Okay everyone, the rubber meets the road now. We've stated our goals, but putting them on the calendar is another thing. It takes (a calendar) your good intentions and turns them into action steps FOR THE NEXT TEN WEEKS (as much as possible this week, and filling in blanks at least one week in advance).
Money--if you have a specific Christmas budget (some of you mentioned cash only, or a set amount), where are you going to save it (which paycheck, savings account, etc.) and how much will you set aside each week. Put these memos into your calendar--check them off when you have completed each commitment. Begin your Christmas list by name, dollar amount and gift ideas (look for the 3-gift idea in coming weeks for closest family members and/or drawing names--a traditional method of sharing Christmas with extended family). Start to watch for sales or order online gifts now/early to avoid rush shipping charges.
Calories--plan your regular meals one day in advance, but NOTE NOW any dates on your calendar for parties, travel or events that require your attention to your goals: shopping for groceries in advance of needing to pack travel snacks and sandwiches or preparing early dinners (so you are not hungry) before holiday parties or meetings. Also plan your exercise schedule for the next 10 weeks. Plan one more workout a week than necessary, in case one of your "regularly scheduled" workouts falls through. If you don't need it, it can be a bonus or a relief!
Time--take care to plan MARGIN now into your calendar. Are you traveling, having company, attending church and having folks for dinner on the same day? Begin now to do ANYTHING you can to prepare ahead of time. As you look at the next 10 weeks, pencil in your "time alone with God." Will you be in a car for hours, in a hotel with TV watchers, or visiting family? Think/plan ahead for protecting your appointment with God...
10 Weeks will come and go quickly...and very often, last minute details add stress and extinguish the reason for the season. 10 Weeks--find a calendar (week at a glance, month at a glance, outlook, or iCal, OR "google" a free calendar and fill in all the days/dates and create a colorful, joyful, important place to record your goals.
Be encouraged,
Becky
A noble man makes noble plans and by noble plans he stands...Isaiah 32:8...
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I would like to have an accountability partner online. We could email each other. Is anyone willing to do this with me?
ReplyDeleteBridgette - I'd be happy to be an accountability partner with you. My name is Staci Cosby - and my email is staci.cosby@gmail.com - drop me a note!
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