Do you tend to look forward with excitement or backward with regret most of the time?
My husband and I are the true “opposites” type of couple regarding this matter (and pretty much everything else). He is optimistic and daring in most situations, whereas I’m more reflective and cautious about forging ahead too quickly.
So, where do you stand when it comes to looking ahead at different opportunities before you? The new year is a great time to start fresh, but how does one do that if it doesn’t come naturally?
Steps to moving forward
Stay open
Easier said than done, I know! I need a lot of help with this one, so this idea of remaining available for new things is part of my daily prayer requests to God. Thankfully, the Lord gives us strength beyond what we can do alone. I love this reminder from Psalm 121:1-2 where King David writes: “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Stay honest
Many of us are truthful with others but sometimes lack in being straightforward with ourselves. Are you stuck in a job rut that’s not who you are or aspire to be? Do you have goals in life that you have felt inhibited about reaching? I think freedom and health come to our minds and bodies when we allow ourselves to look beyond the present to possibilities and interests that have been nudging at our insides for a while.
Stay humble
When we realize that life is not just about us, it helps open doors to new opportunities more quickly. You may have specialties in your back hip pocket that are helpful in your career. But sometimes, it’s good to do other things that we may not be as confident about. This could be as simple as volunteering in your church or community in ways you’ve never participated in before. Doing so might even spark new skills you weren’t aware of having! Reaching out to others is an excellent way of moving forward in attitude and graciousness toward those around us who could use our help in various ways.
Moving forward in life doesn’t always have to be a giant leap. I’ve found that listening to God’s quiet voice in taking the next small step toward change is the best thing to do. There may be hesitation in uncertain periods, but the Lord promises to be with us as we move along with His guidance.