Well, 2022 feels a bit like deja vu in some ways: case counts, uncertainty, restrictions—lots of unknown and even isolation.
So what are you going to do differently the second time around?
I mean intentionally.
It’s so easy to let seasons like this happen to you rather than be proactive. Netflix calls, scrolling happens, the kids…well, are kids, and the next thing you know, you wonder why you feel less connected to the world or are left languishing.
It’s not the outcome you want, but it kind of just happens.
What can you do differently?
Here are three ways I think you can be more intentional and move through this season thriving instead of surviving.
Let’s see you start 2022 on a track for growth and a full life!
1. Change your Mindset
So often, we focus on what we can’t control instead of what we can. We focus on the unknown instead of what we know is true.
Our survival instinct sometimes teaches us to look for threats instead of opportunities. But here’s the good news…that can be unlearned.
What do you know is true about your life, your family?
Better yet, what do you know is true about God? About how He sees you? What does the Christian faith say you can count on for the future?
When we focus on what’s true and use that as our starting point for how we think and live, everything can change.
At Connexus, we’re kicking off a brand new series on Sunday, January 9th, called Reset. It’s all about moving your life forward in the face of uncertainty.
In this series, we’ll cover how to get on with your life in the midst of confusion, focusing on the truth we know rather than all the things you don’t know. Best yet? It involves a clear action plan for everyone this year.
2. Work on something that matters long-term
Honestly, there are just some things you can’t control, especially in the short term.
But want the good news?
You can always work on the long-term things. And those are the ones that really matter.
Your spiritual life, your marriage, your health, your relationship with your kids, or a life skill. No matter what’s happening or not happening today, you will never regret investing in those things or those people that matter most in the long term.
What are things or who are the people you can invest in that are really going to matter 5 years from now? 10 years from now? How can you invest in those things? Because that’s not going to change. It will always be worth it.
At Connexus, we’re passionate about helping people grow in their marriages. It’s hard for you to grow spiritually when your marriage isn’t healthy. This February, we’re launching an online Marriage Course. Now before you scroll further, I want you to know something…
Leslie and I took the Marriage Course a year ago, and I was skeptical (as were a few of my friends). You know what, we loved it. First, the curriculum is really great. It’s engaging, and it facilitates a private conversation between you and your spouse (not a group of people btw). It guides you through important conversations that aren’t always easy, but you can really see the growth and feel encouraged along the way. Plus, you can do it right at home.
So if you haven’t checked it out before, or you know someone who would love it, here’s a link to check it out. It’s perfect for ANY married couple.
Looking to grow spiritually? Intentional time with God is one of the best things you can do for your soul and your mind. This reading plan by Nicky Gumbel called Bible in One Year has been a go-to for many people in our church. Nicky is the founder of Alpha and does a great job making something accessible every day (and we love his wife Pippa’s contributions).
3. Get Connected…NOW!
Here’s something I’ve noticed in the pandemic. You know you need to be connected, but you quickly find your circle getting smaller.
The next thing you know, you find yourself feeling disconnected or isolated. Maybe you have some small talk with people at work on Zoom, but no real conversation.
My strong encouragement after almost 2 years of this…get connected NOW! Intentionally find a way to get in a circle with some people and get to know them.
Time and time again, in the pandemic, I’ve run into people who aren’t in a good space mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. 100% of the time, they have become disconnected from regular community. Sometimes they just turn inward; other times, they use “I don’t like Zoom” as an excuse. But we all need to jump into connection.
Who do you need to reach out to today and commit to connecting with regularly? Someone who fills your tank or helps you grow?
We’d love to help you with this.
In January, we’re launching Group Launch at Connexus. We’ll have a mix of vaxed groups, vaxed optional groups, online groups, hybrid groups, in-person groups, etc. Choose courage and jump into a group that works for you. You can’t grow spiritually if you aren’t connected relationally. Community is a part of connecting with Jesus and His Church. Never has that been more true than now.
You can sign up for more info here.
So how about it? Don’t let 2022 just happen to you. Let’s not let uncertainty rule our minds and make our worlds smaller and smaller.
Choose to be intentional and see a different outcome than you saw in 2020 and 2021.
