2020 was a difficult year and it has made a big impact on all of us.
Some have struggled, while others have thrived. Many worked jobs that became extremely stressful, while others lost their jobs. Some people’s lives were turned upside down, while it was merely inconvenient for others.
If this year left you feeling weary and worn out, it may be hard to feel excited about setting goals for 2021–especially when it feels like relief and “normality” may not be in sight for a while longer.
That is understandable and completely acceptable.
If you’d like to set goals for 2021, but feel a little discouraged and unmotivated, I’ve got some encouragement and tips for you.
First, let’s recall a few reasons why goals are beneficial.
- They help us live with intention. When we set goals, we are claiming ways we want to live or accomplishments that would be meaningful to us. Working toward goals moves us toward the life we dream of living and the person we dream of being.
- They help us get things done. When we focus on goals, we are more likely to accomplish them, especially if we check in often (weekly or monthly) with our progress.
- They help us prioritize. We all have a to-do list a mile long, as well as habits we should be doing, but aren’t. Setting goals helps bring to the top the most important tasks. No one has time to do it all, so naming what matters most is important.
Now, for those feeling worn out–goals are still important to set, but you may want to tweak them from goals you might set in a “normal” year.
Think shorter-term.
We don’t know what 2021 will hold. In an unstable environment, you may need to set shorter-term goals. Consider setting quarterly or monthly goals, rather than annual goals. As your life and the reality of the pandemic evolves over the year, you can adjust your goals as needed.
For example, run a 10K each quarter, read the 4 gospels (the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) this month, go on 1 hike this month or have a family game night every first Friday this quarter.
Think about life-giving goals.
When we are worn out, it may not be wise to continuously strive to reach a difficult goal. Not only may your large goal not be possible in this public environment, but adding unnecessary stress to our lives is not healthy long-term. Instead, consider setting goals that will establish healthy rhythms that renew your soul, not deplete it. If you need rest and greater margin, set goals to give you that.
For example, spend 10 minutes a day meditating or praying, start a Bible reading plan, get an average of 7-8 hours of sleep per night, begin to observe Sabbath, grow your emergency fund, begin counseling or call a friend each week.
Set smaller, achievable goals.
When we are tired, it’s hard to be motivated to work on a huge goal. Instead, try smaller targets or think about breaking a larger goal down into smaller pieces. The momentum from accomplishing these goals will build, and you can still work toward a larger goal in smaller, slower steps.
For example, exercise a minimum of 15 minutes each day, start your new business as a side gig, set a smaller monthly weight loss goal, or decide to cut one sugary drink from your diet.
Find an accountability partner.
Invite a friend or family member in to help you reach a goal, or better yet, work toward a similar goal together. Knowing that you have a cheerleader who you’ll have to report progress to on a consistent basis will help motivate you to stay focused.
For the past couple of years, a small group of family members and I have read through the Bible with The Bible Recap reading plan. It was so nice to have a group to discuss that day’s reading with or ask questions to, and we got to celebrate together when we finished.
Give yourself grace.
Remember that goals are about progress, not perfection. In difficult times, we have to give ourselves grace while still living intentionally. We are not being graded on whether or not we reach our self-given goals. They are just a tool to help us live in a better way.
If you don’t reach a goal, there is no shame in that. Reassess, tweak the goal if necessary, and move on, or reset the goal for the next month or quarter. If the goal is still important to you, try having an accountability partner or finding a resource to help you accomplish it.
Goals are about progress, not perfection.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” What a gift! We don’t have to manufacture these characteristics on our own; instead, we can rely on the Spirit for these resources. If you’re feeling weary, pray and ask God to help you live with intention and purpose in the plan that he has for your life.
If you’d like to create 2021 goals, I’ve created a free resource for you! In my free 2021 Goal Setting Worksheets, I walk you through some reflection questions, setting annual (or you can make them quarterly) goals and setting a word or verse of the year. I provide monthly goal setting worksheets that include a different Bible verse each month. This year, I’ve also added a simple idea and worksheet for setting family goals. You can sign up here!
Lord, we look ahead to the new year with hope, and yet we are weary. Please give us greater power, love and self-discipline to live the good life you have planned for us. Help us to seek gratitude so that we have the right mindset. Direct us as we set goals for the year ahead, Lord. Help us to focus on the priorities you have for us. Thank you for the opportunity we have to impact your kingdom by shining your light to those around us. Amen.
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