As we step into a new year, many of us naturally begin thinking about New Year’s resolutions. Despite their mixed reputation in recent years, I am not opposed to resolutions at all. In fact, I believe they are important and even necessary.
Whether for a new year, a new month, a new week, or even a new moment, resolutions help us set intentions, grow, and keep our eyes focused on who we want to become in the months ahead. When approached thoughtfully, resolutions are good.
The challenge arises when we make them without prayerful reflection. Too often, we enter a new year thinking, “This is the year I’m going to do it all,” and our resolutions turn into a long list of goals, projects, and responsibilities. These plans are rarely paired with a realistic strategy or, more importantly, with time spent asking God what He desires for us.
When our goals are formed without discernment, they may not align with God’s will. And when that happens, discouragement and burnout often follow. Without prayerful reflection, we simply cannot know whether the path we are choosing is truly meant for us. God has a beautiful, fulfilling plan for each of our lives, uniquely shaped by who He created us to be and the gifts He has given us. Because of this, it is essential that we consult Him before taking on new commitments.
A dear friend of mine, Stacey Sumereau, host of the Called & Caffeinated Podcast, focuses on helping listeners discern God’s will in everyday life. We recently recorded an episode together on how to prayerfully discern new projects and avoid overcommitment. You can find it HERE!
Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta once said,
“The devil will tempt good people with many good things, so that they are doing so many things that they are not doing the one thing that they are called to do well.”
When I first heard this quote, it felt as though God was speaking directly to my heart. I am naturally drawn to “all the good things” because, after all, they are good. But when I try to do everything, I often lose sight of what God is specifically asking of me.
Many of us say yes to too much out of fear of missing out on something meaningful. Yet there is a surprising joy in missing out. When we say no to overcommitment, no to constant busyness, and no to good things that are not meant for us, we create space to say yes to something greater.
Yes to God’s will.
Yes to peace.
Yes to presence with those we love.
Yes to family, rest, and renewal.
Discernment looks different in every season of life. It changes depending on whether we are single, married, parenting, or navigating major transitions. Learning to prayerfully evaluate decisions, build healthy discipline, and prioritize what truly matters is essential in every stage.
If you find yourself tempted by busyness, overcommitment, or the desire to do it all, I encourage you to listen to the podcast episode and begin practicing intentional discernment. When we learn to choose what God is calling us to, rather than everything that simply looks good, we begin living with greater clarity, freedom, and peace. And that is what leads us to lasting fulfillment and true joy.
