Step 5: For each vision statement, write 3-5 measurable goals for the next year.
To grow into the vision we have for ourselves 10 years down the road, we need to be taking small steps each year. This step will help you to set realistic goals that you will be able to see success in. For each statement, think of 3-5 daily/weekly goals of which you can measure success. Although I don’t love the checklist mentality of Christian living, you can not simply say, “I will be more patient with my children.” How will you become more patient? Will you have weekly accountability with another mom? Will you read a particular book on the trials of motherhood that challenges and convicts you? Will you pray with your children each day? Those kinds of goals you can look back and say, “yes, I did that this week” and can be confident that God is changing you through those things!
I am not going to share all of my goals, because some of them are personal. I also want to challenge my blog reader to brainstorm their own personal goals that fit their lifestyle and the size of their own plate.
But to show an example, I will share 1 goal from each of my vision statements:
Christian: Read 12 books in 2013
Wife: Only travel home to Ohio 1 time/month
Motherhood: Read “Give them Grace” by Elyse Fitzpatrick to gain a framework for grace-based parenting
Finances**: I will manage the mint.com account and set the budget for each month (Kevin will look over it before it is finalized).
**Since finances is the priority I struggle with, I asked Kevin to come up with two goals for me. Feel free to ask your husband or accountability partners to choose a few goals for you so that you can challenge yourself and grow. Personal change happens in the midst of community, people!
Your 2013 life map is now finished! Make sure you go back to your life map often to adjust it or be reminded of the visions you have for yourself. I like to ask myself, “Is my life on a forward trajectory toward the visions I have for myself? If not, what do I need to change in my life now, or in my life map to see growth and progress?” It may also be helpful to have a friend or spouse ask you about your goals regularly. I pray that this tool blesses your life and allows God the space to change you!
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Phil. 1:6)