Hope Reflected

Encouragement and Hope from God's Word

Hope’s How-To Archive

Tuesday

1

March 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Facts About Trust

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Proverbs 3:5-6

You may not know this, but the world’s tallest man-made structure is the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Looking at it as a whole, you see this giant, sleek, 2,722 foot building – a mass of concrete, glass, and steel. Seldom would someone look at the building and wonder how it was constructed or what intricate equations and planning had to go into its creation.

That’s how it is with trust: Usually we look at trust from a whole perspective, and we don’t recognize that trust is actually built action by action, bit by bit. Over time, we learn to trust actions when we see someone’s character in motion. It is from this that the building blocks of trust are developed.

Two of my favourite virtues that God inspires are faith and trust. You might think that the two are similar, but here’s how they differ. Faith is, by definition, “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1, KJV) We base our faith on something that’s beyond our own logic (at least in the beginning). We base our trust on something we do know, that’s proven by character over time. So when God commands me to trust in Him, I should be able to do this without doubt or question, right?

Great concept, although trusting in someone or something is often easier said than done. Trust is a foundational element to any successful relationship (whether with man or God). If you have trust, you have one of the most important ingredients to claiming your joy and living your life to its fullest potential.

Here are three things that I know for sure about trust:

  1. Trust helps us grow. You know what they say about the man who’s driven by the waves and tossed about? Or the man who builds his house on the sand? When we put our trust in the right place – our Lord, – we’re opening the door for Him to work in our lives for His greater good. Jeremiah 17: 7-8 (KJV) says, “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green: and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.”
  2. Trust helps us strengthen relationships. It’s often said that you can’t have successful relationships if you don’t have trust. And how do we build trust? Action by action, day by day. When we open our hearts and let others prove their character, we develop trust, and trust builds healthier, stronger relationships. Proverbs 31 (KJV) says of the virtuous woman that, “The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.” Trust is a two-way street: It is earned, and it is an effort.
  3. Trust helps us move forward. A favourite Bible verse of many, Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) tells us that we should “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” When we have a solid foundation for each decision we make in life, we enable ourselves to move forward along the right path with confidence.

I know that I can put my trust in God, Who’s never disappointed me, and Who’s always proved that He’s had a plan in mind for me that exceeds my wildest expectations. If you’re having trouble trusting, start with the basics. God won’t let us down, and when we have a firm foundation for our faith, our confidence will grow and our hearts will be more open to trust. Isaiah 49:23b (NCV) promises, “Then you will know I am the LORD. Anyone who trusts in me will not be disappointed.”

Originally published as “3 Facts About Trust”. Minto Express. September 9, 2015: 5. Print.

Friday

26

February 2016

Hope Reflected: The Importance of Perspective

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Isaiah 55:9

Have you ever watched the movie Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, and thought how huge Antie the ant appeared to be? Have you ever experienced flying in an airplane on a clear day, and looking out the window only to observe how minute the homes and buildings seem below, and how the vehicles cruising the freeway are just little specks? Or have you ever felt so bad for yourself and something that’s happened (or not happened) that when you hear the life struggles of another and see the news of unrest overseas, your problems suddenly seem so small in comparison?

Perspective.

Defined in the dictionary as “the art of drawing solid objects on a two-dimensional surface so as to give the right impression of their height, width, depth, and position in relation to each other when viewed from a particular point.” Also, “a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point view.”

What we get out of life depends a lot on our perspective.

Three ways proper perspective positively affects our lives:

  1. Proper perspective provides clarity. Ever notice when you’re trying to solve a problem or figure out what to do in a situation, that when you take your focus off said problem or situation for a while and come back to it, that the resolution becomes more clear? That’s what perspective does. It helps us adjust our focus and see things from the bigger picture. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NKJV), “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
  2. Proper perspective produces gratitude. Sometimes we can get so caught up in the events of our own lives, that we lose sight of what’s really important, or we place too much emphasis or value on our own circumstances. What’s the old saying that if we all put our problems in a pile, we’d opt to pull our own problem right back out again? There’s always someone struggling with something more severe. That shouldn’t be a comfort to us, but it should help us develop more of an attitude of gratitude for what we do have in our lives. Colossians 4:2 (KJV) says that we should “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving”.
  3. Proper perspective prepares us to help others. Oftentimes we will find that by recognizing the pettiness of our own ‘problems’, we’ll be better equipped to be an encouragement to others. It’s the idea of looking out rather than in. James Keller once said, “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.” It doesn’t take much effort to provide a word of encouragement or even a simple smile. We’re challenged in Colossians 3:12 (NIV) to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

