I’ve never met anyone who
planned to fail. Yet, thousands of people are dissatisfied with their lives
because they don’t have any set goals. If we’re not making plans to succeed
then by default, we’re planning to fail.
Millions of people made
New Year’s resolution this year but unfortunately, most have already fumbled.
Statistics show that 75% of people maintain their resolutions, through the
first week. Six months later, only 46% continue on with their goals. By the end
of the year, a staggering 90% of people never
make it. If this is you, I have some good news.
Today, let me introduce
you to another approach of making plans to succeed. I call it PGP or Personal Growth Plan. Each year, I set
goals in the five categories of life that impact me the most. Under each
heading, I write down 3-5 specific goals. PGP works because it makes room to
fail but allows the grace to get up and go again. Let me share these that might
help you also.
1. God. Our
success on earth is directly correlated to our connection with heaven. If we
build our lives in the firm foundation of our God, we will have the Midas touch
in everything we do. If we want to succeed in life, we can’t afford to not
spend time with our Maker. Make plans to read the Bible every day. Pray and
worship throughout the day. Talk to someone about Jesus at work. Attend church
and get involved serving people. Go on a mission trip. Let’s plan to encounter
God more deeply and intimately. Draw near to God and He’ll draw near to you!
2. Family.
Every family has some defunct but your family is the only people God Himself
handpicked for you! Our families sacrifice the most, yet often, they’re the
ones who are most neglected. At the end of your
life, you’re not going to ask for another day at the office or brag on your
corporate achievement; you would want to be surrounded by the family you love.
Set aside dedicated time to spend with your spouse. Go on a date with your kids
and grandkids. Plan a weekend getaway. Play games together. Have fun and be
intentional about making memories. Don’t shortchange your family. Invest in
them.
3. Relationships. We’re created to live in community. The quality of our life will depend
on the relationships we build. Learn to take genuine interest in people. Find a
way to meet new people. Be loyal to your old friends. At work, invest in your
boss and co-workers. Be hospitable. Invite your friends and neighbors to
dinner. Call people just to check on them. Pray with people. The best relationships are a two-way street. What you
put in is what you’re going to get out of it.
4. Finances.
Our financial affairs reflect where our hearts are. The Bible says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart
will be also” (Matthew 6:21 NIV). Don’t follow money; instead, follow God
and money will follow you. We’re selfish by nature. One of the best ways to
cure greed and selfishness is to have a generous heart. This year try these
simple steps for financial fitness. Work to make money > Give > Save >
Invest. Use a budget and percentage to dictate where your money should go. If
you really want to hit a home run with your finances, support Israel.
5. Health.
We’ve all heard the saying, “Health is
wealth.” It is! No matter whether you’re trying to lose a few pounds or
fighting a serious health issue, you are in control of more than you think.
Take simple steps to boost your health. Eat a balanced diet. Drink more water.
Cut down on carbs, sugar, and sodas. Exercise regularly. Sleep at least 6-8
hours a day. Our God is still the Healer – this is your year to reclaim your
health!
Friend, our God is a
progressive God. What you’ve experienced in the past is going to pale compared
to the success God has reserved for you this year. Get your hopes up, take
corresponding action, and thank God for a bumper crop year. 2015 will be a wow
year! God will give you something to talk about. He has already pronounced His
blessing over you. Will you believe and act on it? I’m praying for you and
yours!
“You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the
hard pathways overflow with abundance”
(Psalm 65:1 NLT).
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