The weeks before the end of the year is like the final sprint before the finish line of a race. Everyone is moving to get as much done. Then New Years Eve happens, we breathes and the marathon starts all over again.
Courtesy of Anthony Quintano/Creative Commons License
Whether you are ramping up or winding down it’s important to set yourself up for success before the new year begins. After all youth ministry is a journey. While you can anticipate some things, many are still a surprise.
To set yourself up for the best year ever doesn’t take a lot of effort, in fact it can be real simple. Here are 6 small steps you can take before the new year begins:
It might seem insignificant but a clean work space can take a lot of burden off your mind. Nothing will take away the joy of time off like walking back into a mess (literally and figuratively). Clean off your desk top, organize your files and toss any junk away.
Just like your desk an empty inbox is a nice feeling. Even though you might be off people will be emailing you. Get organized by answering, and cataloging your emails. Put up an out of office reply and set your mind at ease.
If you have an endless stream at least prioritize them and start with the quickest replies. Small steps at first will lead to big momentum later.
Revisiting your schedule allows you to evaluate whether or not you are using your time wisely. Look at what you set out to do and compare it to reality. When setting your schedule be realistic about your responsibilities.
The point of the schedule is to remind you what’s important and when it needs to be done. Writing it down, revisiting it and knowing it will allow you to focus when the new year begins.
It’s not only the seasonal thing to do, but a great habit to move you forward. Setting goals allows you to set the pace for the year. Make sure your goals are tangible with deadlines and measurable outcomes. Don’t be afraid to push yourself but keep them realistic.
Share your goals with others and ask them to ask you, “How’s it going?”. The accountability will help you keep them in the front of your mind. (Check out Michael Hyatt’s site HERE for more on goal setting)
During busy seasons like the holidays it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture. Take time to sit in prayer with God and your vision statement. Ask God to give you clarity on what needs to be done in the new year. Make sure you are aware of why what you are doing is so important.
Before any long road race it’s important to know where the fuel stops are. This not only helps with pacing but breaking down a long journey. Same goes for ministry. You need to plan your breaks so that the year ahead doesn’t seem so daunting.
Look at your calendar and even if it’s just one day book it for yourself. Make it a stay-cation, a day where you can just breathe but write it down. It’s a lot easier to give yourself time off when you aren’t in the midst of a mess.
The end of the year is upon us and there is still so much to do. Even though these six steps seem like another thing, they’ll benefit you in the long run.
Don’t rush and miss out. Prepare yourself for the big things still to come. The marathon of ministry is worth it and the new year is going to be awesome.
[reminder] How do you best prepare for the new year? What are you most look forward to? [/reminder]
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