We had dinner last night with our dear friends, David and Cathy Peake. Cathy prepared a delicious prime rib, and in our conversation, she shared that she just completed several items on her list of goals for 2015 in the final two days of the year. As they say, “Better late than never!”

Cathy’s list for 2015 gave her a target for accomplishment and having written them, she didn’t forget them. Indeed, studies reveal we are much more likely to reach goals that are written. I know I more focused and productive on days or weeks I have a written list of things to do.

My mom is a big fan of lists, and if she performs a task that wasn’t written down, she goes back to add it to the list, just so she can feel the satisfaction of crossing it off. We are made for purpose and accomplishment is inherently rewarding.

Whether or not you are a fan of new year’s resolutions, I encourage you to activate your imagination. Think about the year ahead. Want to plan a getaway with a loved one? Wish to learn a new skill? Need to restore a broken relationship or finish a project? Is this the year to read through the Bible or go on spiritual retreat? How about a health or fitness goal?

Write down things that come to mind and prioritize. The most important things will likely never happen unless you activate intention and desire. Then submit your list to God and make it your aim to find your joy in Him.

When you do, you can be sure He remembers your desires even when you forget them.

 Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.                    Psalm 37:4

But write your goals, don’t talk about them! This 3 minute TED talk will tell you why.

https://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_keep_your_goals_to_yourself?language=en