Dec 24, 2015

2016 GOAL SETTING, PART 1 + THE ULTIMATE NEW YEAR’S GIVEAWAY

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GoalSetting2016

Hi and welcome to the fifth annual Make It Happen Goal Setting series! This year is going to be a little different. And we are on the way to see my parents in Florida for the week as I type this, so forgive any typos!

First though, some news : )

After two years of praying, we have been chosen for our adoption. Lord willing, we will be welcoming our littlest girl in late February or early March (due March 6th). We are feeling all the feelings: excited, scared, nervous, and in awe of God’s plans. We are still in shock and don’t totally know how to feel yet, but every time Ari and I look at each other with the look of, How in the world are we going to take care of two babies and a busy Grace!?, we remind each other that it’s not about us. Never in a million years would we have envisioned adopting, or even having kids together, when we first met ten years ago. God had far better plans than us. He will equip us–and part of that might be breaking us along the way in order to build us back up again. Where we can’t, He can. Thank you to the countless friends who have been praying through our journey. We ask for your continued prayers as we prepare our hearts and home, prayers for our expectant mother, and for the little one growing inside of her. Thank you in advance for praying alongside us!

Photo by Emily March Photography // www.emilymarchphotography.com

I lack a worthy transition here, but it still feels right in step. I’ve declared 2016, The Year of Getting Messy — embracing imperfect grace-filled progress. Why? Every time I have found myself chasing “perfect,” I’ve felt anxiety creep up. When I fear not being enough, I strive and try to control things, and it gets me nowhere. The chase for perfect—trying to rise to an unattainable standard—has been known to wake me up at 3am. It makes me a distracted mom, wife, and friend, because my head is somewhere else. I lose patience. I rush around trying to do it all. Everyone around me feels rushed too. I start to expect bad things to happen because life feels cattywompus and out of my control. I lose hours and days of my life to worry. I don’t use my days well. I wind up exhausted. When I find myself chasing perfect, I forget this truth: my worth doesn’t depend on someone else’s approval, or my own abilities, or an anything you can see with your eyes. Are you with me?

Chasing Perfect from Twenty-One Films on Vimeo.

You can’t simultaneously do it all and do life well

Let that sprout in your heart for a minute. You cannot do it all and do life well.

But you can choose to cultivate what matters. And that means letting go and making a mess at times.

Gardening without getting your hands dirty is like trying to run with your running shoes sitting pretty in your closet. I’ve tried this, stepping out into the tomato vines in white pants, thinking I’ll just pick a few fire-red fruits, prune a couple rogue vines, and walk away dirt-less. Doesn’t happen. No matter how hard I try. And you know what? I end up missing the JOY of what the garden calls me to: being fully present right where I am. Hands, heart, mind, feet — all of me present and grateful. Content in the mess. There is freedom in the imperfect, friend. I can’t hold my iPhone and plant seeds at the same time. Watering my zinnias doesn’t happen if I’ve got my head somewhere else. I end up watering the car or the pavement, wasting life-giving nutrients. Keeping my pants clean isn’t possible when pruning ‘matoes (as we call them). Have you seen the jungle of our yellow pear vines? They were over twenty feet tall this year! The garden begs for my full attention, and when I give it, the garden grows.

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Planting seeds is risky. It’s putting our whole trust in something bigger than us. It’s letting go. I know that, to plant these seeds, I first have to stop and break through the ground. I have to get my hands dirty in the soil — and that takes two undistracted hands.

Getting messy—embracing imperfect progress and taking physical steps forward even though it’s risky and scary and unknown—that’s where the good stuff happens.

And that’s where we are starting this year. Together, we’re going to break through the hard ground of winter to plant good seeds. We’re going to step into the imperfect and have some fun! This is Grace-Filled Goal Setting, with open hands. Let’s invite in the mess and unearth the good stuff. Ready to choose purpose over perfect? Me too!

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Here’s what you can expect in this series: I’m going to walk through a small sampling of the steps from my book and the PowerSheets, and some extras we’ve never done before! 

If you are using the PowerSheets: Everything you need is in there! You’ll see some steps from the PowerSheets here in my blog series, but you have lots of extra steps too : ) UPDATED: If you missed out on the SOLD OUT PowerSheets, we just opened pre-orders for our next shipment! Get yours here.

If you are reading my book: It was written for this season of goal setting. Get messy and write all over your paperback copy. This book was designed to be an action book, not just a reading book. Section Four is the Action Guide that walks through faith-based goal setting steps. You can order a copy here in paperback, e-book, Kindle, or audiobook. If you are blogging your Make it Happen journey, you can get lots of free downloadable graphics to use here.

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Speaking of downloads, I asked my publisher if I could give you a free download of the first part of my book to encourage you in your goals this year, and they said yes! Thank you, team Thomas Nelson! Download it HERE. Enjoy : )

If you are using both the Make It Happen book + PowerSheets together: I designed them to work together. This is the best combo. When you get to Section Four of the book, work through the PowerSheets along with that section. Up to you, though! You can do this however you like.

Do you need either of these to have an intentional year? No, but my prayer is that these tools help you. If you do this blog series and only have scrap paper handy to write your answers, that’s great too : ) It’s not about the perfect stuff, it’s about how you USE what you have.

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Take action. This is the key to this series. As we go through each step together, use the comment area here to leave your answers or write them in your PowerSheets or a journal. But, don’t just think them. Thinking them doesn’t count. Write them out and, if you want accountability, leave them boldly here in the comments. I want to cheer you on, and this year I’m going to leave some of my answers in the comments too! Friends, help me out here and cheer each other on, too. You never know who how your words might change someone! And if you need an extra kick in the pants to make it happen, I have a giveaway at the end that might encourage you : )

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STEP ONE: What have you been chasing? Do you feel like you are “chasing perfect” in some ways—attempting to measure up to an impossible standard? Write or type here what you have been chasing, and how that has been making you feel. Maybe you’ve been chasing success, significance, or approval. Maybe you’ve been trying to keep up, survive, or just get through. Whatever you’ve been chasing, name it boldly and know that you are not alone. To name your chase is to destroy it.

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STEP TWO: How are you? Vulnerability is where change begins. In order to leap into the new, we first must know where we are leaping from. The golden question: How are you? Allow yourself to be vulnerable and write or say the things that feel sticky. Your worries today can directly affect what you write next, so don’t shove them under the table. Acknowledge them. Reply in the comments, or on paper right now.

And don’t get stuck in the negative soil. Have grace with yourself and think about what you’re grateful for in each category along with the challenges! Include thoughts about what is good in each area, too! For instance, as for my feelings about money: I have become more skilled at managing money, but I’ve been challenged by contentment and emotional spending.

Here are some prompts to help you (and a free printable here!):

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Be still with your feelings—whatever they may be—without trying to change them or push them away immediately. Let’s get to know the ground you’ll be planting in. Maybe it needs some new soil or fresh nutrients. Whatever it is, evaluate where you are first in order to know how to leap to what’s next!

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STEP THREE: What worked in 2015? Now let’s take a look back at the last year. What grew well and produced fruit in your life? What are you grateful for from the last twelve months? What good things happened? I know this can be a challenging step for many. We don’t like counting our blessings because it may feel self-indulgent or like it won’t get us anywhere fast, or perhaps you are thinking that there were no good things that happened! It’s easy to look back at an entire year and see only the yucky parts, like when something happens to you at the end of the day and you automatically call it a bad day, regardless of what happened the other twenty-three hours.

Let’s do a little digging! A few tips to unearth the good stuff:

1. Talk to your significant other or a close friend about your year and ask him or her to reflect some of the highlights back to you. He or she may remember some that you have forgotten! This is also a wonderful way to celebrate the good things of the past year with others. Make it your dinner conversation tonight. (I made some free Celebration Meal printables for you in cool colors here or warm colors here!)

2. Take a look back at your calendar, blog posts (if you blog), social media updates, or photos. Those might give you a clue into some of the highlights you’ve forgotten.

3. As you reflect on the good things this past year, say thank you to those people who were a part of them. Whether through texts, e-mails, phone calls, or physical letters, make gratitude happen! If you want a special gratitude letter to send to the people you love, print one out here.

Here is my own list from my PowerSheets, and a few extras I uncovered going through my calendar and talking to Ari : )

Lara Casey 2016 Goal Setting 111

– This was my first year with a new name, and I am so grateful to be Mrs. Isaacson!
– I began the year pregnant with Joshua and we became active in our adoption process.
– I can’t believe it’s been a year since I released Make it Happen. I wasn’t prepared for the post-book PR push, but I learned a lot and am grateful for it.
– We decided to partner with Love One Another Project. We love you, Carol and Brian!
The Office Reno happened!
– In January, we began interviewing for a new team member. More on how that turned out at the end of this list, because it took up till last Friday!
– Ari and I did an eight-week Marriage Dynamics class through our church, and it was awesome.
– We released a new shop website and brand in February!
IF local was life-changing.
– Our local community of friends was incredible this year. So many new relationships cultivated through our family group, “Tuesday” group, mamas group (I love you Alison, Kayte, Emily, Andrea, Bryce, Lauren, Natalie, Janel, Marie, and Andrea!), Ladies Bible Bunch and lots more.
– The garden. I don’t have words. I planned to do more flowers this year, knowing I wouldn’t be able to prune tomatoes and care for as many veggies with a new baby this year. It was glorious. The bees and butterflies and goldfinches were magical!
– The Making Things Happen Conference. I can’t even call it a conference anymore. It’s an experience, and this year—both in the spring and fall—it was life-changing.
– We led our annual Passover dinner together, which has been such a joy the last few years. I love seeing Ari teach and I double love how much Grace loves Passover!
– I did a Skype call with Anne Austin and her girl scout troupe. It was my favorite “speaking” I’ve done all year. Anne, you are a gift and I hope Grace grows up to be as joy-filled and focused on the Lord as you are!
– Blogging my goals and PowerSheets progress definitely worked. It kept me accountable! Goal progress: March, April, May, June, July, August.
– This was a milestone year for me with Southern Weddings. There was no way around this, but I had a baby right as our busiest season with magazine prep began. I’ve done layout for each issue and image selection every year… except this one. I had to let go, trust, and I prayed for my team. God listened and they created what I think is our best issue yet! I hadn’t even seen a proof until the week before we went to press. Nicole knocked it out of the park with design, Emily and Lisa created some of the most meaningful content I’ve ever seen or read, and Marissa and Kristin brought the issue to life with our best sponsor pages ever. It’s just so good and I am so grateful!
– In the summer, I got a call from Lysa TerKeurst that changed everything. She brought her team over to my house and we learned and shared and a friendship sprouted. Lysa is someone I greatly admire for her business acumen and deep love for God. That first meeting with her team changed the way we do business, and it encouraged me to keep going with my writing. Thank you, Lysa!
– Our second-annual Team Retreat was powerful
– I could write an entire blog post about this, but Lisa’s wedding was a highlight of my year.
– And then Em told us she was pregnant during a staff meeting. I am pretty sure I threw my phone across the room (accidentally!) in joy! She is going to be such a great mom.
– We took a family trip to Jamaica and I read Interrupted. Both of these things changed us. See here.
– In the way back from Jamaica, God had a little surprise. Right as we got through US customs, I heard, “Lara!!!” Low and behold, there was Renee Swope. This was such a God thing. I had just told Ari that I wished I had a mentor and someone to encourage me in my writing. He brought me Renee. We have become dear friends and she has most definitely encouraged me. I love you friend!
– Fruitful Summer! It. Was. Awesome. I enjoyed creating and living this summer series about relationships so much. You can download the entire 100+ page magazine after signing up for my newsletter in the sidebar of this blog : )
– Nicole and I spent countless hours redesigning, testing, and dreaming about the 2016 PowerSheets. This was the first year we incorporated color, offered a bound version, offered full year versions, added stickers, and I rewrote and changed literally every page to make it even more fun and meaningful. We had no idea we would sell out so fast. We couldn’t order more in time for the new year, so if you missed out this year, do this series and grab a copy of my book. And be sure to sign up for my monthly newsletter so you are the first to know when the 2017 PowerSheets are available in the fall! UPDATED: If you missed out on the SOLD OUT PowerSheets, we just opened pre-orders for our next shipment! Get yours here.
– I spoke at the Influence Network’s Creative Women’s Summit. This was humbling. I was nervous to speak alongside Lysa and Jess who are seasoned and gifted speakers. I sat on a stool on stage with my notes and Joshua in my belly and did my best, but I left feeling like speaking just wasn’t my thing. I felt doubt and lack and I had to let go and sit in those feelings of inadequacy. I was reminded once again of Moses. Moses is my homeboy. He felt inadequate and told God he couldn’t speak to Pharaoh. I feel you Moses! But, God helped him and history changed because of it. God used an imperfect man to lead an entire people to freedom. I’m no Moses, but we serve the same God who makes the impossible possible. That speaking experience reminded me that it’s not about my ability; it’s about His power.
– I really enjoyed the consulting and coaching I did this year. I got to know some incredible women, and saw their businesses and lives soar!
– Come summer, we were still deep in the interview process. We had gone through over 300 resumes and done over 30 interviews by that point. But, we still hadn’t found the right match. So we started over and reposted the job description with new details! I prayed and prayed and prayed some more that God would bring the right person to us. His answer was completely unexpected! More in a bit…
– Blueberry picking in, Grace’s love of swimming, being out in the garden, hosting house church in July, new friends, time with friends on my couch talking about life and praying together, and summer BBQ’s including a memorable team dinner — all worked. I love summer in Chapel Hill!
– I haven’t shared this yet, but it’s worth noting. TLC was interested in doing a TV show about our little office. The production company was lovely and kind and it seemed like a wonderful and meaningful fit, but we decided to say no and stay small. I am grateful for that decision. Our lives and lifestyles might have changed in a way that would alter the sweetness of our company culture, and we didn’t want that to happen. : )
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– After years of this season being bananas in my house with boxes and people helping us pack orders, something had to change. Last Christmas, my parents came to visit and we couldn’t get to the dining room table for all the boxes. We spent months searching for a solution that would still allow us to have a personal connection with our customers. We found a great fulfillment team right down the road! The shop moved out of my house and we can still bring handwritten notes to them to include in orders when needed. There are still links to work out, but I am so grateful to not have constant shipping madness here!
– I had Joshua : ) That worked. He is wonderful. Read his name story here, birth story here, and thoughts on life after baby here.
– I had to stop eating soy, dairy, and eggs for his sensitive little body, which has been a pretty challenging life change at times. I basically eat chicken for four of my 6-8 little meals a day (I’ve long been a frequent eater!). But, it has made me eat a lot more whole foods and I discovered Vega. I. Love. Vega.
– I read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up and got rid of 1/3 of our stuff and most of the clothes in my closet!
– I prayed and prayed about what to do with Grace’s preschool this year. We didn’t have a great experience last year, so it was a risk to keep going and try a new class and new teachers. I prayed for months and God gave me His answer at the very last minute, two weeks before school started. And Gracie loves her new class AND we looooooove her new teachers. They are stellar! Yay God and yay for preschool!
– We celebrated a wonderful issue launch, new product launch, and a powerful MTH all in the span of two weeks.
– I’m excited to share this one. After almost a year of praying and 500+ resumes and leaps of faith and endless hours of conversation as a team, we invited two lovely women to join our team last week, and they have accepted! More to come on these dynamic women (two familiar faces to some of you!) and this whole process in the weeks to come. I’m bursting at the seams with praise for God! It is a pretty crazy and unmistakably God story how this all happened!
– Letting friends into our home and hearts worked. Last night we had our friends Jonathan and Talia over for my birthday. We talked about our kids and marriages and how we can all be better in the new year. It was so life-giving. I am grateful for new friends and vulnerable conversation. Thank you, Lord!

