With the arrival of 2024, many of us look back and evaluate the highs and lows of the past year. While this reflection is valuable, dwelling too much on the past can hinder our ability to move forward into new possibilities. The Apostle Paul eloquently expressed this sentiment in Philippians 3, urging a focus on the future rather than the past:

“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 3:13-14

Like Paul, we can be intentional about leaving the past behind and reaching forward to the new things God has in store for us. The changing of the calendar offers us a unique opportunity for a fresh start — a chance to realign our mindset and priorities to focus on growth and living life to the fullest.

According to a recent study on New Year’s resolutions, people were more successful when they set “approach-oriented” goals focused on positive behaviors they wanted to do more of (exercising several times per week, eating more vegetables, etc.) rather than “avoidance” goals focused on stopping unwanted habits (avoiding junk food, not sitting for long periods, etc.). The research found 55% success for approach goals versus only 47% for avoidance.

As you look ahead to 2024, consider framing your wellness goals with a “toward” mindset rather than an “away from” mindset. How can you add healthy habits that help you feel whole in body, mind and spirit? Feeling whole means feeling balanced and thriving in all facets of life, regardless of the challenges we may face. Maybe you aim to nourish your physical body through regular movement, your emotional health through journaling and your spiritual well-being through studying the Scriptures and prayer. These are all good examples of approach oriented goals.

To make the most of 2024, here are five practical steps to set approach-oriented goals:

  1. Identify Positive Actions: List actions that enhance your well-being. This could be anything from walking for 30 minutes daily, reading a book each week or cooking a healthy meal twice a week.
  2. Set Specific and Achievable Goals: Be precise. Instead of a vague “exercise more,” opt for “attend aerobics classes twice a week.” This specificity makes your goals more tangible and achievable.
  3. Create a Vision Board: Visualize your goals. A vision board with images and phrases representing your aspirations can be a daily reminder and motivator.
  4. Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use an app to monitor your progress. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated.
  5. Seek Balance: Balance is key. While setting goals, ensure they encompass physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Regardless of what didn’t go as planned in the past year, the dawn of 2024 allows you to try again with the knowledge you’ve gained. Let the turn of the new year fill you with expectant hope to gain greater motivation to thrive in body, mind and spirit. Our part is simply to continue taking small, faithful steps toward living well. As you do so, God’s strength will meet you to accomplish all that you could hope for or imagine in the new year and beyond.