It’s not always easy to have the proper perspective, especially when life is moving at warp speed and we feel like there’s never a moment to just stop and breathe. It’s like the adage, “you can’t see the forest for the trees.” Isaiah 55:8-9 (KJV) says, “’For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ saith the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’” Proper perspective will help us see the whole picture and how God is working every single circumstance in each of our lives for a greater purpose.

Thursday

25

February 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Building Blocks – The Blessings of Contentment

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Comparison is the thief of joy.

As a young girl, I was an avid Barbie collector. With each allowance, birthday, or celebratory holiday (or even sometimes just because), my Barbie collection grew to include upwards of thirty to forty dolls, complete with all the accessories – Barbie convertible, Barbie funhouse, Barbie dog – but I can remember specifically visiting my cousin’s house and seeing her collection – which included the enviable Barbie mansion – and thinking, “I really, really want the Barbie mansion. Like, really!” I’m pretty sure every one of us has a similar story from our childhood.

So what does Barbie have to do with contentment? It’s not the Barbie doll per se, it’s the principle of the story. Too often I think we look at our friends and neighbours and – whether consciously or not – start thinking the grass is greener on the other side. But the fact is, the grass is greenest where we choose to water it! It’s important to be satisfied with what God has given us. Not to say that we shouldn’t have drams and goals that we work towards, all I mean is that we need to place value on the blessings that we already have.

So what does the Bible say about contentment?

  1. Contentment builds reassurance. Jesus says in Matthew 6:25 (NKJV), “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” It’s a huge exercise in faith to learn to be content with what we have and not worry about what we could have or how we’ll get what we want or think we need.
  2. Contentment builds trust. When we’re content (read: Satisfied, but not lazy), we’re demonstrating trust that God’s got everything under control. That’s not to say you shouldn’t use common sense or intelligence, just that you’re trusting God to provide for your needs. David said in Psalm 23:1 (KJV), “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Think of what a shepherd does for his flock: He provides and he protects.
  3. Contentment builds joy. There’s an old saying that says “Comparison is the thief of joy.” And how true it is! When we start comparing ourselves or our circumstances to others, we lose our sense of self and quite often are left feeling deflated and inferior. Because guess what? There’s always going to be someone who’s smarter than you, someone who’s prettier, someone who has more money, or a bigger house, or a better car. Fact. Of. Life. So why waste time fretting about it? The apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians (4:11-13, NKJV), “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Content people are not always happy people, but content people are consistent, thankful, and more likely to be loving and grateful for the people around them. There’s the old saying that goes, “When we pursue happiness, we flee contentment.” Stop, take a look around, and purposefully count your blessings. Choose something today – or someone – for which you’ll practice an attitude of gratitude.

Originally published as “3 Building Blocks: The Blessings of Contentment”. Minto Express. August 12, 2015: 5. Print.

Wednesday

24

February 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Facts About Prayer

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1 Thessalonians 5:17

When I was very young, one of the Bible clubs I belonged to had to memorize a series of verses, one of which was 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which says, “Pray without ceasing.” You can imagine this short verse quickly became a group favourite, as it was the easiest to commit to memory (second only to John 11:35).

Ironically, and certainly not intentionally, years later this verse still sticks with me, and has a tendency to bubble to the surface especially around times when big decisions need to made and when I, or people around me, need help.

How is it possible that three seemingly small words, when stuck together and committed to memory, could reverberate so deeply in one’s soul?

1 Thessalonians 5:17 is sandwiched between two other important instructions in verses 16 and 18. The whole passage reads like this: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” [NKJV] Not sure about you, but sometimes it’s a struggle to rejoice always, and I constantly need to remind myself to practice an attitude of gratitude. And when it comes to the three words in between, admittedly, I’m not sure I fully comprehend what it is to pray without ceasing. What I do understand, however, is that when I pray, I’m more in tune with myself and those around me, and I can’t help but think that’s mostly due to the fact that when our spirit is in tune with God, it gives greater clarity to our earthly circumstances and relationships.

