A new year brings fresh opportunity—and whether you love planning or avoid it altogether, 2026 is a chance to start again with clarity, confidence, and expectation. Planning isn’t about overloading your life with goals or chasing perfection. It’s about deciding on purpose what you want the next year to look like and inviting God into that vision.
Clarity creates confidence. When you know where you’re going, it’s easier to move forward with peace.
As we start to move towards the new year, here are some tips to set you in the direction of God’s best in 2026!
1. Look Back with Gratitude (Not Regret)
Before you plan ahead, take a moment to look back, not to criticize yourself, but to celebrate progress.
Ask yourself:
- What did I do well this past year?
- Where did I grow, even if it felt uncomfortable?
- What am I thankful for right now?
Gratitude builds faith for the future. When you recognize how far you’ve come, you’ll be more confident about where you’re going next.
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. Isaiah 43:18
2. Get Clear on What You Want in 2026
Goal setting doesn’t have to be complicated. It starts with simply asking:
What do I want this year to look like?
If it helps bring clarity, think in categories:
- Faith & personal growth
- Health & energy
- Family & relationships
- Work, calling, or finances
- Rest, fun, and memories
Write your goals down. Clarity begins when your vision leaves your head and hits the page.
Write the vision and make it plain. Habakkuk 2:2
3. Align Your Goals with God’s Direction
This doesn’t mean every goal has to sound spiritual; it means being open to God’s guidance as you plan.
Pray over your goals and ask:
- Does this bring peace?
- Does this align with the season I’m in?
- Does this move me closer to the life God has for me?
God isn’t intimidated by your dreams. He’s a partner in the process, and when you invite Him in, your goals gain purpose and direction.
4. Create Simple, Achievable Action Steps
Big goals become doable when you break them down.
Instead of saying:
“I want to get healthier,”
Try saying,
“I’ll walk 30 minutes three times a week.”
Instead of:
“I want to grow spiritually,”
Try saying,
“I’ll read one chapter of the Bible each morning.”
Small, consistent steps create momentum…and momentum builds confidence.
5. Schedule What Matters Most
Your calendar should reflect your priorities, not just your obligations.
Take time to schedule:
- Health routines
- Family time
- Personal growth
- Rest and margin
When you plan intentionally, you protect your peace and reduce overwhelm.
6. Expect Good Things in 2026
One of the most powerful things you can do is simply expect good.
Expect growth.
Expect clarity.
Expect progress—even if it comes slowly.
The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me. Psalm 138:8
You don’t have to have everything figured out. You just need to keep showing up, taking steps forward, and trusting that God is working with you and for you.
A Simple Planning Prayer for 2026
Heavenly Father,
I commit my plans to You.
Guide my steps, bring clarity to my decisions,
and help me stay focused on what matters most.
I choose to move into 2026 with confidence, expectation, and peace.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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