Looking Back to Move Forward: Hello 2019, I’m Ready
Reflection
At the close of each year, I like to take time and reflect on the goals I established at the start of the year. My goals generally range from personal to family to professional. I have learned over the past seven years the importance of developing S.M.A.R.T. goals for myself. These goals help to lead me in the direction I want to accomplish for the year.
I am happy to say, 2018 was a great year. I’ve reached many of the goals I’ve set:
- More family time
- More community service
- Development of website and blog
However, 2018 was also tremendously challenging. I discovered a lot about myself that was only brought to light by being put in unpleasant and painful circumstances.
I’ve learned that I am:
- Stronger than I once believed
- Braver than given credit for
- Not limited by the perceptions of others
My faith had been tested and tried and ultimately set on fire. But NEVER demolished.
“But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold” Job 23:10
Goodbye and Hello
As I take time to reflect on the previous year, I also say goodbye. I have learned the importance of knowing when to move on. In order to start a new chapter of a book, I must first turn away from the previous chapter. Goodbye to 2018 and hello to 2019. With a faith now renewed and a determination unstoppable, I say hello to new opportunities, new challenges, new obstacles, and new triumphs.
Hello 2019, I’m Ready.
Pamela L. Barnes
December 31, 2018