What is the best way to reflect upon the past year and plan for the new year? Those are questions that I tackle this time of year. I have used a variety of approaches to this in the past — long lists, focusing on key words, etc. This year I am making a series of goals public to aid with my own accountability with this. I am happy to read the plans of others as well and to help with your accountability, if that is a role that is helpful for you.

Here is what I would like to accomplish this year, understanding that I can do none of this without God’s grace and help.

Daily Bible Reading and Study: I place this first since nothing else is possible without nuturing my faith in and my reliance on Christ. Last year I read through the entire Bible twice. This year I am focusing on specific books of Scripture and working through commentaries on them (Luke is what I am studying right now). I am also targeting specific books simply to read, such as the Psalms. In fact, I may continue to repeat the Psalms throughout the year.

Artificial Intelligence and Education Learning: This is a niche topic which I invested in exploring during 2024. Since it appears that education could look quite different in the coming years, it is essential that I grow in this understanding, not only for myself as an educator, but also to support Lutheran education. I will be sharing a lot of my learning through this blog.

Cultivating Writing: At times I have written extensively and in other seasons this has gone by the wayside. In 2025, I aim to write more regularly (daily even?), whether it’s through blog posts, journaling, or working on longer projects. I find that writing helps me clarify my thoughts, process experiences, and connect with others.

Prioritizing Health: I already have a pretty good walking routine several times a week. As I age, I would like to add some strength work once or twice a week — nothing crazy, but something to enable me to embrace this as a regular habit. I would also like to take longer walks/hikes outside of my neighborhood at least once a week, exploring more of the area in which God has placed me in this way. In addition, I seek to continue to learn to cook better, attempting one new recipe or cooking strategy each week.

Financial Future: I will continue to work on growing our family financial plan and retirement savings strategy. This includes regular reviews, adjustments as needed, and seeking professional advice to ensure we’re on track to meet our long-term financial goals.

You all, dear readers, are deputized to gently assist me in reaching these goals for the coming year! I am giving myself permission to adapt these goals as necessary. And I would love to read about your own goals for the coming year as well. Feel free to share them with me at any time, and let me know if/how I can support you.

Happy New Year everyone!