Resolutions vs. Goals

In 2014, did I stick with my resolutions? No! Instead, I started writing goals for myself that would be realistic and a part of my daily routine. So what do resolutions or goals have to do with God, Jesus, and Faith? Well, from my experience, I never stuck with resolutions, like losing weight, eating healthy, being happy and positive, and networking with new people.  Instead of making a list of resolutions, I had some goals in mind that I would like to tackle for the New Year.

My first goal is to have a closer relationship with God. Several articles that I wrote, I recalled of being closer to God because I am able to trust and to know that I am not alone, because He is always there for me. Even though, I get side tracked or have a not-so-good-day, I have to remind myself to focus on Him.

My second goal is to be able to show kindness and peace to people. This goal is a struggle for me because of how I have treated people in the past, by bringing the worst out of myself in easily getting angry and jealous, instead of showing my caring and loving side of myself. I will admit, I feel humiliated from this ego that I have. I tend to avoid people, so I don’t have to deal with them. However, these people could change their minds and leave, without getting to know me. They may get this impression of me as a woman who is very insecure about herself, not nice to herself, and unable to handle the situations in her life because she feels needy. To add, I never took the time to say this phrase each morning – Thank You God for today! What I learned is that there are resources and people who I can talk to about my challenges, whether emotional, mental, and/or physical. In this case, God is testing me so that I can fix these situations, and I can, though I sometimes cut myself short.

My last goal for me is making time for myself. I always hear that saying – Put yourself first! I’m in my thirties and gradually, little by little, I'm volunteering my time, and that has made me happy, though I get tired and exhausted, I do feel rewarded. For example, I read Scriptures in the Bible, and the Catechism. I visited a convalescent home and interacted with the elderly. I helped at a Food Bank, and served food at a homeless shelter. I volunteered at a pet shelter, and attend church activities and events. These examples are teaching me to not feel pity for myself, instead of being blessed and thankful of what I have in my life. Also, to know that my life isn’t that bad, and to fulfill myself with happiness.

So 2015,  instead of making resolutions for myself, I hope my goals will help me to be happier, by having an open heart and mind, so I can feel the kindness and peace within myself.

Amen!