January 22, 2018

INTENTIONS FOR 2018.



Some may call them resolutions, others may call them goals, but I like to call them intentions. My hope isn't to achieve or cross these items off of a to-do list, but rather, to be more intentional about these areas in my life. I want to grow and improve, not necessarily conquer (and later forget about). So here's to a new year and a reminder that every day is a new day, with new beginnings and opportunities.

1. COMMUNICATE HONESTLY AND WITH GRACE.
Communication has never been an easy thing for me. And God's truly humbled me in the past month by opening my eyes to some of my unintentional bad communication habits. I tend to avoid confrontation, but in doing so, I'm setting myself--as well as those around me--up for failure, disappointment, and frustration. So I'm trying more and more to speak openly, vulnerably, and with love. I need to speak my needs, feelings, and expectations especially if I want others to do the same with me.

2. SLOW DOWN AND RELISH THE PRESENT. 
This is always a goal of mine, but in the past year, I've been much more intentional about it (and have actually made progress, too!). I've been leaving work earlier, spending more time on and for myself, and most importantly, I no longer feel guilty about doing that! Time is precious and I want to make the most of the time I've got--not just the years here on earth, but the seasons God's placed me in, too.

3. CURATE, NOT COLLECT.
Last month helped me realize my love for curated objects. When my family asked me what I wanted for Christmas and my birthday and I didn't have an answer. I'm blessed in that my income supplies my basic needs and I have an allowance to spend on myself, too. I've been focusing less on stuff lately and more on experiences and learning opportunities. More books, more cooking, more hiking, and as I say each year, possibly more traveling, too???

4. TAKE CHANCES. 
I used to live life with a lot of regret--living in fear and in the land of "what if's." In the past two years, I've discovered an adventurous soul that was once hidden underneath fear. God's called me to live bravely--feet planted firmly in Him--and I've found that tackling challenges and fears brings about an energized sense of life, faith, and hope.

5. DO MORE OF WHAT MAKES ME HAPPY.
This is the one I really need to be intentional about this year. It's pretty closely tied to slowing down and enjoying the present, but I want to make sure that I'm spending my resources on things that bring joy and life. This year, I'm focusing on my relationships, free time, and money.

What are your goals/intentions for 2018?

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© IN ITS TIMEMaira Gall