Here are three facts I know about prayer:

  1. Prayer provides peace. Even if you don’t where to start or you don’t have all the words, prayer can provide a peace that you won’t find in anything else. In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul wrote in chapter 4 and verse 6, “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” [NKJV] Then in verse 7 he says, “and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Now read that again.
  2. Prayer provides perception. More often than not, when people pray, it’s because we don’t have all the answers, and we can’t see what’s on the next step or around the corner. The comforting thing is that we don’t have to. The author of Psalm 119 wrote, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Anyone who’s been camping knows that an outdoor lamp or flashlight doesn’t provide a whole lot of light, just enough to get you along the trail. And that’s enough. Have faith, and don’t second-guess yourself. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea drive with the wind and tossed.” (James 1:5-6)
  3. Prayer provides power: Over worry, anxiety, fear, fretting – you name it, when we pray, we give God the power and acknowledge that the answers are not in ourselves. What’s worrying going to accomplish, anyway? I jest, because I’m a carrier, and a thinker, and a woman (and we tend to over-analyze and look at things from every single angle, multiple times, and then all over again). But seriously. James 5:16 says, “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” Let go, let God, and the second you start fretting, remember, He’s got this.

“Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?” Corrie Ten Boom once asked. “Any concern too small to be turned into prayer is too small to be made into a burden.” Our prayers don’t need all the words, and they don’t have to be impressive; all they require is an honest and open heart before God.

 

Originally published as “3 Facts About Prayer”. Minto Express. July 29, 2015. 5. Print.

Friday

19

February 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Ways to Control Your Reactions

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Hope Reflected: On Reactions

Anyone else love eating a good steak? You marinade the meat in the fridge overnight, and then grill it, and that combination of char-grilling with your secret spice recipe is mouth-watering – literally. Our saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which reacts with the food we put in our mouths everyday, and begins the digestion process. And what about photosynthesis? Plants have to eat too, you know! Photosynthesis is a reaction that plants have to convert carbon dioxide and water into food and oxygen for themselves.

OK, so you might be wondering how eating a piece of steak and photosynthesis are relative to each other. Besides the food connection, eating and photosynthesis are processes that both contain reactions.

We don’t always think a lot about our reactions – someone throws a ball, you catch it; the sun shines, you’re more cheerful; someone asks, “how are you today?”, you reply, “Fine.”; something’s funny, you laugh – but reactions are an important part of life, and they can have huge impact on those around us.

Reactions have been on my mind quite a bit lately, especially when I see challenging situations around. Ever notice how when someone gets upset with you, or does something just to spite you, that others are watching to see how you’ll react?

Reactions are important for several reasons, not just because they have lasting impact, but because – even though they are sometimes impulsive – reactions are an outward demonstration of how we feel inside and what’s in our heart.

Here are 3 ways to better control your reactions (usually applied to unfavourable circumstances or people):

  1. Wait for it. Someone say something to you that was rude or out-of-line? Receive a nasty note or email? If you can, step away from the situation before speaking or hitting that ‘Reply’ button. In the heat of the moment, we’re more apt to respond rashly. Give yourself a break, take a breather, step outside and inhale some fresh air – once you’ve had a chance to gain some perspective, then respond.
  2. Sometimes, not doing anything is the best thing. During my undergrad studies, one of my teachers gave my entire class a reading assignment: J. Allan Petersen’s Your Reactions Are Showing booklet. I’m pretty sure several in the class laughed as a reaction to receiving the booklet, but some of the wisdom shared within those pages has stayed with me, even years later. J. Allan Petersen suggests that sometimes, saying or doing nothing is the best reaction of all.
  3. Keep in mind, reactions have lasting impact. What we say and do can’t be taken back, and quite often, even if a circumstance or comment occurs between two people, there are others on the outside watching to see how you’ll respond or react to a situation. Our actions and reactions impact others. What kind of impact do you want to have?

I’ll close with this unknown quote, which says: “You can’t change how people treat you or what they say about you. All you can do is change how you react to it.”

Originally published as “How to Control Your Reactions”. Minto Express. May 20, 2015: 5. Print.

