Clean-up was a chore as a child, but as an adult, it sets us up for success.  In December I find myself reflecting on the events of the past year with the hope of preparing for a successful start to the new year. 

As I start my “clean-up” or review, I like to think about what went well, what could have gone better, and what never made it to the starting line. 

I think about my values and ask myself if my actions support my values.  Are my actions representing who I am or am I sending mixed messages? 

As I review the year I usually find a pattern among my actions that could have gone better.  It might be that I was too quick to react, didn’t have enough information, or that I lost control of my actions.      

I also evaluate and clean up my thoughts.  This year I feel I made progress in refocusing my thoughts to prayer.  Instead of controlling the situation, I pray for direction and guidance.

As judgment sneaks into my mind I quickly redirect my thoughts knowing that it is not for me to judge.  A quick year-end clean-up helps me evaluate what I need to work on in the year ahead. 

The next review is in the area of physical things.  I call it getting my house in order.  Have I accomplished the things that I planned?  Have I started the projects on my list?  Am I keeping up with life’s seasonal tasks? 

If I am not making progress with clean-up, I search for what is blocking my efforts.  I work at bringing peace to my environment and removing stress from my daily life.   

Year-end clean-up also includes restoring my mind and body.  Stress strangles my energy level and clouds my mind.  I give my worries to God and pray away my stress. 

As I work on my year-end clean-up I also prepare for the future.  I continue with the things that were successful and pray for opportunities to strengthen the areas that fell short.  I look for ways to better serve and have faith and hope for a better future. 

Click here to stay connected.