Take the Pressure Off

If I could encourage you for a moment…

I’d tell you to RELAX. .

And I’d say it lovingly, with complete care.

Because I know hearing (or reading) that word can make us want to do the exact opposite. Still, sometimes it’s exactly what we need to hear. In this case, it’s an invitation to take the pressure off—to release the anxious thoughts and heavy expectations surrounding the goals and plans you’ve set for this year.

Goal-setting, planning, making resolutions, and creating vision boards are all popular practices at the start of a new year—and they’re all necessary. In fact, these actions reflect forward-thinking with the intention of forward movement. However, it’s important to remember that our plans should, first, be rooted in purpose and, second, never come at the expense of our peace of mind or well-being.

Let’s be clear, though—this isn’t a call to slack off or stop striving. It’s simply a reminder that our worth isn’t measured by how quickly we complete a checklist or how much we can prove to ourselves—or anyone else. It’s an invitation to breathe and rest in the One who establishes our plans.

God never asked us to carry the weight of our future alone. He invites us to trust Him with our plans, our timing, and even our uncertainty. When we move from a place of anxiety, we often rush, compare, and exhaust ourselves. But when we move from a place of trust, we create space for clarity, peace, and purpose. After all, how far can anxious thoughts really carry us?

A reminder:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

-Phil. 4:6-7

This year, let your goals be guided by faith—not fear. Pray about them and accept the peace that God provides.

Keep in mind, progress doesn’t have to be pressured, and growth doesn’t have to be heavy. Sometimes the most faithful step forward is simply choosing to breathe, trust, and keep going—one faith-filled step at a time.

I hope you feel a bit more encouraged to relax and take the pressure off.

If so, feel free to share your thoughts below, or what you plan to change about your approach to this year’s plans.

Be Well,

~B🤎