Good things ahead (bonus if you want to include this!):
– After writing this series to you, I’m literally shutting off my email for two months to write book 2. I’m excited and know these two months will be worth it!
– Our new team coming together after this year of prayer and waiting on His perfect plan to unfold. The good we will be able to do for others (like you!) excites me.
– Our adoption. I anticipate some of you will have questions about how you can help us. Pray! We ask that instead of any physical gifts that you pray for us and encourage us in the Word. That is the best gift we could get. Specifically, the prayers I listed in the beginning of this post, and pray for my intense time of writing ahead. My deadline for my manuscript is March 1, but we may have a new baby before then, so I have a lot ahead of me. Pray that my inbox stays empty and my heart stays full of Him as I write. I will have to ignore most text messages too and that will be hard for me as I love connecting with others. Please pray for my focus. Pray for Ari and Grace as we all prepare our hearts and our home for this little girl. Pray that each step would glorify Him. Thank you for these gifts!
– Ari and I will celebrate 10 years of marriage shortly after welcoming this little girl into our lives. We had planned to have a big celebration, but we are putting it on hold now. We will likely have a newborn!
– This year ahead, I’ll be releasing my second book, couples PowerSheets (yay!), and praying about homeschooling Grace for kindergarten in 2017.
– And God could change ALL of this! But, as I’ve learned, His plans are always better than mine!

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I’ll be sharing more on Periscope today!

Once you have your list of what worked, name three lessons you learned from what worked. For example, in my life there were many times last year that great things happened when I let go of control—whether getting on my knees (literally) to surrender in prayer to God, letting someone else lead, or letting myself make a mess. The lesson for me was a big one: let go. Surrender. Humble yourself. That’s where change begins.

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Your turn! Write your own list of good things. What are you most grateful for from 2015? Write it in your PowerSheets if you have reached that section, or write it in a journal. Either way, I encourage you to share some of your 2015 gratitude in the comments to encourage others! And remember this: There is no room for comparison in making what matters happen. Whether you had one good thing happen or twenty, celebrate the good stuff and let’s help each other do the same. Let’s turn comparison into compassion and cheering on : )

OK, that’s it for today and that’s plenty to work on. I’ll be back Wednesday with more! Take your time with this and remember PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION. This is not about writing the perfect list with a perfect pen. It’s just about honesty about where you are so you can get to what’s next. This is a process that will have a big payoff, but you have to commit to working through it. Be still and let your 2016 goals bake, like a pan of homemade hot cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. They wouldn’t be so flaky and yummy zapped quickly in the microwave, would they? They’d end up a big pile of mushy dough. I’m not going to hand you your 2016 goals; we’re going to do this right and bake them well together. Sound good? Awesome! Get to it!

Need an extra kick in the pants? How about this for motivation? Welcome to the Ultimate New Year’s Giveaway! There are lots of prizes and fun ways to enter. Most of all, though, I hope you comment with your answers from each step as we go through this series. I can’t wait to read your answers, and share mine with you too! One person who comments with answers to every step in this series will win a bonus prize: A (spiral bound) One-Year PowerSheets Workbook. Yep! I have two left in the office, and one of you is getting one! I’m determined to motive you to dig in with me on these powerful steps : )

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1. A set of 2016 PowerSheets with a Make It Happen binder and colorful tab stickers
2. Five prints of your choice from the Lara Casey Shop
3. The Finishing School by Valerie Metrejean
4. The Make it Happen audio book, recorded by yours truly!
5. A Journaling Bible (NIV)
6. Five Make it Happen journals
7. Artist’s Loft Fundamentals Watercolor Set
8. Two tubs of Vega Protein and Greens + a Vega shaker cup. Bonus: sign up for a free Vega account to get $15, and I’ll get $15 too!
9. Ashley Brooke Too Legit water bottle
10. ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?! 10 2016 Simplified Planners (pineapple daily edition). Yes, TEN of them! Lots of chances to win!
11. What good shall I do this day? sign from Best Made Co
12. Five Make it Happen books
13. Jonathan Adler Grapefruit Candlelara-casey-new-year-fresh-faith-giveaway

 

– (Not pictured, but so fun!) $25 Amazon gift card for books. Some suggestions: AnythingRestlessThe Best YesA Confident HeartThe Fringe Hours, or anything on Nancy Ray’s Book Club list.

14. The Write the Word journal collection – volume 1, 2, and 3!
15. Val Marie Paper Prayer Journal
16. Naptime Diaries print of your choice
17. In the Wait study by Holly Holt
18. Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin
19. How to Study Scripture E-Book by Jane Johnson
20. Make it Count 2016 Bible journaling kit from Illustrated Faith

Why am I doing this? I know God put me here on this earth for many reasons, and He has made it clear that one of those reasons it to motivate people to take action on what matters most. I want you — yes YOU — to make what matters happen in your life. So, help me spread the word and let’s get all our friends in on this for accountability! Making things happen is always better when shared. Here’s to a meaningful, purpose-filled 2016 — I am cheering you on friends!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

There are 41 prizes, which means 41 chances to win! Your odds are good : ) Giveaway ends January 13th. Winners will be announced on January 15th here on the blog. Shipping some of these items can get costly, so hard goods are for US entrants only. Lots of digital prize options though for my international friends! If you don’t claim your prize within 48 hours, another winner will be selected, so mark your planners and stay posted! : ) Also, this post contains some Amazon affiliates links. No extra cost to you, but it helps us raise funds for Love One Another Project!

Ready for the next post? Go to Part 2 here.

keep reading

946 Comments

  1. Brooke Johnson on December 28, 2015 at 2:30 pm

    This is amazing! 🙂

  2. Rachel on December 28, 2015 at 2:30 pm

    I can’t wait to follow along on this series! 2016 is going to be such an amazing year!

  3. Beth Hardinger on December 28, 2015 at 2:34 pm

    I am working through these now! I’m excited for the new year!

  4. Aubrey Miller on December 28, 2015 at 2:35 pm

    So amazed by this process. These sheets are the best way to start making 2016 a great year!

  5. Emma Kate Watson on December 28, 2015 at 2:35 pm

    Love Lara Casey and all her intentional encouragement!

  6. Christine on December 28, 2015 at 2:36 pm

    I am ready to let go and accept my imperfections. I want to live and enjoy every moment for what it is.

  7. Hilary on December 28, 2015 at 2:36 pm

    Thank you, Lara, for all of your encouragement through this process! This is my first year doing Powersheets and you have been so helpful! I can’t wait to see what else you will do in this series! Also, I will pray for you throughout your adoption! That is so exciting! 🙂

  8. Maria on December 28, 2015 at 2:38 pm

    Thank you for sharing your exciting news & encouraging words. Excited to Make Things Happen in 2016!

  9. Donna on December 28, 2015 at 2:40 pm

    This sounds like just what this senior lady needs!

  10. Jennifer Lee on December 28, 2015 at 2:40 pm

    Happy New Year Lara! Can’t wait to dive into my powersheets. My word for this year is PEACE. 2015 was a tumultuous year for our family. This year, PEACE – in everythign I do, every decision I make…I choose PEACE. I can’t wait to read your adoption story. You are all in my prayers.

  11. Leslie on December 28, 2015 at 2:41 pm

    I have jumped into my Poersheets and loving them so far. This year is going to be amazing!

  12. Jessie on December 28, 2015 at 2:42 pm

    I am so happy I attended MTH this fall. I love your heart Lara!

  13. Haley on December 28, 2015 at 2:43 pm

    Love this, Lara! Always grateful for your words & encouragement.

  14. Samantha on December 28, 2015 at 2:44 pm

    I absolutely love this!!! I have been diving into the book and the powersheets pretty intensely the past couple days and I can’t wait for 2016 to be my year!

  15. Ann on December 28, 2015 at 2:45 pm

    What a great opportunity! The new year is such a great time to get intentional!

  16. Meghann RIchardson on December 28, 2015 at 2:45 pm

    GRACE not PERFECTION. I cannot wait for 2016. While changes in my life have been slowly happening, a new year always brings this sense of revitalization. Happy New Year to you and your family, Laura!

  17. Lisa on December 28, 2015 at 2:46 pm

    I’m so happy that a good friend told me about you, your book, and PowerSheets . I know 2016 is going to be amazing!

  18. Megan on December 28, 2015 at 2:46 pm

    2016 is going to be a FULL year! I would love to try powersheets for the first time!

  19. Rachel on December 28, 2015 at 2:46 pm

    I cannot wait to begin with these, 2016 is going to be an amazing year !

  20. Jessica on December 28, 2015 at 2:46 pm

    So fun….extra motivation for goal setting with power sheets!

  21. Kerri on December 28, 2015 at 2:47 pm

    Feeling down over infertility issues. So needed to see this post to help try to give me some needed motivation. Here’s to 2016.

  22. Anna on December 28, 2015 at 2:48 pm

    Excited to start 2016 with a fresh start!! thank you for this series!

  23. Kristen Corpolongo on December 28, 2015 at 2:48 pm

    Congratulations on your adoption, Lara! Thanks for posting all of these 2016 goal setting goodies and inspiration. Good luck with writing the new book!

  24. Katie R. on December 28, 2015 at 2:49 pm

    Love this Lara! Thank you for being so transparent and encouraging us to be intentional about looking back and looking forward and digging in deep for 2016!

  25. Heather on December 28, 2015 at 2:50 pm

    What an amazing set a gifts!! Happy New Years to you, your family and friends!

  26. Sandra on December 28, 2015 at 2:51 pm

    Congratulations on your new addition to your family. 2015 was a rough year. Looking forward to 2016.

  27. Caitlyn on December 28, 2015 at 2:52 pm

    So thrilled to be here and be part of this incredible journey!

  28. Dawn Jones on December 28, 2015 at 2:52 pm

    I can’t wait to kick off 2016 on the right foot! Thank you for the giveaway opportunity!

  29. Charmaine on December 28, 2015 at 2:53 pm

    Thank you, Lara, for all your positive encouragement and your willingness to help others live their best life. I’m excited to follow the series and can’t wait to use my Powersheets! God bless you and your family.

  30. Cheryl majcen on December 28, 2015 at 2:53 pm

    Thank you so much for taking the time to help us with making 2016 the best year ever!!! I really look forward to this series and truly making a difference in my life!!

  31. Heidi on December 28, 2015 at 2:54 pm

    I look forward to this series every year! Thank you for doing it!

  32. Myra - The Marvelous Mess on December 28, 2015 at 2:54 pm

    Thank you so much for this series! I’ve been trying for so long to find something that works for me, in terms of goal planning, and I stumbled across Lara Casey by sheer accident. However, I choose to believe there are no accidents in life and I was supposed to find this site, the series, the Powersheets, and the book. Faith, my relationships, work, play, and finances are all going to be factored into my goal planning this year. First stop? To leave perfection at the doorstep and not allow its negative aspects into my life. Thank you again for this opportunity and many prayers for your 2016 journey!

  33. Jaime Nash on December 28, 2015 at 2:55 pm

    I always enjoy your goal-setting series, Lara!!

  34. Lyn on December 28, 2015 at 2:55 pm

    So encouraging! Makes me happy happy for a New Year! : )

  35. Deborah on December 28, 2015 at 2:55 pm

    What a bunch of fun prizes! I’m looking forward to 2016 and seeing what God has in store.

  36. kristina on December 28, 2015 at 2:56 pm

    Such an inspiring post! I’m looking forward to intentional goal setting this year.

  37. kirsten on December 28, 2015 at 2:57 pm

    New to your site via someone I follow on Instagram. Thrilled to have discovered you! My 2016 word is nourish. What better way to nourish than by starting the new year reading your book & using the power sheets? Thank you!

  38. Desiree on December 28, 2015 at 2:59 pm

    Loving the power sheets ! Happy New Years !!

  39. Grace on December 28, 2015 at 2:59 pm

    I’ve been waiting for this post!!! Totally pumped to see the rest of the series. Thanks for being so motivating, Lara!

  40. Jen Kartes on December 28, 2015 at 2:59 pm

    This is the year for me – I am so excited to start out 2016 on the right foot!!!

  41. Angela G. on December 28, 2015 at 3:00 pm

    I’m still in the prep process of my PowerSheets but this series is amazing. Thank you 🙂

  42. Kathleen Harvey on December 28, 2015 at 3:00 pm

    <3 excited for your life changes Lara!

  43. Brittany on December 28, 2015 at 3:01 pm

    I love this!! 🙂 I love these powersheets so much! It’s my goal to save to get them!

  44. Danette on December 28, 2015 at 3:01 pm

    Very awesome giveaways to help boost 2016!! #Inspire

  45. Mary Beth on December 28, 2015 at 3:01 pm

    Lara, your words have been such a source of inspiration for me this year. Fruitful Summer changed how I approach my friendships, and I cannot wait to read the Make It Happen book I got for Christmas. Best of luck to you in 2016!

  46. Jennifer kindle on December 28, 2015 at 3:04 pm

    So fun. Excited about 2016

  47. Kristyn Hogan on December 28, 2015 at 3:04 pm

    I got my sister PowerSheets for her Christmas gift. They were definitely a hit 🙂

  48. Laura Ann on December 28, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    I just discovered your Powersheets – a little too late as they were already sold out in your store! I would love a set for 2016.

    I hope you and yours have a Happy and Peaceful New Year!

  49. Becca on December 28, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    Thank you for the encouragement to look back on 2015. Sometimes I feel like a lot of things didn’t work this year, and I’m excited to see how God will use that to grow something new in 2016.

  50. Shannon on December 28, 2015 at 3:09 pm

    This is BEYOND encouraging. What an exciting way to begin a new year by review the previous. I am so encouraged by your write in the word journal that I got for Christmas. What a blessing you are! Excited for this series and for the giveaway!

  51. Jodi on December 28, 2015 at 3:09 pm

    Our pastor’s Christmas sermon was about Jesus coming to earth to get messy, and then I found your blog! I think God wants my 2016 to be messy!

  52. Sarah Alves on December 28, 2015 at 3:10 pm

    LARA! So many AMAZING things in this post. I could comment on every single one, but instead I will focus on my top two:

    – Saying no to TLC: I commend you on making this choice! Not because I dislike TLC (I like this channel very much), but I think it’s awesome you declined this opportunity to stay true to the business you have built. I am sure this was not an easy decision and y’all talked about it extensively. Bravo!

