Carrying Joy Forward

Carrying JOY Forward

What do you like most about the thought of a new year?

As this year comes to a close, I notice how my mind wants to spin many plates. For so many years, I lived on adrenaline — rushing, striving, planning everything at once. This year feels different. I’m not rushing to define what’s next… and honestly, that’s been harder than I expected.

Don’t get me wrong — I’m still planning. But not with the goal of pleasing others or pushing myself to the point of breaking. I’m a life coach not only for others, but for myself, and this season has reminded me how important it is to practice what I teach.

This healing season - 53 months - has taught me that reflection is just as valuable as planning. That joy doesn’t come from pushing forward — it comes from walking gently with God into what’s ahead.

Instead of asking, “What should I do better next year?”
I’m asking a softer question:
“What do I want to carry with me?”

Friend, it's time to let go of what is no longer serving you.

Each year, I reflect and pray for a word to guide me — something that keeps me grounded in God’s plans rather than my own pressure. Past years have been words like joy, margin, trust, and surrender. And year after year, God has met me — faithfully, patiently, daily.

I already have my word for the year ahead… and I can’t wait to share it with you in my next Joy Drop!

Joy Tip: Choose What Comes With You

As you step into the new year, pause and consider:
What rhythms brought you peace this year?
What practices supported your body and soul?
What moments reminded you that God was near?
What will be my word or reflection theme for 2026?

Let those be what you carry forward — not pressure, not perfection, but presence.

Scripture to Hold Joy

Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
and streams in the wasteland — Isaiah 43:18–19

Joy for the Journey

You don’t have to have it all figured out — I sure don’t. And yet, I’m learning to love this perfectly imperfect life. It’s okay to get excited about planning, as long as we don’t give in to pressure.

Jesus will meet you as you walk — and that’s where true joy is found. One gentle step at a time.