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Grit Over Genius: How to Make a Great 2018

Grit over Genius: How to Make a Great 2018

There is something universally exciting about a new year.

Hopes and dreams, a clean slate, taking new territory, and big plans are greatly anticipated.

New Year’s resolutions and wishful thinking rarely help you achieve what you desire. Realizing the 2018 you dream about requires preparation, discipline and focus.

You will encounter setbacks, speedbumps and surprises you didn’t see coming. But the size and clarity of your vision for the year will help provide the grit you need to keep going.

There is a direct correlation between your purpose, plan and preparation, and the year you will actually experience. Execution without preparation is just busyness.

When you include significant amounts of prayer, you are setting yourself up for a great year.

A Seven-Point Game Plan to Set You Up for a Great 2018:

1) Restore key relationships

Restoration is one of the great themes of Scripture. It’s a primary responsibility for all Christ followers. On a practical level, it’s nearly impossible to function at your peak potential if you are distracted by broken, hurting or dysfunctional relationships.

From the proverbial elephant in the room at work to a significant family breakdown, do whatever it takes to restore any relationship that is core in your life. From your boss to your spouse, make it right.

2) Forgive those who have hurt you

Jesus modeled forgiveness for us. It’s not always easy, but it’s not an option. You may or may not be in a key relationship with someone you need to forgive, but either way, forgiving those who have hurt or wronged you is essential.

Lack of forgiveness is like a cancer that eats at you from the inside. It’s often unseen, but the results can be devastating if not dealt with.

Forgiving someone doesn’t always happen fast, but it always begins in a moment. I’ve counseled with many people who say, “I just can’t quite get there.” That is understandable, but you can start.

Forgiving is a decision that is made in your mind and is connected to how you feel. God will then give you the grace to complete the process.

3) Evaluate your results from 2017

Set aside a minimum of one hour. Have your calendar handy. Write clear notes on your major accomplishments and major mistakes or failures.

Think through what caused the successes and what caused the breakdowns.

  • What did you learn?
  • How did you grow?
  • What will you do differently?

This doesn’t have to be a super long “dissertation” kind of arduous process, but it does need to be an honest process. My experience is that this piece can be done in less than two hours.