    – Couples PowerSheets! OMG. Literally just texted my husband about this and we are SO FREAKING excited! He loved watching me go through the PowerSheets this year… I know that we’ll have so much fun doing this in 2016!

    One more thing! As y’all develop new PowerSheets in the future, I think it’d be a great idea to somehow make the Tending List removable from the bound version. Maybe perforated card stock? Just a thought!

    Thank you for EVERYTHING that you do for this community. We love you for it.

  53. Kasi Guess on December 28, 2015 at 3:12 pm

    WOW What an awesome giveaway! Any of the items would be so beneficial!!! Looking forward to this New Year!

  54. BethAnn on December 28, 2015 at 3:13 pm

    Hey Lara, I’m super excited to be kicking off 2016 with my MTH powersheets, with a whole lot of realistic progress not perfect goals! Thanks for your encouragement and the MTH program. I can’t wait to see all the Lord is going to do through my MTH goals for the ministry of She Believes this year! Love it!! xoxo BethAnn

  55. Kylie on December 28, 2015 at 3:14 pm

    You have shaped the way I live my life and allowed me to chase grace, you’re almost like my internet mama. I’m so humbled every time I read your posts, your book, the power sheets, etc. I know that life is messy, and difficult, and sometimes downright frustrating, but with these tools I can live with purpose.

  56. Katie @ A Place to Dwell on December 28, 2015 at 3:14 pm

    Oh, Lara,
    I love this post. Especially the encouragement to be fully present where you are!

    The thing I have been chasing most is a relationship. That’s hard to write and admit sometimes, but it’s true. I am 32 and single and have prayed and prayed for a Godly relationship that would lead to a Godly marriage. But for His own reasons and purposes, God has chosen for me to remain in singleness.

    One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this year is that there is power in TRYING LESS and TRUSTING MORE.

    I cannot change my singleness (at least not if I want God’s best for me), and when I try to control things in my life — especially that — I find that I feel both discouraged and discontent. I want to chase after HIM instead, choosing Him above all other things and accepting His gifts to me with gratitude and great joy — even this season of singleness. 🙂

    As I get quiet and do my reflecting on 2015, I find that my life needs a bit of pruning and weeding — getting rid of distractions, clutter, doubt, etc. to make space and room for fresh nutrients, inspiration, direction, and HOPE!:)

    And here are a few of the things I’m celebrating and giving thanks for about 2015:

    *Community: God continues to bless me with wonderful community — both online and off — and I’m continually amazed and inspired by that.
    *Time with family: I’ve had some very sweet time with my family this year, in the midst of losing my grandma, and I am so thankful for the support we’ve offered one another and the memories we’ve made.
    *I taught my first Influence Network class! I was SO NERVOUS and uncertain, but I saw God work in spite of that, and I am so thankful.
    *I took a random vacation day in November to spend with my mom and take advantage of our gorgeous fall weather, and that was SUCH a good day. I want to do more of those spontaneous adventures in the new year.
    *I jumped into the world of copywriting this year, collaborating with my friend Kelsey of Pinegate Road on the That’s Darlin’ website. I loved getting to help Malissa tell the story of her business and showcase her heart and passion behind it.

    I’ll be blogging about all of this in more detail, but I love jumping into the community here and sharing some of the highlights. Can’t wait to read what others are celebrating! This community is so incredible! 🙂

    • CJ on December 28, 2015 at 11:20 pm

      Katie thank you for being honest about this. I’m 35 and you summed up perfectly the raw hope that is both joy and pain for those of us who wait for God to write a story of two for us. Seeing God’s gifts to me as a single woman has been a huge lesson for me in the past five years – wish I would have started looking sooner. 🙂 And even though I am more willing to see them now, sometimes I still get a little panicked by how much that longing still aches. I was so encouraged today by your declaration to continue to seek God’s heart as you try less and trust more. Hope in His greatness dear unknown friend – He is bigger than any of us can fathom. 🙂

    • Katie @ A Place to Dwell on December 29, 2015 at 2:26 pm

      Hi, CJ! Thank you so much for this sweet, encouraging comment!
      I completely understand the feelings of panic. As Proverbs says, “hope deferred makes the heart sick.” And I’ve definitely found that to be true at times in my waiting. I hope you continue to see and celebrate God’s amazing gifts to you, and I’m thankful we connected here and could encourage one another in our seasons. He IS bigger than we can fathom, and He can do so much more than we could ever imagine! I hope we both continue to hope and believe that with all of our hearts and that we keep chasing after Him! 🙂

    • Tiffany on December 30, 2015 at 12:50 am

      Hi Katie, thank you for sharing your heart on singleness! I’m in the same place at 36 and I know it might sound strange, but it is nice to know that we are not alone in this season. Blessing to you!

    • Katie @ A Place to Dwell on December 30, 2015 at 2:41 pm

      Hi, Tiffany! I’m grateful to connect with some other single gals here! It is definitely a comfort and encouragement to connect with others who understand the ups and downs of singleness in your 30s! I will pray for you today! 🙂

  57. Nubia on December 28, 2015 at 3:15 pm

    I’ve always been a planner but never really focused or committed to some personal items – it’s mostly been work focused which has helped achieved a happy place professionally. It’s time to focus and commit on those things I do (or need to do) to fuel my happiness.

  58. Lee on December 28, 2015 at 3:18 pm

    Grateful for God continually reminding me that He loves me and I can’t but He will!

  59. Nealy on December 28, 2015 at 3:21 pm

    Lara, thank you so much for your inspiration! I bought your 2015 Powersheets and, because of having a newborn (#4) last year, I just didn’t feel up to starting them. So I am starting my 2015 power sheets in 2016. Thank you for being such an inspiration!

  60. Stefanie S. on December 28, 2015 at 3:22 pm

    So many amazing things happening here! Looking forward to making things happen in 2016!

  61. Chelsea Rossan on December 28, 2015 at 3:23 pm

    I can’t wait to try your powersheets and book! Thank you so much for the opportunity!

  62. Monica on December 28, 2015 at 3:23 pm

    My goal for 2016 is to get things *done* – cross them off the life list to make room for other stuff!

  63. Ann on December 28, 2015 at 3:24 pm

    So excited I found your blog! Ready to get on track for 2016!

  64. Gretchen on December 28, 2015 at 3:26 pm

    This looks amazing!! Looking forward to this series this year. Thank you Lara!

  65. Theresa on December 28, 2015 at 3:27 pm

    How fun! Thank you for being such a strong woman of faith.

  66. Laila on December 28, 2015 at 3:28 pm

    I was just talking with a friend about how I wasn’t sure where to focus for 2016. I finally landed on making self-care a priority. As a single mom and full-time graduate student I have been feeling so overwhelmed lately. I have to slow down and take care of myself or nothing else matters. Here’s a great 2016!

  67. Danielle on December 28, 2015 at 3:31 pm

    I am new to your blog and a newbie to goal setting. Working on mine now. I can’t wait to see what 2016 will bring!!!!!!

  68. Julie on December 28, 2015 at 3:34 pm

    LOVING going through my powersheets! This goal-setting series is helping me focus even more! Thanks for sharing and all you do!

  69. Heather on December 28, 2015 at 3:34 pm

    Sent a message to my sister in law who just gave birth to my nephew last week. Sending her love today as she is home resting!

  70. Kimberly Davis on December 28, 2015 at 3:36 pm

    Thank you for using your God given gifts to inspire others! Happy New Year and looking forward to 2016!

  71. Kelly on December 28, 2015 at 3:36 pm

    Lara, love all of this and how “intentional” you always are. Congratulations on the additions to your family. A baby changes everything;).

  72. Brooke Matson on December 28, 2015 at 3:36 pm

    Lara! I miss you! I’m so encouraged by this post and so thrilled for your adoption news. Thank you for your very tangible prayer requests; I WILL be praying, I promise! Even if you don’t hear from me via email or text. : )

    It took me a while, but I realized that I’ve been chasing validation this year – validation from mentors, from peers, etc. Yuck! I’m mid-PowerSheets but just figured this out reading your post – thank you!

    Miss you, and looking forward to the rest of the series!

  73. Lauren DeVries on December 28, 2015 at 3:37 pm

    I’ve been working through my Power Sheets and thinking about this year!
    1) Realizing I’ve been chasing perfection at home that just sends me in a tizzy when it’s not achieved (ie. kids trash the house, mama has a cow.) Also, comparison has caused me to chase what so many others are doing rather than focusing on my own journey. I get so stuck when I compare!!

    2) Ach – so much clutter! I’m feeling really squeezed in my all the extra stuff around the house… At the same time I don’t want to freak out, but do something about it! About 2015 – I’m feeling like it went by so so quickly and a bit like I failed (to be honest!!) I know it wasn’t a wasted year, but I really have to dig… Financially and physically feeling worried, but hopeful as my husband and I are going to sit down to talk about these things. I feel energy in the physical side of things – I need to make some changes, and I’m finally feeling the kick in the pants to do it! I guess – overall I feel like a mess! How’s that for honesty on the internet!? 🙂 But a hopeful mess at the same time… Most looking forward to IF: Traverse City (I am planning the first city-wide IF: Gathering for our city!!) and the follow-up Bible study.

    3) Some things that worked in 2015:
    – IF: Traverse City at our church – started the long healing process after miscarrying a second time.
    – So much growth in our women’s ministry at our church!
    – Realized in the second half of the year that I needed to eliminate some goals in order to be successful at any 🙂
    – Read some life-changing books (Breathing Room, Every Body Matters, Audacious) and Bible studies (Children of the Day, She Reads Truth)
    – Took writing more seriously and wrote some very meaningful posts

    Well, that’s a start at least!! Thanks so much for this exercise – I’ll continue through my sheets! I love the idea of a celebration dinner – definitely doing that! Also planning on doing it with my IF: planning team 🙂

    Much love to you and your family, Lara! Thank you for all your work and leadership!

  74. Whitney on December 28, 2015 at 3:38 pm

    My goal for 2016 is clarity–on my purpose, on what makes me happy, and on how to move forward.

  75. Beth on December 28, 2015 at 3:39 pm

    I am so grateful that your business is so God-focused. You and your team are such an inspiration in being real, transparent, honest. Praying His many blessings on your family, friendships, and business. Thank you for encouraging me in ways only God knows and being a light to us all.

  76. Stacey McPeake on December 28, 2015 at 3:40 pm

    I can’t wait to get my Powersheets in the mail! I am very excited to get started and see all the changes in 2016!

  77. Kate on December 28, 2015 at 3:43 pm

    Great writing and encouragement! Looking forward to the rest of the series!

  78. Cheryl on December 28, 2015 at 3:45 pm

    One goal that I have for myself for 2016 is to read a book every month. “Make It Happen” is my fist book for this year and it’s not because I received your message. It’s because it’s time!!!!!!!!!

  79. Mandy Chase on December 28, 2015 at 3:46 pm

    Looking forward to receiving my Powersheets! Loved your blog!

  80. Celena on December 28, 2015 at 3:48 pm

    What an amazing giveaway! I’m so glad I found you on Instagram a while back. I just love everything you do and share. You guys being a smile to my face!

  81. Janet O'Neil on December 28, 2015 at 3:49 pm

    I loved your book Make it Happen and the Power Sheets which put me on track last year. I am most grateful for my new granddaughter who will be born in late January!

  82. Heather M on December 28, 2015 at 3:49 pm

    You are such a great encourager. Am thankful for women like you and many others who are willing to be an open book for what they are not only good at, but the times of struggle, too.
    Things that worked in 2015…choosing to find joy instead of focusing on the things not going the way I anticipated. Planning to continue choosing joy and looking forward to applying grace to the mix now. Grace is such a rough, hard thing for me…

  83. Lynn Aronson on December 28, 2015 at 3:50 pm

    Due to personal illnesses and a multitude of crises in my life in the last 7 years , I feel like I just keep getting further and further behind! I need organization in my life more than anything and find it harder and harder to get motivated. I am a strong believer in the Lord, but I could use a daily push of inspiration. Thank you. God bless

    • dawn on January 2, 2016 at 5:51 pm

      dear lynn, i feel in a similar place … the last 6 years have been quite hard and each year i say ‘this will be the year it eases up’ and i am hoping for that in 2016 … sometimes there is just a very long season of difficulty and as a believer we rest on God but we don’t really understand … i too am committed to clearing thru the clutter … dropping all the dead weight this life dumps on top of us … hang in there … a day at a time … sometimes a moment at a time … my thoughts are with you … dawn

  84. Celena on December 28, 2015 at 3:50 pm

    *bring

  85. Peggy Garcia on December 28, 2015 at 3:50 pm

    Grace and encouragement. It’s a fine line I hope to balance, for myself and to share with others.

  86. Angela on December 28, 2015 at 3:51 pm

    So excited to start using my Power Sheets and being more mindful this year.

  87. Ashlyn Carter on December 28, 2015 at 3:51 pm

    Ah! My friend recommended Holly’s book this morning and I am ordering it today! Advent … may you let it ever be on my lips to wait well, Lord.

  88. Kelly on December 28, 2015 at 3:55 pm

    Oh boy this year I chased control, and it made me so full of worry. I was always anxious the most horrible thing would happen, but it never did. And ya know what, when something did put go my way, I was capable of handling it. God is so good. And this year, my word is graciousness. I want to be filled more with the Holy Spirit and His fruits. I’m excited about using my Powersheets again this year as last year they pulled me out of the muck. Thank you Lara for creating. I’ll be praying for your adoption!

  89. Sonja on December 28, 2015 at 3:55 pm

    Lara I love you and your Powersheets have changed how I plan my day, my week & my year! I can’t wait to Make 2016 Happen!

  90. Susan on December 28, 2015 at 3:55 pm

    Looking forward to a great new year!

  91. Amy Goloby on December 28, 2015 at 3:55 pm

    This past year I’ve been chasing a dead-end relationship, approval, and success. I’ve decided to move on from my relationship to make room for what God has for me and to focus more on building healthy community and focusing on what matters.

  92. Katrina on December 28, 2015 at 4:00 pm

    Ordered Make it Happen last night! I’ve been overwhelmed with where to start bc of perfectionism! Time to get messy!!

  93. Hannah Crain on December 28, 2015 at 4:01 pm

    Good things in 2015: Simplicity, Cozy Minimalist Class with the Nester, learning and about prayer and Sabbath rest, investing in college students and women at my church, helping others grow in Christ, taking a fun five year anniversary trip to St. Croix with my awesome husband, learning more about myself and leading and stepping into obedience, saying YES to God and His plans, figuring out my current gifting to gather people, talk about Jesus and everyday life (help understanding from Restless study/talks with my husband/prayer), focus on progress not perfection! Thanks for sharing your life with us Lara!

  94. Erin S on December 28, 2015 at 4:06 pm

    Yay! I love this time of year. The possibilities for 2016 are so exciting!

  95. LaCourdia Jones on December 28, 2015 at 4:08 pm

    Such an awe-inspiring and motivating blog I have read all year. Too have read the highs of your 2015 is for overwhelming of how God saw you through such busyness. The first tip I gathered from all of this was because you surrendered and let go and you allowed God to take it is how you were able to do the impossible. I read how you wanted to be in control and except you let go and let God, these amazing blessings wouldn’t have been possible. You are right there is no such fulfillment in being perfect but to do purpose. That is my desire to do purpose and not comparison.

