Starting Fresh: Six Goals for 2023

Hey!

Welcome to 2023!

The New Year is always a time to reset, reflect, and refresh. There is something about January that encourages that. Whether you want to learn a new skill, hit that milestone you didn’t reach, or simply develop a new habit, the new year is the time to set new goals.

For me, there are six goals and mindset changes that I’d like to develop in 2023.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

1. Spiritual Growth

Building a consistent relationship with God is the most important thing in every life. Last year, God has shown up for me in the most difficult situations I went through. He always has a way of reassuring me of his presence through the peace I feel in the midst of the storm.

Each day is a day to praise Him for that which He does consistently. I’ve started a plan to read the Bible in one year, starting from the book of Matthew. Daily seeking the Spirit of the Lord is a joy that my heart content.

2. Get out of my Comfort Zone

It’s no fun doing things that make you uncomfortable. However, for growth to happen, I need to get out of my comfort zone and try things that I otherwise wouldn’t think of trying. Starting this website was one of the things I kept putting off for 2 years, and now that I’ve started it, I really enjoy it.

The thing I tell myself when I want to do something challenging is, “be spontaneous.” Not to overthink the action or the consequence, but to just go for it. That way I challenge myself and get more things done.

3. Language Learning Goals

I started learning French during the lockdown in 2020. I had much motivation and great plans to be fluent in the language. Two years later and I’m at the intermediate level and I can say that I’ve gone pretty far learning the language solely on my own.

My language plans this year is to learn my native language, C’lela, as well as Yoruba and Igbo languages.

4. Be More Self Rewarding

As the common saying goes, "all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." I need to get used to rewarding myself more. Having little treats and celebrations after long hours of work is essential for my productivity and overall health.

I enjoy a relaxing evening tucked under the covers with a gripping Netflix show or reading a book from my shelf, or even hanging out with my friends is another way to ensure I properly reward myself for a job well done.

5. Get Better Sleep

Sleep is an essential exercise for better health and life in general. I’ve never had a sleep schedule or a bedtime. I’ve seen articles about how sleeping and waking up at the same time can enhance sleep quality.

It is a habit that is difficult to incorporate but with discipline, it can be done. I’ll try waking up before 9 a.m. for one week and see how that goes from there.

6. Writing Goals

I started writing a story last summer, and so it’s been a slow and steady race so far. I’ve written a couple of short stories to help improve my creative writing skills and get used to creating fiction in general.

I’ve entered some short stories in writing contests and the process has helped hone my writing skills.

It’s your turn, what are some of your goals for 2023?

Carpe diem.

Dee.