Catholic guide with 5 feasible ideas for New Year’s resolutions

The new year is in full swing and many take advantage of this time of year to set resolutions. However, it can be difficult for a Catholic to set goals that are achievable and lead to spiritual growth.

Setting goals as a Catholic doesn’t have to be a challenge—aim to set goals that are practical and faith-centered. Below are five goals that will help you keep Christ at the center of your daily life.

1. Perform daily spiritual meditations

Starting your day with a spiritual meditation is one of the best ways to keep Jesus at the center of your life. Daily spiritual meditation has many benefits, including finding a sense of stillness and inner peace, experiencing a calmer mind, and growing in your spiritual life. I find that meditating on the day’s readings and reading about the day’s saint prepares me for a faith-filled day in which I can honor Christ.

2. Join a Bible study

By participating in a Bible study group, you will experience an uplifting support group, a community of faithful people, and opportunities to serve your church. Most Bible studies focus on one book of the Bible or a specific Bible reading for the week, and then the group meets the following week to discuss their ideas in more depth. Bible studies are a great way to learn more about your faith and community and grow closer to Christ.

3. Seek spiritual direction

Receiving guidance from a trusted Catholic counselor, whether a priest, religious, or lay person, is one of the best ways to navigate the spiritual life, examine one’s actions, and grow as a Catholic. Finding someone you trust and feel comfortable sharing your thoughts with can significantly help you grow in the practice of virtues.

4. Pray the Rosary

It may be difficult to find a time to pray the Rosary, but by praying this Marian prayer, you will receive many graces, as knowing the Mother of Jesus better will help you grow closer to her Son. By honoring Mary, we deepen our faith. Plan a daily time that works for you and make your rosary accessible to make it easier for you to pray it daily.

5. Attend Mass daily

Setting aside time to see Jesus every day and worship Him is a blessed goal we can set. By attending Mass every day instead of just once a week on Sundays, we can receive more grace, more easily let go of sin, and grow in holiness, which should always be our goal.

Editor’s note: This article is a translation of a post by Elaine Gunthorpe on the blog of the National Catholic Register. The opinions expressed in this article correspond exclusively to its author.