  96. Chelsea Moore on December 28, 2015 at 4:08 pm

    This post was amazing Lara – Thank you! I’ve never in all my 24 years done any official goal setting at the end of the new year. To be quite honest, I don’t even recall specific resolutions I’ve haphazardly set. But this year that is changing, and I’ve been reading and reading and researching and trying to figure out what the best way for me to set goals is. I’m loving your comments about the year of messy – that so completely resonates with me! Also in the process of reading Essentialism, and I think 2016 is the year of figuring out how to be an essentialist. Will update once I work through these tips – thank you, Lara!

  97. Krystal on December 28, 2015 at 4:10 pm

    This will be my first year using Power Sheets and I am so excited for the process! I read your book in just one day, I couldn’t put it down!

  98. Kylie on December 28, 2015 at 4:11 pm

    Love it!!!

  99. Christine Raggi on December 28, 2015 at 4:14 pm

    Why am I doing this? Sometimes I have NO idea! I have been an ER nurse for 10 years and I recently completely my Masters to practice as family practice nurse practitioner. I am starting new again, as this role is different from nursing. My husband is in the Navy on a submarine and we just moved here and I don’t have any close friends. I am using my powersheets and going to church and doing my best, but sometimes it is difficult and sad. I want to study more in the world to help make myself a stronger and more independent woman. I was to grow in a strong provider where my patients (uninsured and underinsured) can count on me, and I would like to begin journaling to notice trends and therefore which can help guide me in my powersheets. Thank you Lara Casey & team for these powersheets and TRULY wonderful giveaway!

  100. Maryann M on December 28, 2015 at 4:15 pm

    This is an incredible post! So much to “digest” and think about…I’m starting the book on audio. Choosing Joy is my goal this year!

  101. Courtney West on December 28, 2015 at 4:16 pm

    I have BIG goals for 2016 and could really use something to keep me organized and on track. 🙂

  102. Heather on December 28, 2015 at 4:18 pm

    I just sat down last night and focused on the hardwork of prepping my PowerSheets for 2016. And I was so fired up, I couldn’t get to sleep till 2am thinking of everything God has placed on my heart! My word for 2016 is FULFILL, as I will be fulfilling God’s command in what I do, and that what I do will be fulfilling to others as God works through me. I am so grateful for His work in you, Lara, and the bravery and trust you’ve exhibited by stepping out into the unknown so many times, fully relying on Him to catch and lead you. Keep your eyes on Him, sister! “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

  103. Crystal Parks on December 28, 2015 at 4:19 pm

    Love this! Thanks for the info and encouragement!

  104. Lindsay on December 28, 2015 at 4:22 pm

    I am so ready to push myself to declutter, accept people more, give more, buy less, and dream more in 2016

  105. Abby on December 28, 2015 at 4:22 pm

    What a wonderful way to bless others! As I step out in faith into my entrepreneurial journey, I find it so encouraging to see sisters in Christ walking alongside. All these resources sound so amazing! I’d love to be able to implement one into my 2016. Blessings!

  106. Arleyne Espinel on December 28, 2015 at 4:23 pm

    so excited!

  107. Arleyne Espinel on December 28, 2015 at 4:23 pm

    so excited! :))

  108. Robyn on December 28, 2015 at 4:23 pm

    I’m so grateful for these words and entering a new year filled with grace and not perfection in my goal setting. I feel a heavy burden lifting off my shoulders and embracing the things that mean the most and that I’ve always wanted. My focus is my legacy. What do I want others to see in me, what do I want to leave behind, how will I impact my little world for His Kingdom.? That is what worked for the last half of 2015. Chasing perfect and allowing comparison to lead my thoughts and goals was exhausting. I’m looking forward to digging into my Powersheets to prayerfully and graciously enter 2016.

  109. Rachel on December 28, 2015 at 4:24 pm

    Thanks so much for the Ultimate Giveaway Lara! You are such an inspiration. I can wait to begin 2016 to improve on my past 2015 year. I learned so much about myself and what I have to let go to move on…Can’t wait to get a chance at winning the giveaway for more motivation and help with this journey of mine. Thanks!!!

  110. Samiad on December 28, 2015 at 4:26 pm

    So awesome! I was so full of anxiousness and worry before reading this, but now I feel excited and relieved.

  111. Ree on December 28, 2015 at 4:26 pm

    Have just spent hours reading here, stumbled across your site at a time that my heart definitely needed some positivity. Thank you for sharing 🙂

  112. Lauren on December 28, 2015 at 4:27 pm

    I just read a sample of your book on Kindle. Still deciding whether to purchase the kindle version or hard copy but it looks like it will be a good read either way!

  113. Diane on December 28, 2015 at 4:29 pm

    For your open and honest words, perspective, encouragement and nudging thank you! Prayers to you and gratitude for sharing with us and living in your purpose. May Gods blessings pour out.

  114. India on December 28, 2015 at 4:30 pm

    I am so excited about this process. It has taken me some time to get to Step 6 in the Powersheets, but it has been a great journey so far. Completing the fears section was scary, but so eye-opening. Lara, thank you for sharing your journey with us!

    My greatest fear of all is trying new things and new roles professionally because I strive for perfection and am afraid that I will not be perfect in this new role and will be viewed as a failure or imposter. I know realize how this is holding me back and am ready to make this the year that I do not let this continue to hold me back.

    • Ashley Terry on December 28, 2015 at 7:16 pm

      India, I can so relate to this. I hope you can give yourself permission to not be perfect in this new role (because none of us are), but that you’ll use any mistakes or “failures” as opportunities to learn and be better going forward. Cheering for you!

  115. Karen Maddox on December 28, 2015 at 4:30 pm

    Thank you for the encouragement! I’m so excited for the New Year!

  116. Shauna on December 28, 2015 at 4:31 pm

    Thank you so much for all you do and the inspiration you provide for us. What a great giveaway!

  117. Katelyn on December 28, 2015 at 4:32 pm

    I look forward to your goal setting posts every year!! Such an encouraging way to look back on the past year and move forward into the New Year with ambition!

  118. Crystal Young on December 28, 2015 at 4:33 pm

    I am looking forward to this goal setting series! Thanks for sharing your knowledge. And what fun, a fantastic giveaway too!!!!!!!!!!!

  119. Rachael on December 28, 2015 at 4:33 pm

    Super excited to get started on my intentional goal-setting and using powersheets!

  120. Elaine on December 28, 2015 at 4:34 pm

    This is absolutely amazing and SO encouraging! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

  121. Lisa Dearen on December 28, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    Your power sheets inspired me last year to define a family intention and we’re carrying it over into 2016 – JOY!

  122. Leila on December 28, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    2016 is all about visualizing my goals and be successful. I spent time yesterday writing out goals and creating a “practice” schedule so that I can give my day some structure to succeed in all of my goals!

  123. TaWanna on December 28, 2015 at 4:42 pm

    This post was amazing!!! Thanks so much. I have a lot of work to do, but in the end it will be good. Lots of pruning and decluttering MUST happen and LESS worrying. More letting go and letting God take over. More time on my knees in prayer for directions and clarity in my life!

  124. Siri on December 28, 2015 at 4:46 pm

    As a step-mom to a college aged daughter who is struggling to find her way toward God, I cherish your thoughts and guidance! I wasn’t raised in the church so helping her is helping me discover and celebrate God’s love for us all. Thank you to everyone involved, both content creators and fellow readers, for being my community:)

  125. Bridget on December 28, 2015 at 4:46 pm

    Thank you for sharing your gift of encouragement with us. Recently read “Anything” by Jennie Allen, and really appreciate your encouragement to let go, trust God, and take a leap!

  126. DIANA GARCIA on December 28, 2015 at 4:47 pm

    This is truly remarkable, I do not personally know you however you are a great individual and help me daily. I am soo happy to see that you and Ari are together. God is good and god bless your family. I will continue to follow and looking forward to 2016 is a more positive way. Thank you for everything you do! Giveaway is a plus!

  127. Julie on December 28, 2015 at 4:48 pm

    What a wonderful collection of inspiration! Such a great way to welcome the new year!!

  128. Priscilla on December 28, 2015 at 4:51 pm

    I have been working on reading Make It Happen and journaling along with it! I am on the last section and I am going to try to finish it before the New Year so that I have all my goals in place! “Progress not perfection”!! I can’t wait to see what the Lord does in 2016.

  129. Jenna on December 28, 2015 at 4:52 pm

    2014 was a painful year of tearing all the old down, 2015 was setting a new foundation and 2016 is for building up! Ready to embrace what God has in store!

  130. Laura on December 28, 2015 at 4:58 pm

    Thank you for this amazing tool, I know it will make a significant impact on my life.

  131. Kady on December 28, 2015 at 5:08 pm

    What an encouraging blog post to read this morning! Yay God all around!

    How do we enter your giveaway? 🙂

    My goals, tentatively decided:
    – Finish completely reading the Bible. I’m 23% in!
    – Be involved in church. Be committed.
    – Make connections with local Christ centered women, nurture that “community” I’ve been aching for.
    – Lose 60 pounds.
    – Be intentional with blogging. Make it one of my priorities if writing + crafting is meant to be my calling in life.
    – Marry my best friend!

  132. Amanda on December 28, 2015 at 5:13 pm

    I have hope that 2016 is going to be a good year.

  133. Paige on December 28, 2015 at 5:18 pm

    I would absolutely love to win some of your awesome goal setting stuff!!

  134. Julie on December 28, 2015 at 5:26 pm

    Thank you for all the practical yet beautiful products to help us live life more intentionally!

  135. cindy borcherding on December 28, 2015 at 5:27 pm

    What am AMAZING giveaway!!! God bless you for sharing your talents with us!!

  136. Cara Shields on December 28, 2015 at 5:29 pm

    Thank you so much for always being encouraging while also being honest

  137. Evangeline on December 28, 2015 at 5:30 pm

    My intention is to live purposeful and focused in 2016

  138. Elif Ritchie on December 28, 2015 at 5:32 pm

    I am at such a crossroads right now. I just finalized my adoption (yay!) but am at a loss at how or where to move forward. Winning this would help so much to clarify my path. Thank you Lara!!!

  139. Elda on December 28, 2015 at 5:35 pm

    This year has been a year of miracles for me and my family…after being told last year my newborn would not live….yet our Lord had other plans as a family we prayed like never before and then we began to see miracles after miracles” now our baby boy is 15 months and doing great Praise God! I give thanks for physicians and nurses but God children wait on our Great Physician this test really shaped my faith and my families. May 2016 be everyone best!

  140. Kim S on December 28, 2015 at 5:35 pm

    Thank you so much for all the beautiful tools and your vulnerable heart. You are eigr where God called you to be. 🙂

  141. Hannah Leigh on December 28, 2015 at 5:37 pm

    Lara, this is AWESOME! I’ve been working on my power sheets since November and am so STOKED for digging in more through this blog series and for what the new year will bring! God did a major work in my life this past year and I sense Him calling me to a place of even deeper freedom in 2016! I can’t wait to see where He will lead and what He will do! Thankful to you and your team for all of the encouragement and inspiration! Let’s do this!

  142. Erin on December 28, 2015 at 5:38 pm

    Thanks for all the guidance to get this year off to a great start!

  143. Ashley Terry on December 28, 2015 at 5:39 pm

    Lara, I could not be more thrilled for you and your family! I’ve just fallen in love with your heart since first learning about you and following your adventures online. You’re a very special person, and I’m so grateful for the work you do and the courage you have to put it all out there. You’re such an inspiration to me! Wishing only the best things in life for you and your family in 2016.

  144. Elizabeth on December 28, 2015 at 5:40 pm

    I’ve so been looking forward to this! Stumbling across this series several years ago was the start of a wonderful new experience in goal-setting for me. This year, I’m using Power Sheets for the first time – they are one their way to me and I can’t wait for them to arrive!

  145. Janene on December 28, 2015 at 5:45 pm

    Thank you for how you have inspired me to live life with intention Lara! So blessed by you!

  146. Diane on December 28, 2015 at 5:46 pm

    Love this! Excited for 2016!!!

  147. Chanada Turner on December 28, 2015 at 5:57 pm

    I’m so excited to start this journey as I need some focus and guidance as I head into 2016. I can’t wait to take this journey! Thank you!

  148. Carrie on December 28, 2015 at 5:58 pm

    I am so pumped about this new year and doing it with PowerSheets! Thank you for helping me to live intentionally!

  149. Melissa on December 28, 2015 at 6:00 pm

    Wow! That’s a lot of prizes!! 🙂 I feel like God led me to you, your site and your Powersheets just in time as I’m wrestling with what I want to do/change/be in 2016. There’s so much good goal-setting/planner stuff out there, but much of it is without a faith basis and that is so important to me and obviously to you. CONGRATULATIONS on your adoption. I will be holding your family up in prayer.

  150. Katie H on December 28, 2015 at 6:03 pm

    So excited for this blog series. 2015 was probably my hardest year to date but what I’ve learned is that the moments with those you love are often far apart, so its best to soak in every second when you can. Hoping to use the Lara Casey products this year to help find a work/life balance. Family time > Professional Time for my 2016. Thanks for the encouragement this morning Lara! I am thankful for you.

  151. Heather P. on December 28, 2015 at 6:06 pm

    I can’t wait to get really into my Powersheets and really start my path back to God. It seems that I have slipped on my journey in life and never really committed to a life for Him when I should have. Thank you for all your inspiring words!

  152. Kirsten Butler on December 28, 2015 at 6:12 pm

    Thank you Lara! I have been slowly working through my power sheets since before Christmas! I shed many tears working through them! A lot of heart work was accomplished! I am to the setting goals section. I am so excited about this new year and the possibilities.

  153. Alexis on December 28, 2015 at 6:15 pm

    SO incredibly generous. The post alone is a gift!

  154. Irene on December 28, 2015 at 6:19 pm

    Lara, you are a gifted writer. I enjoyed reading Make It Happen and look forward to reading your next book. Thank you and your team for your work on the 2016 Powersheets. I purchased the spiral-bound version and love them–very inspiring!

  155. Heather Dow on December 28, 2015 at 6:21 pm

    I just received your Power Sheets and have dived into them. Finding them, your book, your blog, etc. has been a huge inspiration to me after having such a “down” 18 mos. Things can only go “UP” from here! Thank You!

  156. heidi pearson on December 28, 2015 at 6:24 pm

    I am sitting here with my PowerSheets open right now to the what worked last year and what didn’t work last year section. I like most people get stuck on the stuff that didn’t work….it is so easy to do that, we remember the bad, the horrible and the ugly….we ealisy forget the good and the awesome! Thank you for putting it in my face to think about the good as well as the bad….we need both to keep our lives in ballance

  157. Courtney S on December 28, 2015 at 6:25 pm

    I have just started using your powersheets for the first time. I couldn’t believe it – but, my eyes were opened to the fact that I have been a little depressed since 2012 – since May 10, 2012 to be exact. That was the day I was diagnosed with Stage IV incurable cancer. Praise God it is in remission and I pray it continues to stay in remission even though my doctor tells me it won’t. Plus, several other things happened after my diagnosis which have made life very hard. I realized that I have just been going through the motions and just trying o make it through the day. I am going to be more intentional in all aspects of my life for 2016. Thank you for opening my eyes and creating such a wonderful community!!!

