Episode 043 – Reboot: Start the Year Strong — Habits, Focus, and the Power of One Word

  • 39 min

Episode 043 – Reboot: Start the Year Strong — Habits, Focus, and the Power of One Word

The Church Podcast

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In this special Reboot edition, we revisit Episode #062 from the original Church Podcast with co-host John Rinaldo—a lively New Year conversation recorded at the start of 2019. Looking back, the themes are surprisingly evergreen: leadership, habit formation, prayer, and the challenge of staying grounded as life and ministry evolve.

Chris and John open the episode with their classic banter—holiday reflections, resolutions, and why Auld Lang Syne still triggers big feelings. But quickly the conversation shifts into something deeper: How do ministry leaders begin a new year with intentionality rather than exhaustion?

They explore the difference between resolutions and actionable goals, why habit-building is more effective than white-knuckling outcomes, and how a simple practice called “One Word” can anchor your entire year. Chris shares how past words like healing and efficiency shaped his leadership, while John reflects on seasons of transition, family demands, and the humility required to embrace whatever God places before you.

Together, they unpack practical ways to discern your direction for the year ahead:

The Power of One Word
Instead of setting a dozen goals, choose a single word—discipline, collaboration, opportunity—that can guide your habits, mindset, and spiritual focus. Chris and John share how this practice has led to clarity, balance, and renewed purpose across changing seasons.

Habits Over Resolutions
Big goals (write a book, run a marathon) can be helpful, but sustainable change comes from daily habits: writing 500–1000 words, praying consistently, journaling, limiting distractions, or inviting real accountability. “Some days it’s easy; some days you just write junk—but the habit changes you.”

Leadership Requires Discernment
Seasons of life affect what’s possible. Parenting toddlers, losing a loved one, moving, shifting ministries—these moments change your capacity. Rather than forcing unrealistic goals, the invitation is to be gentle with yourself and allow God to guide the pace.

Collaboration Is a Spiritual Practice
Chris reflects on how the word collaboration emerged through prayer and honest self-examination—recognizing that frustration often comes from unspoken expectations. Inviting others in, delegating well, and empowering teams creates healthier ministry and healthier leaders.

Prayer, Journaling, and Accountability
These three anchors—personal prayer, reflective writing, and trusted voices who challenge and encourage you—form the foundation for discovering your focus and living it out intentionally. 

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