Transform Your Year: Yearly Themes > Resolutions
Have you ever felt the familiar sting of a failed New Year's resolution? You're not alone. As church leaders, we're called to be examples of growth and transformation, but the traditional resolution approach often leaves us feeling defeated rather than inspired.
The Hidden Problem with Resolutions
Picture this: Last January, you resolved to read through the Bible in a year. By March, you were three weeks behind, and by June, you had completely abandoned the plan. Does this sound familiar? I know this has never happened to you; it’s just an example. The problem isn't your commitment – it's the rigid structure of resolutions themselves.
Introducing the Power of Yearly Themes
What if I told you there was a more grace-filled, transformative approach to personal and professional growth? Enter the concept of yearly themes. Instead of setting rigid goals like read the Bible in a year, you might choose a theme like the year of drawing closer or the year of reading.
Why Themes Work Better Than Resolutions
1. Themes Embrace the Journey
A resolution says: Read 4 chapters of the Bible daily
A theme says: This is a year of growth in Biblical Wisdom
2. Themes Allow for Grace
A resolution declares success or failure
A theme celebrates progress and growth in any form
3. Themes Shape Your Worldview
Resolutions focus on specific actions
Themes influence every decision and direction
Your Framework for Creating a Powerful Yearly Theme
Step 1: Reflect and Pray
What area of your life or ministry needs the most attention?
Where do you feel God calling you to grow?
What word or phrase keeps coming to mind when you pray about the year ahead?
Step 2: Choose Your Theme
Your theme should be:
Broad enough to encompass multiple areas of growth
Specific enough to guide decision-making
Memorable enough to keep top of mind
Examples:
The Year of Intentional Leadership
The Year of Health
The Year of Small Improvements
Step 3: Implementation Strategy
Monthly Check-ins: Schedule a recurring calendar appointment for the first Monday of each month. Ask yourself:
How has my theme influenced my choices this month?
What opportunities have I embraced or missed?
What adjustments could better align with my theme?
Quarterly Deep Dives: Set aside 2 hours every three months to review and refine. Do the following:
Review your journal entries and decisions
Identify patterns and areas for growth
Adjust your approach as needed
Making Your Theme Work For You
💡 Pro Tip: Create visual reminders of your theme. 💡
Set it as your phone wallpaper
Put it on your mirror so you see it every morning
The Power of Community
Share your theme with your leadership team and congregation. Not only does this create accountability, but it also inspires others to adopt their own themes, creates natural mentoring opportunities, and builds a culture of continuous growth.
Your Next Steps
Take time this week to pray and reflect on potential themes
Schedule your monthly and quarterly check-ins now
Share your theme with at least three trusted colleagues
Start journaling about how your theme might shape your year
Final Thoughts
Remember, a theme isn't about perfection – it's about progress. It's about creating a framework for growth that aligns with God's grace and your unique calling as a leader. Ready to embrace your yearly theme? Reply to this email and share what theme you're considering. I'd love to pray for you and offer any insights as you begin this journey.
P.S. Forward this to another church leader who might benefit from this approach to personal and professional growth.
Michael Visser
Co-founder, Threefold Solutions
P.S. We assist with coaching, training, strategy, and support.
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