A New Year, a New You

By Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret.

There’s something powerful about the turning of the calendar. A new year feels like a fresh page—filled with possibility, hope, and the chance to rewrite parts of our lives that no longer serve us. But as inspiring as January motivation can be, many of us know how easily resolutions fade. The gym gets quieter, journals go untouched, and the excitement that once pushed us forward starts to dim.

What if this year could be different?

The New Year isn’t about becoming someone entirely new; it’s about becoming more intentional with who you already are. It’s about choosing growth, purpose, and consistency—one decision at a time.

Reflect Before You Reset

Lasting change begins with honest reflection. Before you set goals, look back:

• What challenged you last year?
• What strengthened you?
• Where did you grow?
• What still needs attention?

Reflection grounds your resolutions in real experience, not wishful thinking. It helps you choose goals that actually matter instead of ones that simply sound impressive.

Choose Progress Over Perfection

One of the biggest reasons resolutions fail is the pressure to do everything perfectly. Real change happens in small, steady steps. Progress is built through ordinary days filled with consistent choices. Miss a day? Start again the next. Fall short? Learn and adjust. Consistency beats intensity every single time.

Set Goals That Grow With You

Instead of vague resolutions like “be healthier” or “be better,” create meaningful, measurable intentions:

• “I will move my body 20 minutes a day.”
• “I will read 15 minutes every evening.”
• “I will be intentional about prayer, gratitude, or reflection daily.”
• “I will nurture relationships by checking in regularly with the people who matter.”

These kinds of goals don’t just change habits; they shape character.

Surround Yourself With Encouragement

You are far more likely to stick with positive change when you aren’t walking the journey alone. Share your goals with family and friends. Celebrate small wins. Invite accountability and encouragement. A supportive environment can fuel determination when motivation fades.

Remember Your “Why”

When days get busy and discipline feels heavy, remind yourself why you started. Whether your goals focus on faith, health, relationships, or personal growth, your why gives meaning to the work. Purpose fuels perseverance.

This Year Can Be Different

The New Year is more than fireworks, countdowns, and resolutions. It’s an opportunity to grow stronger, wiser, more grateful, and more intentional. You don’t have to overhaul your life to make it meaningful—you simply have to stay committed to the right direction.

Here’s to a year of steady progress. A year of choosing growth. A year of becoming who you were created to be—one faithful step at a time.

Happy New Year—this is your year to build something lasting.

Encouragement