In January, the gym next door to the church becomes a hub for resolution makers. The parking lot fills to capacity as excited goal setters make this year, "the year to get healthy". Having been at this church for well over a decade, I know that by the time March hits, two thirds of the cars have disappeared. Resolutions have been abandoned as the realities of life and numerous temptations take priority.
Most of us probably know what it is like to have a goal that we fall short of achieving. Whether it was to organize the shelf, get a master's degree or quit smoking, each unattained goal comes with consequences, from disappointment to death. Unfinished or failed attempts at reaching a target can have a demoralizing effect, often leading to complacency. The it's-fine-how-it-is-attitude or procrastination sets in and can rob us of opportunity, freedom, money, health, and more. It can be difficult to get motivated or pick ourselves back up after falling, but we need to remember that setting goals is good for us. Having something to work toward is good for our minds, bodies, and spiritual growth. To be successful in our endeavours, we need to be wise in our choices and timing. Take the following into consideration when deciding your next goal:
1. Have I brought it to God?
Have I talked to God about my desire or challenge?
Have I asked God for strength, provision, etc.?
Have I listened to what God has to say about it?
2. Is it attainable?
Is it realistic?
Do I have the resources (time, money, etc.)?
Do I have the skill or knowledge needed?
3. Is the timing right?
Am I having to forgo responsibilities to make this happen?
Am I sacrificing too much to make this happen right now?
Are the important people in my life in agreement and supportive?
Would I be endangering myself or others by NOT starting now?
Not every goal, such as organizing a shelf, has to go through this process. Unless of course, you have an out-of-control organizing addiction. Anything that is going to take time, money, support, long-term commitment, or any other significant part in your life should be well considered before beginning, so that you can give yourself your best chance to succeed.
As teachers, it is not only necessary to have personal goals for our own development, but to have goals for the classroom as well. We are in a privileged position to be able to influence and impact the lives and faith of so many. We need to challenge ourselves to take an honest assessment of what we bring to the classroom. What are we doing well? What ideas do we have for improving? What are we totally clueless about? Taking a realistic look at our strengths and weaknesses can encourage and direct us toward goals that would improve the time spent with the children.
What goals could you have for your personal life that would positively effect your teaching? What goals could you have for the classroom that would make a difference? Feel free to share your goals in the comment section and to encourage each other.