Thursday

18

February 2016

Hope Reflected: How to Be Decisive

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When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier. Roy E. Disney

“Where do you want to eat?”

“I don’t know; where do you want to eat?”

“It doesn’t matter to me, I’m good with whatever. You decide.”

“I’m totally neutral, you decide.”

While my indecisiveness is usually focused mostly around what restaurant to eat at when dining out with friends, the struggle is real. Indecisiveness is something that’s affected generations, throughout the entire world. Hey, even in Biblical times, there were some ‘ordinary’ men who had to make extraordinary decisions – check out Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and Daniel. We make decisions every single day, in every aspect of life – whether political, personal, or professional. That’s why it’s important to learn the fine art of being decisive!

The word ‘decisive’ is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as “Settling an issue; producing a definite result; having or showing the ability to make decisions quickly and effectively.”[1] Interestingly enough, the word was first used in the early 17th century, coming from the medieval Latin decisivus, decis– meaning “determined”.

If you’re someone who struggles with making decisions, or making the right decisions, here are 3 ways to be more decisive:

  1. Prayerfully consider decisions. People who pray and put thought into major life decisions have a peace and a calm that others lack. There’s good reason for that. The Bible says in Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV), “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” While your spirit gives you a sense of right and wrong, your Bible is also an awesome place to look for clear counsel.
  2. Prioritize, and don’t sweat the small stuff. Buying a house? Committing to spend the rest of your life with one person? Yeah, I’d say those are pretty big decisions and require some serious consideration. Choosing a new paint colour for your house? Buying a new pair of shoes? While these may seem like important decisions (especially the shoes!) it’s important to prioritize and spend time focusing on the big picture. Forget trivial things; focus on what’s truly important.
  3. Own your decisions, and your mistakes. Having confidence in the choices we make is HUGE, and this can only be done when we know what we believe in and where we stand. Don’t make decisions based on what others think you should do (this mentality will only lead to unhappiness). And also, don’t be afraid of mistakes. As much as we try to avoid them, mistakes are inevitable, so it’s key to admit mistakes, own them, and grow from them.

It’s not always easy to make decisions, – especially decisions that have lasting impact, – however as a wise man once said, “when your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.” Now if only I could decide on what to have for dinner.

[1] “decisive.” Oxforddictionaries.com. 2015. http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/ (30 April 2015).

Originally published as “How to Be Decisive”. Minto Express. May 6, 2015: 5. Print.

Tuesday

16

February 2016

5 Truths for Life from Proverbs 29

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Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honour. Proverbs 29:23

About ten years ago, I was given some of the best advice: Read a Proverb a day. For anyone just starting their spiritual walk, or even for those who are mature in their faith, there are so many simple truths for life found in the book of Proverbs.

Each chapter of Proverbs contains so much wisdom, which is just as practical today as when some of the Proverbs were first written as early as 900 B.C. Last week, I was inspired by five simple truths I found in Proverbs 29:

  1. Be compassionate towards those less fortunate than you. Proverbs 29:7 (NKJV) “The righteous considers the cause of the poor, but the wicked does not understand such knowledge.” No matter how bad you think things are, there is always someone less fortunate than you. We can’t all be Mother Teresa, but we can all show compassion and lend a helping hand to others.
  2. Watch your mouth. Proverbs 29:11 (NKJV) “A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back.” Ever meet someone who is constantly talking, and doesn’t seem to know when to be quiet? There’s always someone who loves the sound of his or her own voice, and never takes the time to listen to others and learn from them. Don’t be that person.
  3. Plan ahead, set goals, and pursue your dreams. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) “Where there is no vision, the people perish…” To accomplish anything in life, each of us needs to plan ahead and set goals. Sometimes spontaneity is good, however proper planning demonstrates responsibility. That’s not to say you’ve got to be super serious and no fun – it’s all about living a balanced lifestyle.
  4. Think before you speak. Proverbs 29:20 (KJV) “Seest thou a man hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him.” [See also #2 above.] There’s something to be said about knowing when to speak and when to listen. Ever left a conversation and thought, “I shouldn’t have said that!” – yeah, pretty sure we all have. There’s a proper time and occasion to express your emotions. Be mindful of what and when you share. If we’re always talking all the time, we can’t hear what others have to say.
  5. Learn to control your emotions. Proverbs 29:22 (KJV) “An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.” You know that feeling when you just can’t hold back the ugly cry? UGH! We’ve all been there. It’s important to remember that how we display our emotions can have a direct effect on those around us – family members, friends, co-workers – that’s why it’s important to keep our “feelings” in check. It’s way easier said than done to control our actions – and our reactions – to what others say and do, but it sure is important!

