Okay, we’re all busy. But just like any earthly relationship needs quality time, so does your relationship with God! This is a big goal that you can break up into several smaller, actionable goals.

• Carve out daily prayer time.

• Study the Bible every day.

• Enjoy quiet time where you’re just still and listening.

• Play music that draws you into worship.

• Sing! (Remember, He will find it a joyful noise, no matter your talent level.)

Take on a couple of those ideas and remember this isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about drawing near to God.

Writing things down has a way of helping us focus, plus it leaves mile markers we can look back on along the way. Starting a prayer or contentment journal gives you focus during your time with God.

Colossians 3:17 says to do everything in His name. This can give you a new perspective on even the boring tasks of the day. Making dinner for the family? Cleaning house? Taking a walk in nature? These can feel like chores unless you tweak your perspective and realize that a joyful heart in these moments can honor God.

We say it a lot around here: Give yourself grace. We all mess up, and grace isn’t an excuse to keep making mistakes. It’s a beautiful gift from God. So, accept this gift—and give some of it to yourself.

Sometimes we find ourselves drawn to high-drama friends. They’re interesting, after all. But if you’re surrounded by people who pull you down, it’s time to find some new friendships. This could mean plugging in at church or with a small group. The main goal here is to cultivate relationships with people who love you as you are while also encouraging you to get better. Every day.

A generous heart is a full heart. So, make sure you’re giving! First, let’s talk about giving money. (Time’s up next.)

We believe in giving and tithing. Around Ramsey, we call giving the most fun you’ll have with money. Even when things are tight for your finances, giving money shifts the focus off of you and onto others. The amount you give won’t seem huge right now, but it still makes a difference, for your mindset and for those you’re helping!

One day, when you’ve walked those Baby Steps we talked about in the Financial Goals section and you get to Baby Step 7—you’ll be able to give like crazy! 

But the honest truth here is that the actual dollar amount you’re giving isn’t the point: It’s about having a heart that believes you’ve been blessed to be a blessing to others.

The next thing you should give is your time! Find a local school or charity and go there to shine some light on others. Again, yes, we’re all busy. But making a point of volunteering a couple times a year is an incredible spiritual goal.

There are plenty of other spiritual goals you can set for yourself—just make sure you set the ones that make the most sense for you this upcoming year!