Our Goals for the New Year

Most years, my husband Greg and I talk through our goals for the new year. These have included larger dreams with longer timelines as well as short-term practical applications, especially during the years we were raising our sons. I don’t define goals as resolutions. A resolution, or a firm decision to change, tends to be broken more often than not. Inc. Magazine reports that 91% of us won’t achieve our New Year’s resolutions. But a good goal is measurable and achievable with the identification of tiny steps to the completion of that goal.

There were many years when we weren’t so organized, laying out our goals in categories. We would identify a few main goals, usually including financial, travel and projects for the kids. Our work goals were usually kept separate, communicated with the organizations we were affiliated. ?In this article we will cover six areas: financial, relationships, network, fitness and recreation, spiritual and family. Get the free worksheet download here.

One: Financial

This year on Black Friday, buy now - pay later options jumped 78% compared to the previous week according to Adobe Analytics data. This means more debt. With rising inflation and the holiday season upon us, credit card debt stands to be on the rise. That type of debt can trap you to where you end up paying off mostly fees and not the actual purchase. (read more...)

Two: Relationships

We have watched the journey of our parents and their friends. There used to be lots of get-togethers then either some families would move away or spouses and friends would die. This created a void for recreational activities. Looking at them, we never thought we’d run out of friends. After all, we’ve been involved in church groups and other organizations. But times change. (read more...)

Three: Network

How many organizations are you a part of? The end of a year is a good time to evaluate all your organizations. Are they worth your time and effort and involvement? If you’re part of an organization’s leadership, are you clear on their mission and message and is it aligned with your core values? Your time is actually the most valuable resource you have. It’s worth more than just money. Evaluate carefully.

Four: Fitness and Recreation

Health and fitness continue to escalate in importance as we age. (see article below) A combination of cardio and weight-bearing exercises is important for all ages. Most can keep this routine up even through their 60’s, 70’s and even 80’s. The worst thing you can do is to not move.

Five: Spiritual

Any time you visit a gravesite, you realize we will all end up labeled with a tombstone at some point. It makes you think more about the meaning of life and what the future really holds. For years I have taken the time to have a morning devotional using a Bible, which is still the most-read book in the world. ?In the past 50 years, the Bible has sold over 3.9 billion copies. I personally love the Psalms and Proverbs. Whether you spend time in prayer or meditation, find some way to associate yourself with a higher power.

Six: Family

At this point in our life we have adult kids and our relationship with them looks different than years ago. We also have two sons getting married this next year, adding family members. Part of our yearly travel is scheduling in extra times to visit as that is important to us, and we feel encouraging to them. Our role is more to watch their journey at this point instead of parenting. But we are always available for advice!?(see article below)

I hope you spend some time not only identifying your goals, whether individually or with your spouse or significant other. Create small stepping stones to experience steps along the way. Next year, you’ll be glad you did!

Articles and Books of Interest

• How to Encourage Each Other as Friends, Colleagues and Spouses
• Importance of Exercise
• Authentic High Energy
• Do Adult Children Need Parenting or Do They Need a Partner?
• Tiny Habits as a Way of Life with Linda Fogg Phillips
• Book: Atomic Habits
• Book: Tiny Habits
• FREE Goal Setting Worksheets: Goal Setting

Listen to this episode and get the full article & experience?- including other resources!

The Hosts

GREG joins DEBORAH?as a co-host on?Women at Halftime Podcast?once a month.

GREG JOHNSON?is a former professional athlete, a triple A relief-pitcher with the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) He also has years of experience in sales and as an R.I.A. (Registered Investment Advisor), owning his own business. He & Deb met on a blind date and have been married over 40 years.

DEBORAH JOHNSON, M.A.?has 25+ years working as an entertainer, composer, producer, author and speaker. Her keynote, "The Hero Inside" stirs audiences to not settle for merely playing as an accompanist to their dreams. Rather, it is to call upon everything they have inside to be soloist & center stage in pursuing & accomplishing their dreams and potential. This can include pursuing a new avenue or expanding on a current area of business, especially at mid-career or the halftime of life. Get more free downloads & links at:?DJWorks. Websites:?DeborahJohnsonSpeaker.com; GoalsForYourLife.com; DJWorksMusic.com