Originally published as “5 Simple Truths for Life from Proverbs 29”. Minto Express. April 8, 2015: 5. Print.

Thursday

11

February 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Ways to Stop Procrastinating

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Tree quote

After my last column, 5 Ways to Use Your Time More Wisely , I had a few comments on the topic of procrastination, from friends who struggle with putting things off until the last minute. I, too, struggle with procrastination on occasion, in fact, I’d venture to say that procrastination is a bad habit that everyone gets into at least once in their life.

We each have our own reasons for putting things off, whether it’s in our personal or professional lives. Some people are afraid of failure, some people are easily distracted, some people don’t like dealing with “feelings”, and some people think they thrive under pressure.

The word procrastination itself first originated in the 1540s, from the Latin procrastinationem, “a putting off from day to day.”[1] Procrastination is not a new habit; in fact, people have been putting things off since at least Biblical times. Ever notice how procrastination is referenced several times throughout the Bible? In Proverbs 3:28 “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it’ – when you have it with you,” or Proverbs 20:4 “The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing,” or even Proverbs 27:1 “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”

Procrastination is something society has struggled with for ages.

There are several ways to eliminate procrastination from your lifestyle. Here are three ways to stop procrastinating:

  1. Give yourself a deadline. Even if it’s self-imposed, give yourself deadlines to complete projects. Hey, you may even want to share with your friends or family for the accountability factor. If you’re someone who “works better under pressure”, then a self-imposed deadline should really help get you going.
  2. Get over your fear of failure. If you’re procrastinating because you’re afraid that by attempting a task or project, or by confronting a feeling that you’re going to fail or face rejection, get over yourself. Theodore Roosevelt once said, “It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.” You’ll never know if you don’t try! There comes a time when you just have to accept uncertainties and give it your best shot. Also, wisdom from Wayne Gretzky: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
  3. Go ahead and take the first step. Even if it’s a small step, getting started is one of the keys to combating procrastination. Sure, the project may seem impossible. So break it down into manageable tasks, so when you accomplish a little bit, you’ll be inspired to continue working.

If procrastination is a habit you’re trying to get out of, put it in perspective. Not only does procrastination affect your present, it can also have lasting implications on the rest of your life. Remember, “the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Whatever you’re procrastinating and putting off, take a step and get started. You’ll thank yourself tomorrow!

Originally published as “3 Ways to Stop Procrastinating”. Minto Express. March 11, 2015: 5. Print.

[1] procrastination. Dictionary.com. Online Etymology Dictionary. Douglas Harper, Historian. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/procrastination (accessed: March 05, 2015).

Wednesday

10

February 2016

Hope Reflected: Haste Makes Waste

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Benjamin Franklin quote.

My Dad has always been one of the biggest encouragements in my life – especially when it comes to reminding me that I need to take time to slow down. It was my Dad who introduced me to Carl Honoré, the magnificent mind behind the slow movement, and it is my Dad who frequently reminds me that I need to take more time out for myself.

Ever get annoyed when someone says, “Don’t rush,” or “Take your time,” right when you need to be somewhere, or you’re in a serious time crunch? Well, the next time you’re feeling rushed, or overwhelmed with all the work before you, just remember Benjamin Franklin. It was Franklin who once famously said, “Take time for all things: Great haste makes great waste.” This is coming from a guy who had a whoooole lot on the go. I mean seriously, not only was Ben Franklin one of America’s founding fathers, he was also a renowned politician, a postmaster, a scientist (American Enlightenment, anyone?), a diplomat, and an inventor (you may recall the lightning rod, those bifocals you’re wearing, and even the Franklin stove). Still, Benjamin Franklin knew the value of taking the time to think things through, and to do things right.

So how can we learn to halt the hurriedness in our everyday lives, especially living in this age of technology and increased connectivity? Here are five practical points for using your time wisely, whatever goals you’re pursuing.

