Writing to his friends, many of which start well but veer off having lost their way, the Apostle Paul says, “Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it.” Philippians 3:16 MSG
So, how can we keep on track for an entire year? I can hear some of you questioning incredulously, “Keep on track for an entire year?!?!”
Yes! That is what I’m proposing for you brave friends who have selected ONE WORD, ONE VERSE, and crafted a SIMPLE PLAN for your BEST YEAR EVER 2021.
The idea of keeping on track doesn’t mean you never get off track. Keeping on track means you have a few guardrails in place going into 2021 to literally help you keep on track.
Here are a few tips for this marathon year you’re undertaking:
Begin Each Day With God
As part of your daily morning time with God review your simple plan and make a shortlist of things you intend to do that day. This way you invite God into it from the get-go as you ask Him to help you stay on track.
Adjust as Needed
Adjust means when you become aware you’ve been chasing a rabbit trail, you get BACK on track as soon as possible. This will help you maintain momentum and make allowance for your humanity.
Embrace Accountability
Ask a trusted friend to be your check-in partner for 2021. Share with them your desire to keep on track with your life. Tell them about your word, verse, and simple plan.
Ask if they will have a 15-minute conversation with you every week. Explain that you want them to ask you to answer these questions:
1. What did you do from the big items on your list for last week? Go over the big items on your list for last week that you DID. This is not storytelling. It is as simple as reading a shopping list where you line off items as you toss them in the cart.
The big idea here is to review with your check-in partner and yourself, “This is what I started out to do last week and this is what I did.”
2. What are the big items on your list for this week? Talk about the big-ticket items on your list for this coming week. A bit of storytelling is OK just so long as you leave time for the final question…
3. What might be difficult about this next week? This is the BEST question as it will help you anticipate rabbit trails or obstacles that might discourage or distract you.
Conclude the remainder of your time asking how things have been going with your friend and asking how you can pray for him–then, as I like to say, “Can I pray both of us out the door?”
When it comes right down to it, it’s up to you to make your list and stay on track, or adjust and get back on track.
This is the only way to avoid drift and keep on track for the entire year.
___________________
PRAY WITH ME
Here we go, God! This is where the rubber meets the road–where my good intentions are put to the test. It’s daunting and it’s new and I’m a bit afraid I don’t have what it takes. Steady me to take it one day at a time. Remind me that You are in me, with me, and for me. Help me adjust without shame or guilt. Guide me to a trusted friend to check-in weekly. Amen
PS My good friend Dr. Parker Houston writes, “Harvard research by Gail Matthews shows that you are significantly more likely to achieve your goals when you have a written plan, clear action steps, and regular accountability.”
Best-Year-Ever Resources
One Word & One Verse
A Simple Plan
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.