Psalm 90:12 reads: “Teach us to number our days, so that we may gain a heart of wisdom”. It was a prayer of Moses asking God’s guidance as he sought to make each day meaningful, purposeful, and impactful.
That is a great consideration as we start a new year!
As I reflected on this verse, three key thoughts came to mind.
Perspective impacts every circumstance
Romans 12:2 tells us: “Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds”. The world tells us to be discontented, dissatisfied, and dismayed. The world further tells us to take care of ourselves, focus on self, and elevate self above all others.
A different perspective, regardless of the circumstances, starts with our thoughts. Being thankful for what we have rather than focused on what we don’t have changes everything. Being thankful for who we are with rather than consumed with who we aren’t with changes everything.
We don’t need new circumstances; we need a new perspective. We need new thinking, not new circumstances. If we want more joy in 2026, it will start with our thoughts. The key to renewing our thoughts is to renew our intake throughout the day.
Is 2026 a year of renewal for you? It starts with your thoughts.
Purpose is the foundation for everything
Every person I talk with and every organization that I meet with knows what they are doing to varying degrees. However, very few know why. Very few invest the time to think about purpose beyond some identified target or goal.
Purpose provides meaning beyond some achievement, acquisition, or targeted result. Purpose is something that can unite people. Purpose provides motivation when the outcomes aren’t clear.
Several years ago, I defined my purpose as Matthew 5:16: “To let my light shine before others so that they see good works and glorify God”. That purpose/verse is the underlying driving force behind what I do every day.
Is 2026 a year of purpose for you? Identifying purpose is worth your time.
Persistence could be your superpower
I have talked at length about focusing on consistency more than intensity. Just showing up matters. Every time you do something on a consistent basis, you are making a deposit into becoming something new.
Persistency matters when talent isn’t enough. Persistency is a strength any of us can exhibit, but few embrace it. It’s not pretty, but it is powerful!
I work out early every morning. It wouldn’t really matter much physically if I skipped a morning. In fact, no one workout even matters that much. However, when I stack those workouts on top of one another, it makes a difference. Also, I make that deposit every morning into becoming something new. Persistence matters!
Is 2026 a year of persistence for you? What area of your life do you need to show persistence?
2026 is a year to number our days and make it count!
Doug provides professional speaking and coaching services to organizations and individuals. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build a team culture, feel free to reach out to Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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