources to make the changes you want. But that doesn’t have to stop you. Perhaps there are other creative solutions, or ways God will provide.
M (Motivation) – You might have the time and the resources, but for some reason you’re not motivated to make a change. You’re not excited about it or inspired. Perhaps it’s time to get a new goal. Or, be a grownup and do the thing you simply don’t want to do because it will be good in the end.
S (Something else) – Other things that may be keeping you from making changes could be: You fear the unknown. You fear failure. You fear success. You don’t have the skills you need. Or (fill in the blank).
Now that you’ve identified some ways that are keeping you from making changes, it’s time to pray, make a plan and take action.
Prayer is key because that’s where the power comes from. You don’t have to do this life in your own strength. It’s God’s power at work in us and through us that makes real and lasting changes. He is the engine to your boat. And He wants you to succeed!
Ask God to help you make a plan and prioritize: What needs to change? Where do you start? How can you find the resources you need to get where you really want to go? And what action steps do you need to take to get there?
Then, take action. Do something. Take one small step at a time. Don’t freak yourself out by trying to do too much at once.
Momentum builds as you take one step, and then another.
May God give you the time, energy, resources, motivation—and all you need to make changes in your life. May He give you the power and strength, and open doors for great opportunities. He is for you. He is with you.
Step by step. Choice by choice. Day by day things start to change, and you are closer to what you truly desire.