"End-of-Year Reflection: How Are You Doing in Faith, Family, Fitness, and Finance?"

FAITH

Faith: What Is Advent?

Advent is the four-week season of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It’s a time to reflect on two monumental events: the birth of Christ in Bethlehem and His promised second coming.

This season is about much more than decorating and gift-giving—it’s about preparing our hearts for Christ. Each week of Advent traditionally focuses on a theme: hope, peace, joy, and love. Many people light candles on an Advent wreath to symbolize these, but even without the candles, you can embrace Advent through meaningful practices:

• Daily reflection: Set aside time to read scripture and pray. Reflect on the Christmas story and its significance in your life.

• Meditate on God’s promises: Isaiah 9:2 reminds us, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”

• Find ways to serve others: Following Christ’s example, look for opportunities to show love and generosity this season.

Advent reminds us that the busyness of the season isn’t the point. Instead, it’s a chance to prepare our hearts for the greatest gift ever given—Jesus Christ.

FAMILY

Family: Strengthening Relationships and Starting Traditions

The holidays are often when families gather—sometimes more than any other time of the year. Even if you live close to loved ones, this season can be a unique opportunity to reconnect and deepen relationships.

Start by reflecting on your family connections:

• Celebrate what’s working: Which relationships are thriving? How can you nurture those even more?

• Work on what’s not: Which relationships feel strained or distant? This might be the perfect time to reach out, apologize, or simply start fresh.

Consider starting a new holiday tradition to bring your family closer:

• Read the Christmas story from the Bible together: Share Luke 2 as a family and reflect on its meaning.

• Write handwritten notes: Expressing your gratitude and love through handwritten notes can make a lasting impact.

• Make intentional time for connection: Whether it’s a game night, a holiday movie marathon, or baking cookies together, create space for laughter and joy.

Relationships take effort, and the holidays are a perfect time to prioritize the people who matter most.

FITNESS

Fitness: Reflect and Measure Progress

As the year comes to a close, it’s a great time to reflect on your fitness journey. Dena shared an idea years ago that we still love: grade yourself on what you did—or didn’t do. This honest evaluation can help you celebrate wins, address challenges, and set meaningful goals for the new year.

Start by taking some tangible measurements:

• Body measurements: Check your height-to-waist ratio, weight, or even how your clothes are fitting.

• Performance: How much are you lifting? How far or fast can you run or walk compared to a year ago?

• Habits: How consistent have you been with exercise? How has your sleep quality changed?

Reflection is key to progress:

• Celebrate even small improvements—whether it’s lifting a little more, feeling more energetic, or sticking with a regular routine.

• Identify areas for growth—perhaps prioritizing sleep, improving diet, or adding variety to your workouts.

Fitness isn’t about perfection; it’s about moving forward. Use this reflection to adjust your approach and keep building a healthier lifestyle.

FINANCE

Finance: Grade Yourself and Make a Plan

Take an honest look at your financial situation this December. How do your finances compare to this time last year? Grading yourself can help identify progress and areas to improve:

• Savings goals: Are you closer to big milestones, like buying a home, paying off a car, or building an emergency fund?

• Debt management: Have you reduced your debt load, or is it growing?

• Spending habits: Are small daily expenses—like a morning coffee or takeout—adding up to more than you realized?

Once you’ve graded yourself, use this insight to plan for the year ahead:

• Create or revisit your budget to align with your long-term goals.

• Set realistic financial goals for 2024, whether it’s saving a specific amount, paying down a credit card, or cutting back on unnecessary spending.

• Celebrate small wins—like sticking to a budget, making an extra loan payment, or setting up an automatic savings transfer.

Finances can be a source of stress or a tool for freedom. The key is to reflect, adjust, and move forward with purpose.

Housekeeping

Kevin Davis Health : Subscribe here for Free- https://kevin-davis-healths-newsletter.beehiiv.com/subscribe