We are just past mid way in the first month of the year 2023 AD. Statistically speaking most New Year’s resolutions are busted, failed, toast. We are not bad people. We may even possess the resolve that is necessary. Reality tells us that habits are better than resolutions. The problem with our resolutions is our process. It is more about our process than our will power.
Following Jesus
Pastors, shepherds, and church leaders have encouraged us for centuries to build habits into our lives that will allow us to get close to Jesus, stay close to Jesus, and live and love like Jesus. For many of us, the first of the year is the time that we resolve to read the Bible, pray, give, connect and serve more. There is a reason that Lent comes along just after the middle of February. We need a reset. Perhaps our resolutions have failed us. What we need are sustainable habits that move us toward God and other people. Habits transform us, make us better, and take us where we want to go.
Habits are better than resolutions.
James Clear is one of the foremost experts in the world on habits and habit forming. In fact, his book Atomic Habits is thought to be the text book on personal habit forming and change. Mr. Clear argues that what we need are habits not resolutions. His thoughts are crystalized in this article, but don’t stop there. Go and get the book. It will change your life. I would also encourage you to sign up for his weekly email. You can find it here. If books and emails are not your thing, you can get a cliff notes version on this episode of the Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast. Habits are better than resolutions. Your New Year’s resolution may have failed, but Lent is coming.