  158. Paige on December 28, 2015 at 6:26 pm

    I have the powersheets and EL planner. I am so excited to have a messy beautiful year!!

  159. Kristin Korn on December 28, 2015 at 6:29 pm

    so happy I found you! Your stuff is exactly what I have been looking for – oh and LOVE your gold foil 🙂

  160. Ashley on December 28, 2015 at 6:33 pm

    So much goodness in this post. I’m journaling alongside reading, keeping a list of what I’ve been chasing, how I’m feeling (heart physically in overdrive, constantly wondering about the future), ideas that I want to implement this year (books to read, podcasts to listen to, experiences I want to have with my family, possibilities I want to research). One HUGE lesson for me – as an introvert, I HAVE to refill my tank, so I shouldn’t feel guilty for taking a few minutes to myself each day after a long day of teaching elementary school kids before I pick up my own toddlers from daycare. Looking forward to this series so much!! Thank you! ~Ashley

  161. Natalie on December 28, 2015 at 6:37 pm

    thank you for the motivation to focus on what is most important!

  162. Marta Goertzen on December 28, 2015 at 6:38 pm

    Thank you for sharing your heart and your process. It is so incredibly encouraging to hear about the imperfect journey of others, to know I am not alone. What a gift you have given all of us your readers. I’ve been praying for focus this year and greater purpose, learning to wait on His timing and not mine.

  163. Sara on December 28, 2015 at 6:43 pm

    so grateful to have found your website/blog this year and am well on my way with my 2016 Powersheets!

  164. Tiffany on December 28, 2015 at 6:43 pm

    I’m excited to work through my goals. Thanks for the encouragement!

  165. Danielle R on December 28, 2015 at 6:49 pm

    Lara, congratulations on your adoption! It’s so great seeing this finally happen!

    This is my second year using the powersheets and I really love them planting theme you have this year! Thank you for continuing to work hard to help others out. You are a blessing.

  166. Moira on December 28, 2015 at 6:54 pm

    I love the idea of starting thinking about my 2016 goals, by remembering the good of 2016. By biggest lessons of 2015 are:
    1. While traveling more for work then I ever have, I was reminded how much the experience of travel and new experiences enlivens me and inspire me to take bigger steps.
    2. This year I put myself out there by attending events and meet ups and connected with people that have warmed and inspired me.
    In 2016 I know I need to put myself out there around loving people who have similar goals and virtues and try new experiences that may seem scary . Ultimately, do more of what fills my heart and frightens me. I find God speaks through my heart and when I surrender, listen and follow, that is when the magic happens.

  167. Emily on December 28, 2015 at 7:04 pm

    So excited to have just found your website! Here’s to a great 2016, lived on purpose!

  168. Carrie Woods on December 28, 2015 at 7:05 pm

    This is amazing! I’m ready. 2016 is my year to thrive!

  169. Kailey Veenstra on December 28, 2015 at 7:07 pm

    After the most challenging had of my life, I am somewhat Surprise yet so grateful that overall, I am good grateful hopeful content and excited for what’s ahead. I’m okay sitting in the mess of what is currently unknown and in progress trusting God for his will and his timing and his ways that are always better than my own! Praise him.

  170. Jessica K on December 28, 2015 at 7:08 pm

    I am so excited to follow along with this goal setting series! I’m going to start by reviewing my 2015 what worked/didn’t work. Thank you, Lara, for always being so encouraging! Reading your year in review and goals always motivate me to make more meaningful and insightful goals.

  171. Kristen on December 28, 2015 at 7:10 pm

    From your webinar a couple weeks ago, to your blog and book, to the powesheets (that are on the way)…I am looking forward to using your tools to help make it happen in 2016! Thank you!

  172. Angela on December 28, 2015 at 7:17 pm

    I’ve always been so encouraged by your blog posts! I’m hoping to be able to win the power sheets so I can apply them to my 2016 year. Thank you!

  173. Brooke on December 28, 2015 at 7:19 pm

    Love these! Thank you for your encouragement!

  174. Patty on December 28, 2015 at 7:20 pm

    Wow Lara, what a generous giveaway!! I just love your product and am especially loving my power sheet workbook!

  175. Keisha on December 28, 2015 at 7:25 pm

    I am inspired. I am grateful. I am blessed to have read your blog today. From the first sentence, I immediately felt God directed me to read this. Your words spoke to me like you knew how I’ve been feeling, all the things I’ve been questioning. I too have struggled with perfection. I have believed that my worth is based on what I can do for those around me and if I did it well enough…only then would I be worthy. I’m still working to change my thoughts and working towards allowing vulnerability to at least sit beside me but I truly appreciate your words. They have power. (Tears) I’m ready to stop the chase, plant some new seeds and grow. Grow deeper in God and deeper in love with who God created me to be. God bless you and your family.

  176. Whitney on December 28, 2015 at 7:26 pm

    I’ll try and come back to answer the questions. I just wanted to encourage you.

    I attended the Influence Network’s Creative Women’s Summit in Charlotte. God spoke through you straight to my heart. He showed me that it is possible to live your dream and keep your family first. It isn’t easy, but it’s possible with Him. My heart connected with your words. I am so excited to attend the Making Things Happen Conference in the Spring. I can.not.wait.

  177. Em Enockson on December 28, 2015 at 7:27 pm

    Oh sweet friend! I’m so excited to hear your adoption story-you know that is something so close to my heart! YAY God!!

    What has been working in 2015:
    Expanding our serving at ZA to monthly free events, letting my team lead and grow, paying off debit, consistent time in the word, pouring into relationships with my cousins and being a LIGHT, working hard on my “job” and sharing the load/delegating, full-time with ZA/salary position, giving regularly to causes I care about, boundaries, being invested at Elmbrook confidence in my calling and most importantly savoring EVERY drop out of these single years.

    What has NOT been working: Analyze to paralysis, prayers too focused on ME, spending $$ to fill a desire only God can, COMPARISON, being discontent with the home I’ve been given, distractions during work hours, too much Instagram, doubt, fear, pride, clutter saying YES to much, placing my identity in titles not CHRIST

    Lessons Learned:
    -ZA: This is truly God’s ministry. He has called each person uniquely to bring their gifts and talents to serve! Growth happens in community. Communication with my mentor and team will cause the vision to flourish.

    -Spiritual: An abundant and joy-filled life begins right where you are. Focus on where God has you, Emily and savor this season. He has a plan for you-it is GOOD and it is for TODAY!

    -Personal: Small seeds were planted this year–focus on progress not perfection. Clear the clutter and intentionaly focus on what God’s called to you to accomplish today! Those distractions may seem harmless but they are taking up valuable brain space and margin. 2016 is a fresh start, give yourself grace and remember to focus on what matters in the eternal perspective!!

    • Katie @ A Place to Dwell on December 29, 2015 at 2:32 pm

      Emily! Love this! I’m glad I found your comment! 🙂 I I can relate to so many of these, friend. I want to really prioritize prayer in 2016 and one part of that is to focus many of those prayers on others. Not to say I won’t still continue to bring the Lord each of my hopes, concerns, etc., but that I will be very intentional about praying hard for other people in my life and doing so with the same fervor I do for some of my own needs/wants/worries! 🙂 And also that I will make time to be still and LISTEN. That I won’t just talk and talk at God, but that I will make room and space to hear from Him in return! 🙂
      And singleness…girl, you know I get you there. My phrase for that lately has been LESS TRYING, MORE TRUSTING. I am right with you in embracing it this next year and savoring every moment with continued hope for what God can still do in the future.

  178. Jennifer Profumo on December 28, 2015 at 7:28 pm

    I haven’t used your products yet, but they sound like just what I need for 2016! My friend, Robyn Schlichter, has been sharing about them on facebook, and I see what a difference it’s made in her life!

  179. Alexandra on December 28, 2015 at 7:29 pm

    What a lovely giveaway! I just finished with my goals for 2016 using the powersheets and I am SO FIRED UP about 2016.

  180. Elena on December 28, 2015 at 7:30 pm

    What a great giveaway to start the year fresh!

  181. julie on December 28, 2015 at 7:31 pm

    This is amazing! I will be following! I have been analizing 2015. Looking at what worked and what hasnt. I am ready for 2016 and make it happen!

  182. kim on December 28, 2015 at 7:33 pm

    Congratulations on the second book! And thank you for the freebie worksheet to help me start 2016 with a bang!

  183. Chrissy on December 28, 2015 at 7:41 pm

    Thank you so much for your beautiful post! We also have 3 littles (one on the way in February and twins that won’t be quite 2). I love being a busy mom, but know how hard it can be to be intentional. Best of luck on your adoption journey!

  184. Lisa on December 28, 2015 at 7:42 pm

    Lara, I am so inspired by you! I received my PowerSheets last week and am so excited to dive in this week! Best wishes on your adoption! Oh, and, that giveaway! How generous!

  185. Megan on December 28, 2015 at 7:49 pm

    I am so pumped! My power sheets are in the mail! I read Make it Happen last year and the past few days have been reading through all my goals and notes. God has been so good and blessed me beyond my dreams, but there is so much to clear out and look forward to in 2016! So encouraged by you, Lara!

  186. Claire Cook on December 28, 2015 at 7:53 pm

    This is an amazing giveaway and you are certainly a great motivator and inspire-er! 🙂 I always seem to get emotional when I read your stuff!

  187. Jeannette on December 28, 2015 at 7:59 pm

    Lara,
    I love the way you inspire people to create margin, to slow down and put whats most important first. I have done your power sheets and they’ve changed my heart for the better. They’ve empowered me to seek Gods kingdom first and to live life well. Thank you for everything that you do! You’re helping this 24 year old out!!

  188. Liz Johnson on December 28, 2015 at 7:59 pm

    Lara, thank you for all you do to inspire. I bought Power Sheets last year and did not use them to their potential. However, I have big plans for this year and I am so excited to go on this journey.

  189. Amanda on December 28, 2015 at 8:00 pm

    I just started to read your book as I look for God’s purpose for my life. I am excited to get “Messy” this year and work on being more imperfect because that is where I will find myself.

  190. sarah on December 28, 2015 at 8:05 pm

    I am so excited to start planning for 2016. It is one of my favorite things about starting a new year!

  191. Amanda on December 28, 2015 at 8:09 pm

    2015 I struggled with giving up control however I learned so much with the birth of our son. 2016 I am keeping it simple and focusing on less and living a more simple life. Love my powersheets!

  192. Rachel Green on December 28, 2015 at 8:13 pm

    So excited for you and all those good things! Love this and your encouraging words!

  193. Chante Perryman on December 28, 2015 at 8:16 pm

    I am excited about getting started on my PowerSheets and making 2016 great! Thank you for sharing your gift with the world!

  194. Tanya on December 28, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    Excited about 2016. Just got the Make It Happen book in time for this !

  195. Brooklyn Jolley on December 28, 2015 at 8:19 pm

    I am so excited for this series! My Powersheets have helped me IMMENSELY with my goal setting. I feel focused and excited not worn out/stressed out from goal setting. THANK YOU for following God’s calling for you to encourage and inspire Lara Casey!

  196. Laura on December 28, 2015 at 8:22 pm

    This gets me fired up about the new year. As a new Mom, I sometimes feel like I’m barely keeping my head above water. I’m tired of just surviving and want to live life again. Ready to set some goals and get started!

  197. Christy Mossburg on December 28, 2015 at 8:22 pm

    I’ve just discovered you over the last year and you’ve had a profound effect on my goal setting. Thank you for the valuable information that you so freely share with the world. God Bless!

  198. Jen on December 28, 2015 at 8:27 pm

    Wow! What a great and loving giveaway! I can hardly wait to get started. 2016 is going to be amazing!

  199. Laura on December 28, 2015 at 8:29 pm

    I just texted a friend who is 4 days overdue with her third child who is dealing with sickness and sick kids. I told her that I was praying for healing for everyone and that God would give her strength in preparation for the baby to come.

  200. Frances Raybon on December 28, 2015 at 8:34 pm

    I just found your website and learned about power sheets and I need them in my life!

  201. Isabel on December 28, 2015 at 8:41 pm

    Thank you for the goodies and the encouragement, I´m so happy for this series. Can wait to set some goals and start 2016 with a new beginning.

  202. Cathy Warner on December 28, 2015 at 8:42 pm

    Confession time…I purchased your Power Sheets in the fall of 2015. I found I couldn’t complete them. I would just stare at them. It was a really tough time. God has made a big move in my life closing doors to past pain and opening a new one to Him. Now I feel ready. Bring on the Power Sheets!

  203. Susan F. on December 28, 2015 at 8:42 pm

    Love your blog and your products! Thanks for the great giveaway:)

  204. Meredith Johnston on December 28, 2015 at 8:43 pm

    I cannot wait to do this! I just got married and my husband and I are going to jump into this tonight!

  205. Ferial on December 28, 2015 at 8:45 pm

    I love the growing in your garden reflection sheet, thank you!

  206. Amy Carney on December 28, 2015 at 8:46 pm

    Loved this inspirational post and the printables you provided as well! I have a Blessings dinner planned with some friends that touched my life in 2015 and I can’t wait to share some of your inspiration with them! Here’s to an amazing 2016!

  207. Alison Z on December 28, 2015 at 8:49 pm

    I am looking forward to embracing the power sheets. I know I need to give myself grace, stop being so hard on myself and live with intention. My husband and I are hoping to make a baby this year, so all of those things will be essential.

  208. Erin on December 28, 2015 at 8:49 pm

    Thank you for this! I needed to read this: purpose over perfection.

  209. Kate Wildman on December 28, 2015 at 8:50 pm

    Woohoo! thanks for such a great giveaway! 2015 was filled with good things: Trips for work to New York, Miami, San Francisco, Jackson,and Grand Rapids; a six month rest from business trips (huge!); a beautiful Chicago summer; vacation to the Amalfi coast; starting my business’ website and blog; filling my goal of 20 calligraphy orders; and becoming a member at my church. Looking forward to 2016 and all the good things coming!

  210. Alison Z on December 28, 2015 at 8:51 pm

    I have encouraged my husband to take this journey with me. We’ll need all the help we can get if we’re going to make a family.

  211. Crystal on December 28, 2015 at 8:52 pm

    So inspired to hear from and learn from you! Thanks for writing this series and for being obedient to the Lord in “redefining” success and encouraging others to follow Christ over the world’s definition of success. Excited for a fresh start and a purpose filled year.

  212. jenna chalk on December 28, 2015 at 8:55 pm

    Love your power sheets and your personal experience with them as motivation!

  213. Emily Martin on December 28, 2015 at 8:55 pm

    I finished Powersheets prep section today! Planning on filling out the January tending tomorrow!

  214. Candace on December 28, 2015 at 9:01 pm

    I have SO been looking forward to this series! YAY!

