It’s 2020! Can you believe it? Some of us weren’t sure we would survive Y2K. Yet here we are 20 years later. (If you are under 20, google it.)
I love the new year because it feels like a fresh start. A new beginning full of energy. So what do we do? How to we embrace this new year?
Resolutions? Good luck with that.
“The statistics on how many people actually follow through and accomplish their New Year’s resolutions are rather grim. Studies have shown that less than 25% of people actually stay committed to their resolutions after just 30 days, and only 8% accomplish them.” -Ashira Prossack
How about goals?
Goals are better than resolutions because they are much more actionable, which makes them more effective. But I find goals tend to have wishful thinking attached to them.
“You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” – James Clear
My advice is to ditch the 2020 goals and try this…
Rhythms of Life
Rhythms of life are daily habits and behaviors that help us become who we were created to be.
Jesus has already spoken to our identity.
- We are sons and daughters!
- We are dearly loved for who we are and not who we should be!
- He is well pleased with us!
- His greatest delight is in us!
What rhythms will help us embody this identity? What daily habits will help us learn and grow?
In other words, who are we becoming by the things we are doing?
I believe this is a much more biblical and Jesus centered approach. It’s also more effective for change. Daily rhythms lead to radical change.
2020 Rhythms
Below are a few personal examples.
- Centering Prayer: A receptive method of silent prayer that practices God’s presence.
- Sabbath: A day set aside for rest and worship. For me, practicing sabbath also encompasses how I use technology. I need a break from my phone.
- Slowing: John Ortberg says that “hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day.” For me, slowing down is primarily practicing silence, solitude, and stillness but also cultivating patience by choosing to place myself in positions where I simply have to wait.
- Journaling: Thoughts and feelings untangle when I write them down. I am currently using a Five-Year Journal.
- Learning: If I’m learning I’m growing. I want to stay teachable by reading, studying, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, hands-on training, and investing in relationships. (Marriage and parenting are always great teachers 🙂
- Simplicity: Seeking first the kingdom (Jesus) and letting everything else find its
proper place. (Matt. 6:33)
What about you? Who are you becoming by the things you are doing?
I encourage you to ditch the goals and begin practicing rhythms. Some call it habits or formations, but the focus is the same—daily practices that help us become more like Jesus and who He created us to be.
Happy New Year!
Prayer: Jesus I let go of my desire for security, approval, and control. I open myself to your presence, love, healing, and grace.
Resource: Fight Hustle End Hurry Podcast (I’m loving this podcast! Check out the “Rules of Life” episode for more thoughts on daily habits.)