Last night as I was working away on the last of my Christmas cards (I KNOW!!), I saw a piece of paper with my husbands handwriting--with a list of 7 questions and answers.
I couldn't resist reading every word he'd written. It was fascinating.
And, then I couldn't resist coming over here to tell you guys all about it!
The (fabulous and cool!) list of questions my husband had answered was from Michael Hyatt's blog. If you don't already read his blog, you should. It's amazing, and chock-full of helpful and inspiring advice about life and leadership and pursuing your dreams.
These 7 questions of Michael Hyatt's are a wonderful way to spend some time thinking about last year. There's no better way to set goals for the new year, than using last year as a gauge.
Here are the 7 questions to help you tie up 2012 in a pretty bow, before stepping into 2013. 2013 is fresh, with no mistakes (name that movie). I pray that 2012 inspires you to step into 2013 with your eyes fixed only on those things which are important.
1. If last year were a movie of your life, what would your genre be? Drama, romance, adventure, comedy, tragedy, or a combination?
Mine would be adventure, with some intrigue mixed in as I searched high and low, and high and low again to find better ways to help my child with dyslexia-type issues.
2. What were the two or three major themes that kept recurring? These can be single words or phrases.
Facing the reality of the (rising prices and non-rising salaries) economy in our personal finances and jobs.
Trying to make good long-term life and financial decisions, rather than the feel-good short-term ones we'd RATHER make.
Being more deliberate about bonding and making memories for our little family of four.
3. What did you accomplish this past year that you are the most proud of? These can be in any area of your life—spiritual, relational, vocational physical, etc. Be as specific as possible.
Receiving my first-ever paycheck as a writer!
Helping both daughters achieve some educational success this year! (And it has NOT been easy.)
Starting a new hobby for our family--hiking and adventuring!
Playing more board games together, and enjoying nights together, at home.
More consistent at having a daily devotional time.
4. What do you feel you should have been acknowledged for but weren’t? Okay, this is a little too personal for me to respond to directly.
5. What disappointments or regrets did you experience this past year? As leaders, we (Michael Hyatt) naturally have high expectations of ourselves and others. Where did you let yourself down? Where did you let others down?
I gave myself a break, and didn't teach my Christmas Around the World classes. As good as that was for me personally, part of me was sad to not to have taught them.
I haven't run in a month and a half. I have missed those endorphins.
I was reminded that even people I love dearly can disappoint me.
6. What was missing from last year as you look back? Again, look at each major area of your life. Don’t focus now on having to do anything about it. For now, just list each item.
I didn't read as many books. I blame you, Netflix!!!
A family vacation (Working on improving that one this week!!)
A maid.
And a clean house.
7. What were the major life-lessons you learned this past year? Boil this down to a few short, pithy statements.
Even the smallest daily commitment for devotions/quiet time reaps spiritual benefits I need and crave.
I need to remember (again and again) that love is an action. And I need to show it daily, and even when I don't feel like it, to the people in my life.
Create a home environment that is fun and uplifting...to come home to.
I sure would LOVE to hear some of your answers...!
Oh, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I sure do love ya'll. I really, really do!
