We’re officially one month into the new year! How are you holding up so far?
Lately, I’ve been seeing social media posts that say, “Today feels like January 75th,” and honestly? I feel that. January has been long, emotional and challenging… But, also productive!
At the start of January, I jumped into a new project. After taking time off in 2024 to rest, recalibrate and realign, I was excited to pursue fresh ideas. But, this particular project has not come without its challenges. There have been moments of discouragement when I’ve questioned if it’s worth the hassle, the stress and the uncertainty. Each time though, my answer remains the same: Yes, it is absolutely worth it!
When I feel like giving up, I go back to my why factor: the reason I started pursuing the goal in the first place. I remind myself of the impact this work can have on others and that alone gives me the strength to keep pushing forward.
This blog post is for:
Those pursuing their goals and walking in their calling, even when it feels hard.
Those investing time, energy and resources into their dreams, and have not seen results yet.
Those feeling discouraged, because their current reality does not match what God promised them.
First, I want to remind you that everything that exists, first started as an idea. Before it’s seen in the physical, it already exists in the spiritual. The manifestation of what you are working towards is already in motion; it’s just a matter of strategic action, faith and time.
Second, I encourage you to do what I do: remember your why! Why did you start? Why does this goal matter to you?
Now, lets dive deeper.
When the tears are in my eyes and the weight of it all feels like too much, these are the steps I take to navigate discouragement, without giving up!
1) Pause
Acknowledge how you feel and why, because it’s valid. Then, step away for a bit. Take a break. Rest. Spend time with loved ones. Do things that bring you joy. Giving yourself space does not mean you are quitting; it means you are refueling.
2) Surrender
Journal. Pray. Lay your dreams, talents, desires and plans before God. Ask Him for wisdom and guidance.
A Prayer of Surrender:
Father, I commit all of my dreams, desires and plans to you. I trust that you’ve placed it in my heart for a reason. Guide my steps with wisdom daily. Give me clarity and peace as I move forward. Help me to release control and surrender the outcome to you. IF this is your will, strengthen me to keep going. If it’s not, redirect me to something greater. Amen!
3) Re-evaluate and Re-align
Take a step back and review your goal. Are there roadblocks you didn’t anticipate? Are limiting beliefs holding you back? Now that you’ve started the journey, you have a better understanding of the challenges ahead. Identify areas of opportunity and consider alternate routes (your Plan B, C, or D).
Through prayer, journaling and simply living each day, clarity will come.
4) Take Action and Keep Going
This is YOUR journey. Don’t let comparison steal your joy. If social media is triggering doubt, unfollow and mute what you need to. Set boundaries. Prioritize rest. Stay prayer. And, most importantly… keep showing up!
There are days when I post on social media and feel like I’m talking to myself, because I have not ye seen much engagement. But, I made a promise to God and to myself: that I will keep trying. I’m not in it for the short-term, I’m in it for the long haul.
How about you?
If this post encouraged you, please share it with someone who might need it today.
And, for my ladies, I have something to share with you!
I create a new Facebook group: The Goal Getters Gathering. It’s a space for women who are committed to setting and slaying goals aligned with their God given purpose, while navigating their mental wellness journey. If you’re looking for friendship, encouragement, accountability and a community of like-minded women, I’d love for you to join us!
Let’s do this together!
keziamarie.co 