  215. rebecca on December 28, 2015 at 9:06 pm

    i have been looking forward to this!

  216. Jennifer Johnson on December 28, 2015 at 9:09 pm

    This looks amazing!

  217. Sarah T on December 28, 2015 at 9:10 pm

    I can’t wait to get started on a messy, puporseful 2016! I started power sheets for the first time in 2015, and am very much looking forward to this new year. I’m getting married, and to be able to stay focused on what really matters as my fiancé and I plan our marriage is going to be so helpful and fun! 2016 is going to be a great year!

  218. Dana Hartness (Happy Little Lovelies) on December 28, 2015 at 9:10 pm

    2 big + good things from this past year: we had our fourth baby, Jones (!) and Jesus helped me overcome my fear of scheduling and enduring kid’s dentist appointments (it was a thing). It led to quite a few hard moments with one of our boys, but to have that fear gone and for him to have a healthy mouth was so worth the scary phone calls!

  219. Mollie on December 28, 2015 at 9:14 pm

    This has been on of my favorite parts of this last week in December for the last couple years! So excited to see where this process leads me.

  220. Stephanie Suire on December 28, 2015 at 9:15 pm

    I ordered my power sheets for 2015… and never used them. So I am so excited to do my goal setting for 2016 with my power sheets from last year! This year I WILL set goals and achieve them!

  221. Holly on December 28, 2015 at 9:19 pm

    I have the PowerSheets and I’m digging in this week. First time using them and excited about doing some great planning for 2016. Thank you!

  222. Dana Hartness (Happy Little Lovelies) on December 28, 2015 at 9:20 pm

    Just texted a dear friend who lives far away and told her about how seeing her and texting with her all last year was such a highlight for me. 🙂

  223. Stela on December 28, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    Oh my goodness! My word this year is PURPOSEFUL.. What a great time to do something like this. I just ordered the book. I’m so looking forward to this! Thank you!

  224. Catherine @ A Spirited Mind on December 28, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    I’m opening up my Powersheets today (best Christmas present!) and am looking forward to your series!

  225. Kylie on December 28, 2015 at 9:24 pm

    I am SO excited to start working with your Powersheets. I found you on Instagram a month ago and I’ve already bought giftcards to your store for a few of my friends/teammates.
    One of my big goals for 2016 is to start a blog that I’ve been telling myself I would start for YEARS. Because of some of your teachings, I’m writing my first blog to be posted today…BEFORE 2016 even starts. So unlike me – I’m Miss Procrastinator to the core. But not in 2016! I have big dreams in my MLM business for the upcoming year and I cannot wait to use your Powersheets to help keep focused and heading in the right direction — and to also keep in mind that I need to follow my heart sometimes, too.
    Congratulations on your new addition. What an incredible gift for the new year!

  226. Sylvia on December 28, 2015 at 9:24 pm

    I so desperately want to get organized and be intentional in all areas of my life. Praying I can be committed to this series and the Lord will honor my desires to help me be committed, thank you Lara!

  227. Shauna on December 28, 2015 at 9:24 pm

    I feel so inspired to make 2016 an amazing year for myself and my family. Each year i get paralyzed with fear of the unknown, how big the task feels, or just because I don’t have all the answers right now! I am ready to be uncomfortable to allow myself the ability to have purpose in this life so it doesn’t pass me by.

  228. Liz on December 28, 2015 at 9:26 pm

    Oh please please please!!!!!

  229. Nikki H. on December 28, 2015 at 9:26 pm

    I came across your blog via Kayse Pratt’s recent series. I love the new year and the fresh start that it brings. Looking forward to following along with this series and would love to win the giveaway.

  230. sara on December 28, 2015 at 9:28 pm

    Power sheets have changed my life. You are amazing Lara!

  231. Caterina on December 28, 2015 at 9:29 pm

    What a wonderful giveaway! Goal setting can seem so daunting. This is a lovely way to start. Thank you!

  232. Hope on December 28, 2015 at 9:32 pm

    What an inspiration! I need to start my goal planning for the year!

  233. Lisa Myhre on December 28, 2015 at 9:34 pm

    Love your website!

  234. Sarah on December 28, 2015 at 9:42 pm

    Thank you so much for the encouragement!

  235. Lyn on December 28, 2015 at 9:45 pm

    I’ve know God has a plan for me and have followed the path He put in front of me. Some things are changing with my job and I face an uncertain future. Since I became a grandma 10/2/14, I am looking for a way to get myself together. A friend showed me your power sheets and I bought your book yesterday. 2016 is going to be MY year! Thanks for helping illuminate the path!!

  236. Brooke on December 28, 2015 at 9:47 pm

    Love this! Thank you so much for sharing.

  237. Misty on December 28, 2015 at 9:54 pm

    I would love to win this! It would be a dream come true!

  238. Brigid on December 28, 2015 at 9:57 pm

    I was stuck away from family over the holidays, so I started my PowerSheets in December. While I was bummed to not be with loved ones, I enjoyed the gift of uninterrupted, introspective time. It’s interesting to see how much my goals have changed since even last year!

  239. melissa l. j. on December 28, 2015 at 9:59 pm

    so, so thankful for lara casey and powersheets (first time using them) and the encouragement you all provide. =)

  240. Lyn on December 28, 2015 at 10:03 pm

    My daughter is pregnant with her second child due in May. I am visiting for the holiday and have been trying to help and encourage her by doing as much for her and her husband while I am here. Babysitting, straightening toys and washing dishes and clothes go a long way to making it easier for them. Added bonus…spending time with my granddaughter!

  241. Heather on December 28, 2015 at 10:05 pm

    Your goal setting series is always one of my favorite ways to kick of the new year! I’m excited to jump in and plan for the year ahead. And WOW! This giveaway is incredible! I would love to win any of the things you are giving away! Thanks for your generosity!

  242. melissa l. j. on December 28, 2015 at 10:09 pm

    Just texted a new friend from church… hoping it encourages her heart at a time she needs it.

  243. Joanne on December 28, 2015 at 10:12 pm

    Looking forward to clearing the clutter in our garage! Moving to a smaller house worked! Great incentive to simplify.
    Congratulations on adoption news! 🙂

  244. Gemma on December 28, 2015 at 10:12 pm

    I discovered you this time last year Lara, as a newly married lady, unsure of what the year would bring. We’ve been so grateful for God’s goodness to us and as a new adventure is presenting itself to us as 2016 approaches; we’re beyond excited. I so wanted to get my hands on some powersheets, but have been slow on the uptake due to international-ness! I’ll be happily following along with my journal and an excited heart. Thank you for everything that you do! x

  245. Juanita on December 28, 2015 at 10:15 pm

    I am starting my PowerSheets, a little nervous about what I will find out – will I be able to put it into action. I do know I am willing to try.

  246. Kayla Jones on December 28, 2015 at 10:15 pm

    I love this giveaway Lara! I really admire your love for all of your followers and how you are such a motivator. Keep touching lives!

  247. Lisa on December 28, 2015 at 10:16 pm

    Taking my own leap! Scared as heck! Ready for change! Thank you for your help!

  248. Kayla Jones on December 28, 2015 at 10:18 pm

    I encouraged someone by telling them it’s okay not to be perfect and that their progress is a testimony in itself

  249. Pasha on December 28, 2015 at 10:20 pm

    I absolutely love this! I’ll be re-reading this tonight to fully take it what you wrote.

  250. Erica on December 28, 2015 at 10:22 pm

    Hooray! This post brings me such joy. I appreciate your vulnerability; it helps me craft my goals with a tender heart. Jamie Ivey once said that prayer is the greatest way to prepare for adoption, so I will be praying for you, Ari, your little ones, and your lil’ girl’s birth mother. My husband and I both are so excited for the Powersheets for couples in 2017. Thank you for all you do.

  251. Georgie Crowden on December 28, 2015 at 10:24 pm

    I’ve been hearing about your PowerSheets for a while now but I’m terrible at follow through – this post has given me the kick in the pants I needed to commit. Thank you for your honesty, heartfelt words and encouragement.

  252. Erica on December 28, 2015 at 10:26 pm

    I filled out one of your fantastic Encouragement Cards to mail to my sister! She worked so hard over Christmas to make it special.

  253. Kandis on December 28, 2015 at 10:30 pm

    love, love, love that i found you! this is going to be my best year yet!

  254. Kandis on December 28, 2015 at 10:31 pm

    encouraged and she ordered PowerSheets and the book! yay!!!

  255. Aaron on December 28, 2015 at 10:31 pm

    Such a great giveaway!

  256. Jennifer on December 28, 2015 at 10:36 pm

    I have LOVED doing the Powersheets prep work. It has made me think through so much. Emotions that have been buried deep.

  257. Noreen on December 28, 2015 at 10:39 pm

    Love all the goodies in the giveaway. Good Things this past year: moving forward to change career though very scary; spending more time acknowledging self care; and cultivating valuable friendships. Things I wish went differently: Dissolution of some friendships I thought were strong and unbreakable; God not opening doors as quickly as I would like; and coming to terms with hard truths. Thank you for your honestly Lara!

  258. Mary Laura on December 28, 2015 at 10:43 pm

    Always an encouragement to hear what is on your heart, Lara. You are real and honest and it is so refreshing and inspiring. I am so grateful for your hard work and the way you pour yourself into helping others. Blessings on you and your sweet family!

  259. christy on December 28, 2015 at 10:46 pm

    I have been chasing significance, value and self worth. Trying to do things that will be successful so I can feel like I matter and my life has meaning and purpose. Looking forward to letting all of that go in 2016 and living a life of purpose and meaning just simply by being the ME God created me to be. <3

  260. Christina on December 28, 2015 at 10:50 pm

    Love this! So much 2016 inspiration!

  261. christy on December 28, 2015 at 10:50 pm

    I just texted my gym trainer and thanked her for all of her encouragement during her training classes this year and how I looked forward to reaching all of my fitness goals in 2016!!

  262. Taya on December 28, 2015 at 10:51 pm

    Looking forward to this series! I’ve also been enjoying seeing what you’ve been doing with your PowerSheets! Thanks for the chance at winning!

  263. Jessi on December 28, 2015 at 10:51 pm

    So cool!

  264. Christina on December 28, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    Love this!! Can’t wait to get started on goals for 2016!

  265. Tanya on December 28, 2015 at 10:53 pm

    I pray that I win this! I don’t have the funds to buy it but it would be amazing to win it. It would bless me so!

  266. Lori Grundy on December 28, 2015 at 10:54 pm

    Could be a great 2016 !

  267. Donna Gail Spencer on December 28, 2015 at 10:56 pm

    This is CRAZY good insight!!! Thank you for sharing the insight…why is it that sometimes it takes the message coming in someone else’s voice to carry weight.

  268. Megan on December 28, 2015 at 10:56 pm

    What a great way to start off 2016! Thanks for the chance to transform our lives and make our goals achievable! Your positive energy is an inspiration!

  269. Beth on December 28, 2015 at 11:00 pm

    Great motivation to get into gear to start 2016 on the right foot. Will you be hosting a webinar in January like you did last year?

  270. CJ on December 28, 2015 at 11:07 pm

    I am so glad God pushed me toward your company and your blog this year Lara! He has used your words in so many cases to encourage me and keep me looking to Him.
    I was able to take some time off work this week and one of my main goals for this quietness is to reflect on 2015 and make an intentional plan for 2016. In the past year I’ve learned that God has given me more skills and gifts than I though – He has made me capable of more than I thought possible. But I’ve been chasing life so hard, trying to make up for the time when I just existed instead of lived on purpose, that I’ve overextended myself. I’ve said yes to too much because I am afraid of slipping back into that rut of empty existence. My relationship with God is not as close as it should be because outside commitments are pulling too much of my focus. It is time to pick a direction instead of trying to straddle the fork in the road. I’m looking forward to seeing how God chooses to push new doors open as He closes old ones; I’m looking forward to growing and being better equipped to encourage those around me. I am so excited to learn new things and be moved forward.

  271. Meredith Stone on December 28, 2015 at 11:19 pm

    So inspiring! Everyone needs this in their lives! #sharegoodness

  272. Erin on December 28, 2015 at 11:21 pm

    These tools look fabulous!

  273. Jenna on December 28, 2015 at 11:24 pm

    This is totally amazing! Thank you for this generosity, Lara!

  274. Sharon brown on December 28, 2015 at 11:26 pm

    I came across this site today and I am so so grateful. I will be returning often for great insight and resources. This giveaway package would be a hug blessing in my life! 😀 😀

  275. Lisa on December 28, 2015 at 11:30 pm

    Stumbled across this on instragram – worksheets look amazing I’m ready for 2016 to be ‘big’ – lots of changes have happened leading up to this – I’m ready! All sold out – and being international , any guidance would be gratefully received.- cant’ wait to dive into your website.

  276. Monica McMinimy on December 28, 2015 at 11:35 pm

    I wouldn’t be disappointed with one gift over the other. Great choices. Love your blog.

  277. Carisa on December 28, 2015 at 11:36 pm

    Almost done with my powersheets prep. Excited to start an intentional January!

  278. Sarah Boyd on December 28, 2015 at 11:38 pm

    You are such a delight. Even if you never made powersheets or wrote your book you are such an encouragement and a light. My feed and my life is so much better with you and your sweet family in it 🙂

  279. Elizabeth on December 28, 2015 at 11:41 pm

    I love this so much! I have the power sheets and need to sit down to plan out the new year!

  280. Julie on December 28, 2015 at 11:50 pm

    My big challenge this year is beginning to print and sell my illustration artwork. Totally freaked out a bit by it but moving forward through my fear! I think this would really help me with this endeavor! I’m going to be using these tips to jump start:)

  281. Rosangela on December 28, 2015 at 11:53 pm

    It’s amazing to go through the Powersheets among such great and inspirational friends. I love this!

  282. Carrie on December 28, 2015 at 11:54 pm

    dear Lara,
    Thank you for even making the time to simply share how so many of us feel. Just the gift of clarity, alone is SO FREEING! And thank you for this generous giveaway. It is so encouraging. I love what you do!
    xo
    Care

  283. Michele on December 28, 2015 at 11:55 pm

    This is such an amazing giveaway, thanks for giving us the opportunity to win it!

  284. Christine on December 28, 2015 at 11:57 pm

    I just ordered Powersheets for the first time and am really excited to start 2016 with fresh intensions.

  285. Bridget on December 28, 2015 at 11:59 pm

    This is an exciting giveaway! I would love to win to jumpstart some goal setting for 2016!

  286. Carolina on December 29, 2015 at 12:00 am

    This year has been a bit of a mess for me personally and creatively. I find this to be so inspiring and such a great way to get down to the bottom of what changes I need to make in my life in order to live a happier life. Thanks for having shared this with us.

  287. Pamela on December 29, 2015 at 12:01 am

    I would love to win. I was too late ordering the Powersheets and I’m at a point in my business where I know I could really benefit from them. Blessings!

  288. Susie B on December 29, 2015 at 12:04 am

    So excited to be doing PowerSheets this year! I can’t wait for them to arrive.

