Contemplating Goals

I have some goals for myself this year. 
Rather, in the new few months - to implement. I am aware that it's a lot, but these things have been on my mind, so this is me doing #3 on my list.

Creature - Digital sketch

I want to:

1. Be in the Word every day (aka Quiet Time)

What I need to do: Develop a plan regarding what I will study, so I don't have to use my energy deciding. I also need to carve out a "usual" time this 

2. Work on praying continuously

I used to be really good at this, back in high school. That was awesome. I would love to have this constant communication with God - I desperately need it.

What I need to do: Start out with set prayer times 1-2 times a day, then remind myself that every moment I think of prayer is a good time to pray, even a quick one. Restructure my mind into remembering that since my thought life is on full display to God, that I may as well speak directly to Him!

Owl - Digital sketch

3. Insert self-reflection time, regularly

This, I think goes hand-in-hand with prayer and quiet time. But, adding journalling to the mix helps, too.

What I need to do: Start with the goals set for prayer and quiet time. Then reflect to see if more time needs to be added for journalling.

4. Set up some exercise habits

I have been putting this off for several reasons.
I have been putting my priorities elsewhere in places that I have been excited to grow in, so I can't say that I feel terribly regretful for putting this off.
I wanted to be in a place where motivation for making this a habit came from a place of positive motivation, not guilt or obligation. And I feel like I'm pretty close to that point, enough to start.

My water bottle - Digital sketch

What I need to do: I struggle with finding activities I enjoy. Yoga is good, body weight exercises are good, and it is February, so I can start with those (in spring/summer I enjoy walking, biking, hiking, gardening, and I can add those later). I need to create a space in my basement (the only place in our house without INCREDIBLY squeaky floorboards! Also cool in the summer) that is set up for exercise. Putting my shoes down there, yoga mat, and weights (jumprope?). Inviting my husband to exercise with me the first couple times so I can get my groove. Starting with videos so I can create better plans in my head. Creating plans so I don't have to decide on the spot. Knowing what space in the week is good for this, when I'm in the best headspace. How long to make the workouts - I'm thinking to start with 30min 2x/wk. 

5. Creating better cleaning habits

What I need to do: Set a time 1x/wk where I go around the house and clean. Creating better habits regarding cleanup and regular decluttering so I don't get overwhelmed later (e.g. cleaning all the dishes after dinner).

6. Finding better outlets for stress/anxiety

What I need to do: Exercise, pray, journal, read...but this one is kind of unknown. I don't really know what works for me. I have noticed that talking helps, but to do it in a constructive way is the goal. Anxiety is a struggle for me. I need to pray about it more...the Bible says "Do not be anxious about anything..." (Philippians 4:6) which blows my mind. How do you do that??? I'm afraid of letting go of my anxiety; it makes me get things done! Obviously I need to pray about this - "...but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6)

7. Career improvement

AKA continuing education. This one is pretty straightforward. 

What I need to do: Look into and do continuing education credit activities, especially the ones related to my current position.

So you'll notice that none of these are related to art. All of the images are digital sketches I did a while ago. Art just isn't on the forefront of my mind or priorities in this point of my life. As you can see, I have many other things I would like to improve in - right now, those things are more important to me. But, I will still keep creating, because it's in my nature!

Here's to self-improvement!