success |səkˈses| noun the accomplishment of an aim or purpose: She looked for the true meaning of success.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
As soon as this season starts, it’s inevitable to have New Year’s goals and resolutions. Success is something we all want, especially around this time of year. Whether we pursue success through a career, starting a family, launching a new business, or searching for significance by following our passions and dreams—we all strive for success in one way or another.
But I’ve found, the only way to attain “success” in any area of my life, is to set goals and stay committed to keeping them. Every January I set new goals for myself and decide on at least 12 books I will be reading each month of that year. I discovered Audible audiobooks this year and it’s making my reading plan so much easier! I love being able to listen to books while I decorate offices, drive, shop, or get ready in the morning.
I recently read The Forty-Day Word Fast: A Spiritual Journey to Eliminate Toxic Words From Your Life by Tim Cameron. This book is inspired by the idea that success can be found in our lives by simply changing the way we speak and removing toxic words from our vocabulary.
The Bible tells us that the tongue holds the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21). We are all aware of the power words can have over our self-esteem and our attitudes. Positive, life-giving, affirming, and encouraging words build us up—while negative, demeaning, and discouraging words tear us down (whether they are coming from ourselves, or from others).
Since we know this to be true, how can we expect to have success in our lives, our businesses, or our finances if we are constantly speaking toxic words over our circumstances?
“If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies.” Proverbs 3:10
The simple truth is this: we have the power to produce success in our lives. We have power through our choices, our attitudes, our actions, and through the way we choose to respond to negative situations.
My husband and I have a big passion for mentoring and developing individuals to become great leaders in business and entrepreneurship. But we know, half of the battle to becoming a great leader starts in the mind and comes out of the mouth. If you are going to be successful in your business, your finances, or your weight-loss goals—you have to start with a positive decision to do what it takes to succeed.
“I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
Though we can set goals and pursue good things for our lives, the Bible tells us that “A man’s heart plans his way but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) Whatever you choose to pursue in life, be sure that you are submitting all of it to God—ultimately putting Him first in everything you do. I honestly believe there is no success in life outside of a deeply personal, loving relationship with Him.
God loves you so much and wants good things for you! Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you… They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope!”
I am praying blessing for each of you for 2019—for success in your lives, your dreams, your desires, and your future! May this be your best year yet!!
XO-
Sabrina