  289. Anel on December 29, 2015 at 12:09 am

    Really looking forward to this! Great way to stay accountable and organized!

  290. Anel on December 29, 2015 at 12:11 am

    Today I encouraged my husband to go swimming! He has been talking about it for a while, and hasn’t gone. So to encourage him, I got him swimming stuff for Christmas, and told him today was as good as time as ever!

  291. Siena on December 29, 2015 at 12:13 am

    Lara, your encouragement is so precious to me, you really have no idea. Thank you so much. I got my first ever set of Power Sheets last week, and I’m so exited for the new year! Im a sophomore in high school, so I was really (and am still) not sure how they’ll work for me, but I have all my prep done and I’m ready to fill in my tending list for January! I didn’t make all 10 goal ideas, but making things happen is about breaking the rules! 😉
    My work for 2016 is change. I feel like all my life I’ve just coasted along, not doing anything different. But this year I’m ready for change! Most of my goals have to do with cultivating kindness and making a good relationship with my mom. I’ve never had a good relationship with my mom, and this year I’m focusing on saying no to pride and becoming a kind, respectful, generous daughter, not only of my mom, but of the Lord.
    I’m still not really sure what else my “it” is, but I think that even if cultivating a relationship with isn’t ‘what matters’ in the long run, it will be worth it.
    So thank you so, so much, Lara. I’m praying that your adoption goes just seamlessly and your sweet baby’s birth mother has a smooth delivery, and you get to hold your little one soon! God is so good! Thank you!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 2:02 am

      You inspire me sweet friend!

  292. Pamela on December 29, 2015 at 12:14 am

    I write one of my best friends who recently was laid off from her job. I told her I would be praying for her and for God to help her find a job she loves and where she would be a blessing to others! She is one of my dearest friends. Prayers for her and her family!

  293. Susie B on December 29, 2015 at 12:15 am

    Just encouraged my BFF to go through her closet and clean it out! New year, new organization!

  294. Jodi on December 29, 2015 at 12:16 am

    Thanks for making such a wonderful product Lara! And for your constant encouragement to individuals to Make what matters the most Happen!

  295. Lynn Wigren on December 29, 2015 at 12:19 am

    I very new to PowerSheets and your website but I loved this post. Fortunately after being undecided for a few weeks I purchased the PowerSheets yesterday! So glad I did!

  296. Sandy on December 29, 2015 at 12:21 am

    There are so many reasons I want to win this giveaway. Accountability, focus, love, purpose and more!!!

  297. Amanda on December 29, 2015 at 12:28 am

    Excited I found your blog! This is just what I needed!

  298. Jewel at eat.drink.shop.love on December 29, 2015 at 12:29 am

    Really looking forward to following this series. Your power sheets helped me a lot.

  299. Katie on December 29, 2015 at 12:30 am

    Wow! This post was amazing and I am digging into my Power Sheets now! Love all the giveaway items too 🙂

  300. Shannon on December 29, 2015 at 12:32 am

    Love this process (and Vega)!

  301. Charlene on December 29, 2015 at 12:35 am

    Looking forward to reviewing 2015 and making 2016 more intentional.

  302. Anna Campbell on December 29, 2015 at 12:51 am

    This year is all about being real. Being honest with my husband, loving my daughter, being who I am authentically without fear or regret, and not just praying for God to guide my decisions… but spending quality time with God and giving him my time to create in me the person he created me to be, his child. This year I am going to try and turn away from greed, stop trying to purchase love, and stop throwing away precious time with my family and friend. Friends! I am going to work on being a real friend. A real wife. A real mother. A real child of God.

  303. Ann D on December 29, 2015 at 12:53 am

    this looks amazing, I wish I had ordered the Powersheets before they sold out. Looking forward to having 2016 be awesome– I will be getting your book and Making it Happen! 🙂

  304. Kricia on December 29, 2015 at 12:56 am

    This is by far my favorite blog series of the New Year. I can’t wait to work through this with y’all and make some big dreams come to light this year! Here’s to change and new directions 🙂

  305. karen on December 29, 2015 at 12:59 am

    thank you so much!!!!!

  306. Sarah Hayes on December 29, 2015 at 1:02 am

    so many great tools to help me get on the right track this coming year!

  307. Rhiannan on December 29, 2015 at 1:02 am

    I just discovered you today through instagram! Wow I’ll be ordering your book for sure!

  308. Anne on December 29, 2015 at 1:05 am

    I started reading Make it Happen and already feel liberated in the sense that it is allowing me to let go of so much baggage and just be. Looking forward to diving into my Power Sheets for this year and making my goals into realities.

  309. Deb on December 29, 2015 at 1:07 am

    You and Emily Ley were my sweet endings to 2015. I now have the planner and your book and follow your blog. 2016 should be a wonderful year of anticipation and joy!

  310. Deb on December 29, 2015 at 1:10 am

    Thank ful for your transparency and openness for 2016

  311. Ilea Bingham on December 29, 2015 at 1:13 am

    I really never dove into the details of your powersheets until today. Wow. I’m really inspired and I’ve had such a tough time gearing up for the new year, but I’m feeling better about at least STARTING by reflecting on 2015.

  312. Cary on December 29, 2015 at 1:14 am

    This is my second year doing the Powersheets and I am so excited!!!! I love starting and ending my year this way!

  313. Nancy on December 29, 2015 at 1:21 am

    I just discovered your site. My ADD self needs to take very small bites!

  314. Marina McClure on December 29, 2015 at 1:32 am

    Praying for you all during this incredible journey! Sounds like it is a great year for embracing the messiness of lovely life! Blessings to you! You’ve certainly been one to me!

  315. Brenna on December 29, 2015 at 1:38 am

    Really looking forward to this series!

  316. Andrea on December 29, 2015 at 1:47 am

    So many of my friends love PowerSheets and I hope to get to working on some of my own! I encouraged my mom today as she is about to move to breathe and enjoy this transistor season.

  317. Linda on December 29, 2015 at 1:53 am

    I am so looking forward to sharing this journey with you. Thank you for your gift, your passion and your purpose.

  318. Lisa W on December 29, 2015 at 1:55 am

    Thanks so much for the post and more to.come . Happy new year!

  319. Tiffany on December 29, 2015 at 1:58 am

    I am so excited about this! I did this last year (unfortunately without the PowerSheets) and it has blessed me tremendously! Now as I (im)patiently wait for my PowerSheets to come in the mail, I am really excited to see where God takes me next! Thank you for your obedience and making this happen!!

  320. Carly on December 29, 2015 at 2:09 am

    Thank you for sharing your gift, Lara! I’m loving the PowerSheets so far. After a few weeks of laying the ground work, I’ve come up with my word for this year: be love(d). It fits perfectly as my husband and I are expecting our first child in June. The responsibility weighs heavy on me to set the right example but what I’ve learned along the way is that if I can love myself first, I can give that love right back.

  321. Carson R. on December 29, 2015 at 2:10 am

    Motivating me to follow through!

  322. Erika on December 29, 2015 at 2:14 am

    Looking forward to this week now. Thanks, Lara!

  323. Laura Knobel on December 29, 2015 at 2:27 am

    I love all of the inspiring items you chose to include! I already have some of them, but I can think of people in my life who I could spread the love to by sharing a few things from the giveaway if I were a winner! 🙂 Thanks for being so generous!

  324. Laura Knobel on December 29, 2015 at 2:28 am

    I decided to send encouragement to a dear friend of mine who is a new mom who just headed back to work after maternity leave. I reminded her that I love her, and that she is amazing and a wonderful mommy to her baby girl!

  325. Amy on December 29, 2015 at 2:30 am

    Just started my prep work for this year. So excited to make 2016 intentional. Powersheets were life changing for me last year even though I wasn’t the best at keeping up every month. Ready to make more progress.

  326. Carla on December 29, 2015 at 2:33 am

    Thank you, Lara, for all you are sharing! Looking forward to learning more!

  327. Kimberly on December 29, 2015 at 2:37 am

    Looking forward to joining this series. I’m grateful for and enjoy the encouragement I get from reading your blog and listening to you, Lara. May God bless you and keep you and yours in the year(s) ahead. 2016, here we come!

  328. Erika on December 29, 2015 at 2:39 am

    Well, clearly I commented on the wrong blog post. OOPS, sorry about that!

    I will say that I sent a good friend of my a well deserved text about how much I look up to her. And that her life is encouragement for me in so many ways (health, family, finances). None of these things are extravagant in her life, but she does things with such honesty, simplicity and purity. Her daily walk encourages me and I wanted to share that with her. So I sent her a message telling her that and encouraging her to know and own that she is a WONDER WOMAN!

  329. Amy on December 29, 2015 at 2:43 am

    Hooray! Makes me so excited about 2016. Thank you!

  330. Amy on December 29, 2015 at 2:45 am

    encouragement idea: tell your mom how thankful you are for her and her love for you 🙂 moms are the best!

  331. Joy on December 29, 2015 at 3:00 am

    I would love to win this—I just discovered your powersheets, and I found with sadness I was too late! They were already sold out. Thank you so much for doing this series, and for the amazing giveaway!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:54 am

      We may have more coming in the spring. Stay tuned!

  332. Luisa on December 29, 2015 at 3:05 am

    I loved reading this post! Thanks for sharing the process! It helps so much to walk through this together. It has taken me a bit longer to start working on the powersheets this month since I was reading the book 🙂 I am now on step 6. Wohooo!

  333. Amy W. on December 29, 2015 at 3:08 am

    I’ve looked forward to this series every year since you started. I can hardly wait to Make Things Happen in 2016!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:55 am

      Yay Amy!!

  334. Amy W. on December 29, 2015 at 3:09 am

    Encouragement Idea: Text a friend you haven’t heard from in a while and express your gratitude for their example, and the ways they’ve blessed your life.

  335. Diana on December 29, 2015 at 3:13 am

    Thank you Lara for living your purpose so we may go and make ours happen! Wishing you a wonderful 2016!

  336. Amanda on December 29, 2015 at 3:19 am

    I’m a first time visitor to the site but my sister is already loving her new Powersheets. Hopefully I can win a copy so I can join in the fun too!

  337. Chelsea on December 29, 2015 at 3:21 am

    As a recovering perfectionist, I was a little skeptical when I first read that this year was going to be “messy” goal setting! Then I started thinking about it and..realized… I was SO THRILLED to get my power sheets in the mail last year, but got so overwhelmed with wanting things to be perfect that I never got past the first few pages!! So…all things considered…I am now relieved to have a new goal for goal-setting….get MESSY!!

  338. Johanna Raymond on December 29, 2015 at 3:22 am

    Oh, my! Thank you for your work. I’m excited!

  339. Natasha on December 29, 2015 at 3:24 am

    Your powersheets are such a fresh approach to staying on track and staying goal focused. I’m so excited that someone showed me your blog 🙂

  340. Laura on December 29, 2015 at 3:37 am

    This is my first year having Powersheets, and I am SO excited!! I am only part of the way through, but after family leaves this upcoming weekend, I am looking forward to really digging in (a little after January 1st…and my perfectionist self is learning to be okay with that!). I am also very excited about this giveaway!

  341. bobbie on December 29, 2015 at 3:37 am

    Thank you for sharing how you are using the goal sheets. helps a great deal!

  342. Leslie Hollingsworth on December 29, 2015 at 3:39 am

    I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have this! I have SO many goals for 2016 and I need something to keep me organized!!! And it helps that all the products are SUPER cute 🙂

  343. shelby peaden on December 29, 2015 at 3:40 am

    What an amazing giveaway. So many awesome things to fire anyone up for 2016. My word for this year is going to be balance, I want to gracefully balance my life. Being a mom, wife, business owner, friend, daughter, etc is hard. I love hearing you say that sometimes we need to embrace the mess…that is what I am going to do. Here is to a mess filled 2016, but mess with grace, mess with purpose and mess with balance.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:55 am

      I love you friend!

  344. Christi Traster on December 29, 2015 at 4:05 am

    Progress, not perfection! I have had so many lightbulb moments while working on my Powersheets. Lara, you are a gem! So grateful for all you do! xo

  345. Laura Rahel Crosby on December 29, 2015 at 4:09 am

    This is so incredible! I can’t wait to start 2016 with this approach and mindset. The powersheets are all sold out right now but I can’t wait until their are more. I would love to win these amazing resources. Thank you for sharing more of your story with us!

  346. Dallas on December 29, 2015 at 4:11 am

    What a great post! I can’t wait to start my powersheets! Thank you for sharing your heart!

  347. Melanie Butler on December 29, 2015 at 4:13 am

    I received the power sheet books and your book for Christmas I am so excited to get started!

  348. Bethany Harrison on December 29, 2015 at 4:27 am

    I am so encouraged by you Laura! Thank you for being you!

  349. Jasmine Green on December 29, 2015 at 4:32 am

    Wow. I love everything about this post and have bookmarked it so I can sit down properly with pen, paper, bible in hand and prepare for 2016 and ‘making it happen!’ Thanks, Lara. You are a star and truly amazing. xx

  350. Ashleigh on December 29, 2015 at 4:39 am

    Thank you so much for always doing this series, Lara! Prayerfully thinking through the upcoming year and writing down my dreams and goals is something I get so excited about every year. The last three years, I have gone through your process and they have been some of the most rewarding and faith-building years of my life. I’m so grateful to you for sharing with us!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:53 am

      I’m so happy to hear this! Made my morning! God is so good!

  351. Melissa on December 29, 2015 at 4:43 am

    Wow! I adore your PowerSheets! Can’t wait to use them. So thankful my dear friend let me know about you. Thank you for sharing so many inspiring ideas.

  352. Monica on December 29, 2015 at 5:00 am

    Thank you for being such an inspiration. I really want to accomplish my goals this year and make 2016 my best yet. I hope I win the giveaway 🙂 This is a wonderful opportunity.

  353. Mary on December 29, 2015 at 5:08 am

    So excited to have found this amazing resource and really excited to start planning 2016 with purpose and inspiration…

  354. Kayla on December 29, 2015 at 5:18 am

    This is my first year of working through Power Sheets and it has been great so far! I am working on restoration of my inner life in 2016. It has been a difficult past couple years, but I am ready for renewal and fullness. Inviting Jesus in to help me sort through my mess this year.

  355. Jamie K on December 29, 2015 at 5:18 am

    Learned about the Powersheets recently from Cori, The Reset Girl. May have missed out on buying the workbook, but I LOVE the idea! Thank you for creating such an intentional and inspirational tool.

  356. shellene cook on December 29, 2015 at 5:22 am

    This is so exciting! Congratulations on your new journey in 2016 and beyond.

  357. rachel morris on December 29, 2015 at 5:23 am

    Yay! I have been working through my Powersheets since yesterday and am LOVING it so far. So thankful for this tool and the encouragement you are spreading! 🙂

    So excited for what the Lord is doing in your family!

  358. Leanne on December 29, 2015 at 5:44 am

    Wow.

    Wow. Wow. WOW!

