Resolutions are not just about food and exercise.

Whether caregiver or busy parent, you may feel you have passed the time of resolving to make changes. After all, been there-done that! And, you may realize there just is no extra time or energy to give to another project.

And yet, a new year signifies new birth; a chance to begin again. Finding a simple, doable goal is like a dangling carrot in front of you; something to strive for; something to work toward.

Here are three helps to making resolutions doable.  Note: be sure to read the paragraphs following this list for some ideas on resolutions you can keep!
1. Spend a few minutes looking over your last year; what one thing would you change that could make this year go smoother? One thing, not two or three, just one. Would it be finding time for some personal endeavor, learning more about caregiving, understanding your role better? As best you can, determine what one thing has occupied your time and zapped your energy—your goal could be as simple as learning not to worry so much.
2. Begin with a short-term goal. Instead of resolving for the next year you will do such and such, begin with just one month at a time. You need to have an end in sight; a year is a long time to stay faithful to a goal. Reward yourself (perhaps not with chocolate shake and cookies) at the end of the month and start again the next month. You can increase your goal a bit if you have succeeded. Either way get ready for another exciting 30 day journey.
3. Find an accountability partner. This is so important. I have learned that, while I do not want to share everything with someone, I really do better if someone is there to hold me accountable for my actions. I have a friend whose gentle nudge helps me stay on track. She does not criticize; she just reminds me in some way of my goals and encourages my efforts. (Note: write me, I will be happy to walk along side you as you strive to reach your goals.)

Ideas for simple, yet life-changing goals..

a. If your goal is to accomplish something for yourself, schedule even fifteen minutes a day. For me, I have several new books I’m longing to read yet there is never enough time for such as that. So I am going to schedule myself fifteen minutes a day for reading my book. I will keep the book in a drawer by my easy chair and allow myself at least fifteen minutes of reading time. I know there will be days I can read more; however, even a few minutes will get me toward my goal.

b. If your goal is vague, let’s say for instance, you want to take better care of your parent, spouse, or other person you are caring for. Determine one thing you could do to become a better caregiver. I sought to learn more about my mother as I cared for her. As I begin to show a genuine interest in her as a person, she became easier to deal with. Meet the person where they are mentally, spiritually, physically.

c. If your goal is something about yourself, identify that. Are you a worrier? Is your goal to worry less? Then figure out what one thing you worry most about. Learn to daily put that one thing in God’s hands; He will take care of it and practice reminding yourself that it is in His hands and you can trust Him with the outcome.

I can sense some of my readers now: “Lady, if you just knew what I’m going through!” I know this, there is One who knows, who cares, and who provides.

Trusting Him to care for you. Let me hear from you, please.

Hugs,

Please leave a reply at the bottom of this article about your goals; I am anxious to hear them.