  1. Be proactive; don’t procrastinate. If you’re someone who works better on a deadline, or thrives in a fast-paced, high-stress environment, “unlearning” procrastination can be difficult; however, the rewards to being proactive are many. Proactive people are purposed in their work, principled, and they practice healthy habits.
  2. Be purposed. Sometimes you have to ask yourself the tough questions, like “is what I’m doing today helping me get to where I want to be tomorrow?” If the answer is “no”, then maybe it’s time to re-evaluate what you’re doing and what steps will help you reach your goal(s). We all need to have a ‘why’. What’s yours?
  3. Be productive. Stop wasting time being “busy” and start being productive. No matter what you’re doing, time is going to pass, so why not make your work matter? Start focusing on the right things that will take you in the right direction, and limit everything else. Take charge of your time, and don’t get caught up in outside distractions.
  4. Be realistic. There will always be more things to do than hours in a day, and that’s why it is crucial to focus on your priorities. You may ask, “How can I focus when everything is a priority?” Well, what’s your primary goal? Break it down and work specifically toward that. Keep in mind that not all hours in the day are equal. What time of day do you operate at your best? Use those hours to pursue your goals, and the rest of the time for lesser tasks.
  5. Get started. Mark Twain once said, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” One way to eliminate haste is to get started. Sometimes, you’ve just got to stop making excuses, and go for it!

It’s the little life hacks that help – get in the habit of setting up your breakfast before you go to bed each night, plan and prepare your meals for the work week in advance, set a weekly laundry day so you’re not scrambling to get dressed each morning, and reserve one night a week to take time to just be – plan for your best tomorrow by preparing today.

Originally published as “Haste Makes Waste”. Minto Express. February 25, 2015: 5. Print.

Monday

2

March 2015

Hope, She Wrote: 3 Ways to Achieve Your Goals

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work, Uncategorized

C.S.Lewis goals quote

It was C.S. Lewis who said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” Dreams and goals are great, but it’s important to remember that you’ve got to back them up with action. Remember back to New Year’s Eve, that magical evening just a couple of short months ago, when people were all pumped full of new energy (and some full of champagne), making biiig plans for 2015? Committing that this was going to be the year of big life changes — getting fit, pursuing new career goals, starting to volunteer, developing healthy eating habits, reading more books — and living your best life? Yeah!!! I remember New Year’s Eve, too.

So… how are your goals going? If you made resolutions, are you still on the right road? If you’ve strayed, or even if you’ve completely fallen off the wagon — whether it be fit/work/volunteer/food, — you’re not alone. Usually it’s about this time in the ‘new’ year when people start to lose track of their goals and their original focus.

If you’re someone who’s lost focus of your goals, here are three ways to help you achieve your goals and get motivated:

  1. Tell someone about it. One of the best ways to achieve your goals: Be accountable to someone. Whether it’s through your social network, a peer group, or on a more private scale with an individual pursuing a similar goal, making yourself accountable is a great way to help you maintain focus and stay on the right track.
  2. Be realistic, and be positive. Being real about your goals may require re-evaluation of your resolutions. The old adage, “Rome wasn’t built in a day” is true, especially when it comes to pursuing your goals. Yes, goals should be challenging; they shouldn’t be impossible. Pursuing goals takes patience, and hard work. If you slip up along the way or make a mistake, don’t beat yourself up. Everyone makes mistakes. Mistakes can be stepping-stones on the road to success, as long as you learn from them and use them to grow. Having a positive attitude will help you to remain focused.
  3. Set a due date. It’s easy at the start of a new year, or when you set a new goal to say, “I want to lose weight”, or, “I want to eat healthy”. But being generic and vague about your goals or resolutions is no way to actively pursue them. You’ve got to put some numbers to it. Make a timeline and pace yourself — where do you aim to be in three months? Six months? One year? How long will it realistically take to achieve your goals? Giving yourself a due date, or having a set of specific target steps in mind with a completion date, will help you successfully achieve your goals.

I love this quote by author and filmmaker Greg S. Reid: “A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. A plan backed by action makes your dreams come true.” Whatever goals and resolutions you’re pursuing in 2015, remember — achieving your goals is possible with the right attitude and actions!

 Originally published as “3 Ways to Achieve Your Goals”. Minto Express. 28 January 2015: 5. Print.
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