Are you a habitual resolution-setter? Are they not your thing? Perhaps you’re the “word of the year” type. There’s value in each of those choices.
But if you’re looking for something a little different as we head into this new year, you might just find your answer here.
Setting a resolution for 365 days is admirable, but how often do we give up by February? Maybe even earlier? I’m looking at you, “no sugar” from 2016.
On the other hand, resolutions can often improve our lives, even if we don’t make it to December 31.
So what to do?
Monthly Challenges
Instead of trying to last 365 days on one pursuit, try doing 12 different challenges for ~30 days. This does two things. First, it makes each goal more attainable. Second, it also allows you to make improvements in multiple areas of your life, versus just one area.
To help you get started, I’m going to issue a monthly challenge on the blog on the first of each month. You can opt to do the challenge I’ve set, or you can pick your own. Some of these goals will only take a few minutes, while others might be a daily commitment. No matter.
The point is to make a promise to yourself and keep that proimse. This increases the likelihood of attaining future goals, which reinforces our own integrity. After all, honesty with ourselves is just as important as honesty with others.
Okay, so are you ready for January’s challenge? Here it is:
Make a Donation
You know that box of gently used clothing and unused toys that’s been sitting in your hall for a month? (Anyone else? Or is that just me?) Donate it.
You can donate it to Goodwill, a local charity, a friend who actually wants it, or any organization of your choice. There’s a local association in my town that raises money for scholarships at Free-Hardeman University, where my husband coaches. We always donate there first. Then, we donate elsewhere.
This is an easy challenge because it doesn’t require you to donate every day. But it’s an important symbol of cleaning out the old and making space for the new.
You could even go above and beyond and make multiple donations. They don’t have to be unwanted objects, either. You can make a financial donation to the charity of your choice. If you have a particular skill or talent, you could donate your services to someone in need. Whatever you choose, donate something this month.
Don’t go thinking all the challenges will be this easy, though! I’ve got a list, and I’m eager to share them.
I would love to hear from you! If you complete the first challenge, shoot me an email or comment below.
Here’s to finding joy in 2022 through nourishing and edifying practices. Happy New Year!