3 Things to STOP DOING Next Year

Statistically, most people make and break New Year’s Resolutions by the middle of January.  I’ve stopped making resolutions to do something but use the turn of the calendar as an opportunity to stop doing something.

My choice flies in the face of my natural inclination to add more and more to my personal and professional plate.  However, over the years, I find that my intentionality does not need to focus on adding but subtracting.  So here are a few attitudes and behaviors that you can stop doing in the new year:

1. Stop comparing yourself, your business and your family to others.  Andy Stanley says “There’s no win in comparison.”  (Click Here for his talks on that subject).  Take finances, for example.  If you compare yourself to someone who has more, it may push you into a desperate sense that you’re in the poor house and cause erratic spending habits in order to achieve their level.  If you compare yourself to someone who has less, it can cause pride.  Comparison can be positive if it is used to inspire you to be better, but most of us struggle with over-comparing.
2. Stop giving your time away.  Only within the past few years have I been really intentional about creating margin in my calendar.  Margin is a space in which you create “free-time.”  That free-time can be used for relaxing, relational connecting or hobbies that generate a sense of refreshment.
3. Stop being a victim.  There are circumstances beyond our control.  We have to do what our boss says.  We have to pay bills.  We have to step through the doors of duty.   But much of our life-events can be control by two simple words, “Yes” and “No.”  God has given us a great power of choice during our day and unless you’re being physically restrained, you have that power of choice.

Question:  What do you need to Stop Doing in 2013?

Peace!

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