Setting Goals for the New Year

I find it so refreshing to begin a new year.  For many it is a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future with optimism and faith.  Perhaps you have made your list of personal goals and now hope to accomplish them over the course of the next twelve months.  Today I was reminded of this helpful, inspired counsel regarding New Year's resolutions given by Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.  Best wishes to each of you as you embark on this new year!

"First, think about your life and set your priorities.  Find some quiet time regularly to think deeply about where you are going and what you will need to do to get there.  Jesus, our exemplar, often 'withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed' (Luke 5:16).  We need to do the same thing occasionally to rejuvenate ourselves spiritually as the Savior did.  Write down the tasks you would like to accomplish each day.  Keep foremost in mind the sacred covenants you have made with the Lord as you write down your daily schedules."

"Second, set short-term goals that you can reach.  Set goals that are well balanced, not too many nor too few, and not too high nor too low.  Write down your attainable goals and work on them according to their importance.  Pray for divine guidance in your goal setting"  (Elder M. Russel Ballard ~ Ensign, May 1987, 14).