By Meagan Bess
A new decade brings double the opportunities to set goals and achieve them. It also allows time to explore things that have only been an afterthought lingering in the mind of what-ifs.
You only live once, so why not take a chance and try new things? Below will be several outlets to do so and start this next decade off on a good note.
If you are a religious or spiritual person find out what ministries your church has and get involved. There are ministries from young adult, singles, married couples to the food pantry. Contact the leader of the ministries by phone or email. Even consider taking on a leadership role such as treasurer, Chaplin or event coordinator.
In each ministry there should be a goal or mission statement as to why they do what they do. Learn the reason why you should consider joining to begin a new journey by asking members and leaders in those ministries their purpose. Once you find out the purpose, consider being a part of events that bring you closer to people in your church and have a deeper connection to the church you attend.
If along this spiritual or religious journey you are hoping to have a deeper connection to God, consider starting a prayer journal, either making one from scratch or buying one from Amazon.
One that I would recommend is “Prayer Journal for Women” by Shannon Roberts. It is a 52 week scripture, devotional and guided prayer journal. The journal will allow you to not only regain growth through reciting two bible verses each week, but also by writing down answers to a reflection, highlights in the week and prayer requests. This way you can have physical documentation that allows several times during your busy week to spend time with God.
In order to maintain a healthy diet, a regular routine of a healthy lifestyle is needed. What better way to do so by working out with family or friends? When January comes, many people consider starting the year of with a new fitness routine. It can be a challenge to decide what gym to join.
YMCA has an individual membership broken up by age ranging from $40 to $56 with a joining fee. The other memberships include Senior Adult, Senior Family, two person household and a family plan. Military memberships are also available. They do not limit anyone from joining, rather making it easier with the variety of who can join. Not only will the business thrive, but the people who make it do so will get their workout in and feel refreshed for the rest of their day.
Another good option is Planet Fitness. The $10 per month option includes free Wi-Fi and free fitness training, while the $22.99 per month membership has several more options alongside those two such as unlimited use of a massage chair, unlimited use of a hydromassage and 20% off Reebok products. With these incentives, why not take the chance and explore the fitness realm.
Working most days of the week can result in less free time. Let the new year be the time to dedicate that free time to special moments with family and friends. Schedule a trip to a bowling alley and compete against one another. Have a movie night or throw a party with your favorite finger foods. Even consider having a vision board party where each person explains what each word and picture symbolizes.
Maybe you’re a church member and you want to get more involved. 2020 can be the year to make that step. Become a greeter and welcome in other fellow church members. Take on the task of becoming an usher and lead people to their designated pew, hand them the mission offering basket or envelopes for their tithes and offerings. Even consider joining the choir and sing classic and contemporary Gospel or Christian songs.
Why not make 2020 the season of embracing your passions? Maybe you know how to make jewelry and finally want to get back into it. Find the nearest Michaels and pick up all that you need to create bracelets and necklaces. Make time to write some poems, begin a novel or short story. Allow your imagination to explore with pen and paper and even consider the idea of self-publishing. Join a poetry club or enter into a poetry competition to explore new heights. Find a local shop or gather some friends and have a paint party with a theme and see what becomes of each drawing.
Another valuable decision would be to have days for self-care. Enjoy a day at the spa or getting a massage. Set aside time to get a manicure and pedicure. Let yourself get an extra hour or two of sleep. Have a marathon with a television show, movie on Netflix or on your favorite cable channel. There can’t be a limit to designating a moment to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Life moves so quickly that we can lose sight of what else we can enjoy instead of always sticking to a normal routine. Go into this new decade adding at least one new thing to what you hope to accomplish daily. The addition will be worth it.