    I’ve never gone through such a fantastic, well thought out look back at a past year. It was so refreshing to write it all down and see it on paper staring back at me. 3 1/2 pages full of insight into 2015; what worked, what didn’t, what I’m happy about, what needs attention…

    Winning anything from the giveaway would be a great bonus but I’m happy to have found this post because I feel like it’s the first step towards a great year ahead. 2016 is going to be a great year. I mean that. For the first time though, I don’t need to look outside of myself to know whether or not me saying that is silly… I realized through this post (& writing things down) that I had been chasing approval and acceptance… not just in 2015 but pretty much my entire life. I need to find approval and acceptance from now on within… so I will stand alone (and be content with that) and say once again that 2016 is going to be a great year… and finally I can do that without needing to have anyone agree with me or pat me on the back.

    I can’t wait to read the next post. 🙂

    Thank you so much Lara. xo

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:48 am

      I’m so encouraged by you and the progress you’ve already made in digging deep! That’s why I do this series! Hooray!!

  359. Jody on December 29, 2015 at 6:18 am

    I found Powersheets three weeks ago when I was desperate to restore some sort of balance and order to my life. Thank you.

  360. Perrin on December 29, 2015 at 6:46 am

    So excited for you and your upcoming adoption! And I am looking forward to reading the books that you posted about- they all look so good! Happy New Years!

  361. Lisa B on December 29, 2015 at 6:57 am

    Thank you for the opportunity to win!

  362. Kate on December 29, 2015 at 6:58 am

    I have just discovered this and love this blog so much.. I have just ordered your book Make it happen and I wish I could afford the Power sheets but I cant so I have made my own journal with your free printable templates and I am going to make 2016 the best year yet!! thank you for this Lara!!!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:52 am

      My pleasure! : )

  363. Melissa Affleck on December 29, 2015 at 6:58 am

    Thank you, Lara, for your heart and your encouragement. The prep work that I have done on my powersheets has already been worth it to me. Even though this year has now played out the way that I have expected, God has been so good and reflecting on the lessons of this year, really helped me to acknowledge that and thank Him. It also makes me even more excited to see what this year brings.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:49 am

      I’m so encouraged to hear this!

  364. Heidi on December 29, 2015 at 7:19 am

    Thanks for the encouraging push to get things back in order!

  365. Tristen on December 29, 2015 at 8:02 am

    The 2016 powersheets would make me the happiest ever!!!!

  366. Lisa on December 29, 2015 at 8:03 am

    This is such an amazing concePT AND I’ve recruited my hubby to join in with me. yay!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:49 am

      Yay! So glad your hubs is joining too!

  367. Sara Lynott on December 29, 2015 at 8:21 am

    What a great post

  368. Andrea Sadowski on December 29, 2015 at 8:28 am

    You have a great giveaway!! I hope I win something!!!

  369. Dawn on December 29, 2015 at 8:32 am

    I am so encouraged by the Powersheets! I have already had some breakthroughs! I have been stuck for a while now and I have prayed that God would use these Powersheets as a devotional journal to work through all my many commitments. I may need to take a risk and let some go. There are so many…and that is just family, my home, and homeschooling! My desire is that these sheets will help me organize and manage them with God’s Grace!

  370. Fiona on December 29, 2015 at 8:44 am

    This is my first year with power sheets and it’s taking some time to dig down to the true answers and feelings but I’m looking forward to getting to some positive goals and living 2016 more intentionally. Your posts and videos are so encouraging and love the inspiration of how you walk in faith openly. Thank you for being you.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:52 am

      Thank you for the encouragement! Just prayed for your year ahead!

  371. Dione on December 29, 2015 at 8:51 am

    Such a blessing. Thank you!!

  372. Dione on December 29, 2015 at 8:59 am

    I am so bummed! Finally got the money to pay for the PowerSheets, and they’re gone! So thankful this contest is going on as I’ve been chatting to a few of my friends on the journey I’m about to undertake, and now they’re bummed the PowerSheets are sold out, too. Oh, wait, I was supposed to be encouraging. I did. Promise!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:50 am

      We are considering a pre-order for spring delivery, so stay tuned! There may be more coming : )

  373. Rachel on December 29, 2015 at 9:26 am

    This is so wonderful. Thank you for sharing xx

  374. Donna on December 29, 2015 at 9:36 am

    Yay! So excited about this series! I’ll be sharing!

  375. Daiana on December 29, 2015 at 10:53 am

    This year, I started to #makeithappen.
    In 2016, I will continue to learn, choosing progress over perfection.

    If I had continued to chase perfect, I would have accomplished little to nothing, except gathering discontentment in my heart. Choosing to progress, letting myself rejoice in the journey instead of dreaming about the destination has changed my life!

    Right now, I realised I want to stop using “I need to learn more about it before I get started” as an excuse not to do what I am called to do.
    I need to stop considering myself unqualified and thank God for all the gifts and talents that He has given me.

    “I’m not good enough” is just a distraction from “I can do all things through Chrits who strengthens me!”

  376. Rachel @ Smart Mom Smart Ideas on December 29, 2015 at 11:38 am

    Just started my Powersheets and reading Make It Happen. Both are so helpful together.

  377. Meg Wilson on December 29, 2015 at 11:49 am

    Wow! What a great giveaway with some awesome prizes!! Congrats on your adoption Lara, and I will be praying for you for that as well as getting your book done!! Now I’m off to start my tending list for January! 🙂

  378. Myranda Sieverding on December 29, 2015 at 12:07 pm

    So excited to start this grace filled journey!

  379. cheryl majcen on December 29, 2015 at 12:09 pm

    I sent a message to my best friend and new Mommy Julie this morning! Telling her she is strong and amazing and I hope she has a great day!!

  380. Jessica on December 29, 2015 at 12:25 pm

    I was so bummed to miss out on the PowerSheets, but excited to see this blog post!
    What have I been chasing? Significance. I know comparison is so dangerous, but it is a trap I have fallen into so many times, and 2015 seemed the year to be completely ensnared, which is why I am so excited to enter 2016! New year, new life! With work of course, and a whole lot of God’s grace, mercy, and power! Thanks for this blog post, it has me thinking and celebrating what is to come!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:42 pm

      Oh I love your thoughts! P.S. We just opened pre-orders in the shop for the next shipment of PowerSheets! : )

  381. Mary on December 29, 2015 at 1:46 pm

    2015 was a hard year. When I try to look back at the good things I realize the whole year was a chase for more drugs to feed my habit. I thought they would make me happy and I used them to excape reality of my crumbling life. Some good things happened. My sister had another baby but no one wanted me around because of my self distrustion. I lost a lot in 2015 relationships, God, and my self. I bet a lot of good things happened that I can’t remember because of all the drugs.
    2016 I’m going to say no to drugs and escaping. I’m going to be present in my life and re cultivate the relationships I lost in 2015. I will not let my past mistakes dictate my future.
    Today I feel scared and worried. I’m scared I won’t be able to stay drug free. I’m scared I can’t get back the things I lost. I pray God uses this Goal setting time and 2016 to destroy my shame and guilt. To bring along new godly friends and encourages me to make things happen.

  382. Ashlynne on December 29, 2015 at 2:03 pm

    What a wonderful opportunity to walk through goal setting for those of us who didn’t get our powersheets in time this year. Thank you for sharing your heart Lara

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:41 pm

      We just opened pre-orders in the shop : )

  383. Darcy on December 29, 2015 at 2:14 pm

    I can’t wait to get started on goal setting for 2016!

  384. Melanie on December 29, 2015 at 2:22 pm

    floundering in my packed life right now.. not sure where to start or where I’m supposed to be going, but I do have your book and might start with reading it(finally). Thanks!

  385. Melanie @ Gather for Bread on December 29, 2015 at 2:23 pm

    Lara, I’m so excited about this series. The Make it Happen book was so great that I’m definitely going to reading it again this year. Thanks for sharing your heart girlfriend

    Praying God’s blessing over your adoption in 2016!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:41 pm

      I am so grateful you were encouraged, and thank you for those prayers!!

  386. Dahlena Stapp on December 29, 2015 at 2:52 pm

    I am so thankful to the whole PowerSheets team that I came across your products. Lara, you are truly an inspiration and make me want to be a better woman!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:42 pm

      Our pleasure and thank you for those kind words!

  387. Sandra Danielson on December 29, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    Good stuff! Power Sheets are sold out so hopefully I can win a set!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:40 pm

      We just opened pre-orders in the shop : )

  388. Sarah W on December 29, 2015 at 3:13 pm

    Thank you for this giveaway! I LOVE your blog and how you are so open and honest about life. I love your encouraging heart! Thank you!

  389. Alicia Wiley on December 29, 2015 at 3:28 pm

    What an amazing giveaway! Your book and powersheets are changing my life. I am a first year mama and trying to run a business and also work full time has left me feeling stretched in 1,000 ways and unable to take care of myself and nourish my mind and soul. I can’t thank you enough for changing my life for the better. The area I never want to fail in is being a wife and mother, Putting my family first is so amazing and I feel the stress slowly leaving my body.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:42 pm

      I am so grateful the book and PowerSheets have encouraged you!

  390. Alex on December 29, 2015 at 3:28 pm

    Thank you so much for doing this series! I am a young professional who is still figuring out what my major goals might be in the upcoming years, so I didn’t want to spend the money on a full set of power sheets quite yet, so this is perfect for me! I can’t wait to follow along with the series and get ta goin on some person goals for 2016. One being – start a blog!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:42 pm

      You can do it, Alex! I am cheering you on!

  391. Jessie on December 29, 2015 at 3:31 pm

    I love the idea of embracing messy. I think giving yourself grace, which is what I see in the idea of embracing messy, is such a powerful gift that serves all those around you – not just yourself.

  392. Nicole Ross on December 29, 2015 at 3:31 pm

    What a great kickoff to the new year!

  393. Melissa Conklin on December 29, 2015 at 3:43 pm

    I read Make it Happen during my honeymoon at the beginning of this year, and I can’t believe how fast it has flown. A lot of firsts and friendships and lessons learned.

  394. Amanda on December 29, 2015 at 3:44 pm

    How exciting will 2016 be?

  395. Kenesha on December 29, 2015 at 3:55 pm

    I’m gearing up for 2016 and would love to win this pack. I also am encouraging my BFF we plan to rock 2016!

  396. Heidi on December 29, 2015 at 3:55 pm

    What wonderful tips and guidance! I love the images and encouragement.

  397. Amy Osburn on December 29, 2015 at 4:04 pm

    I love your openness on your blog. Thank you for kicking me in the tail to get my goals in order….or at least the thought s going in my head about them.

  398. paula on December 29, 2015 at 4:12 pm

    I so needed this encouragement!

  399. Shannon P. on December 29, 2015 at 4:19 pm

    Best investment I made in 2015 was the Powersheets! Thank you for helping me reach my goals. Looking forward to 2016.

  400. Kellyann on December 29, 2015 at 4:21 pm

    Can you be excited but scared to start this journey? My emotions are all over the place as I commit myself to living on purpose! Thank you for providing such encouraging words! I have been saving your blogs and now I have the book to guide me too (yeah!) I was too late to get the Powersheets for this year, but I am taking that as lesson #1in waiting- progress,not perfection, right??

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:43 pm

      I feel those things too! : ) P.S. We just opened pre-orders for the next shipment of PowerSheets in the shop!

  401. Bekah on December 29, 2015 at 4:25 pm

    Yay! So expectant and encouraged to see how Jesus works in this coming year!

  402. Rachel on December 29, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    Your awesome motivation is just what I need to start the new year on the right track! Thanks for the amazing giveaway, too!

  403. Deborah on December 29, 2015 at 4:42 pm

    2015 was a roller coaster, but I learned a lot. Excited to see what God has for 2016!

  404. Erin Blackwell on December 29, 2015 at 4:51 pm

    Omg this is amazing! I would love to win!

  405. Sarah C on December 29, 2015 at 4:52 pm

    I know that 2016 is going to be an epic year! Love your products, thanks for the giveaway’

  406. Cara on December 29, 2015 at 4:58 pm

    Thank you Lara for all that you do in helping, equipping, and encouraging us to meet our goals and plant good seeds. I am praying for action in 2016 and inviting the mess to unearth the good stuff, as you say!!

  407. Kimberly on December 29, 2015 at 5:03 pm

    What an amazing giveaway! I’m looking forward to seeing all FIVE of you get messy in the new year! <3

  408. Cara on December 29, 2015 at 5:09 pm

    I texted one of my best friends today who is going through a rough time in early mama-hood. I let her know she is an amazing mama to her little.

  409. Dayna on December 29, 2015 at 5:13 pm

    I am so excited for 2016! Thank you for the giveaway!

  410. Logan Turner on December 29, 2015 at 5:15 pm

    I’m so glad I discovered you through the planner community. Thank you for all you share with us!

  411. Becky on December 29, 2015 at 5:21 pm

    I missed ordering by minutes! Thjs is the year I dive in and write my first book. And I need these power sheets!!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:39 pm

      We just opened pre-orders in the shop! : ) : ) : )

  412. Kari on December 29, 2015 at 5:27 pm

    Would love to win!! Love your tips 🙂

  413. Joanie on December 29, 2015 at 5:31 pm

    I’m so excited to write my 2016 goals!

  414. Jen on December 29, 2015 at 5:49 pm

    Going through your power sheets right now and excited for what God is going to do in2016!

  415. Jen on December 29, 2015 at 5:51 pm

    I sent one of my friends a card in the mail who recently moved to a new state and is having a rough time adjusting. Snail mail is good for ANYONE’s soul! 🙂

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:38 pm

      That is awesome! Yay for real mail!

  416. Stacey Kasun on December 29, 2015 at 6:00 pm

    Just ordered my power sheets!!! So excited to start goal planning with purpose and intention! (Which I think will be my words of the year)

  417. Ashley on December 29, 2015 at 6:01 pm

    My husband and I are staring the adoption process in January! Excited and nervous… encouraged by those who have walked before us! Thanks for your heart for the Lord and influence!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:38 pm

      That is wonderful! Yay!!!

  418. Ashley on December 29, 2015 at 6:02 pm

    Thank you for sharing your wisdom, insight and encouragement, Lara! I’m really ready for a NEW year and fresh start in 2016….I’m ready to make it happen! Blessings to you and your family in the new year:)

  419. Casey on December 29, 2015 at 6:02 pm

    This could not be more perfectly timed & this is so beautifully written, Lara! (As in, I may have just sat in my car & read the entire thing start to finish & cried along the way a time or two) Your honesty, sincerity & vulnerability shine through & everything seems so relatable. Purpose over perfect, I love that. I can’t wait to sit down with my power sheets & really get messy, get my hands dirty preparing for 2016 to be the best year yet. Thanks for always sharing the good, bad & messy!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:38 pm

      I’m so grateful you’ve been encouraged, Casey!

  420. Becky on December 29, 2015 at 6:03 pm

    I am excited to get a jump on organizational skills this next year, as it is not a gift I have had previously. I want to glorify God in all I do and say, and he is a God of order. This characteristic does not mean that I have to control at all cost, but I do want to not live in chaos

  421. Holly Chase on December 29, 2015 at 6:08 pm

    Having recently moved back halfway across the country I have found myself to be unemployed so I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to still participate in the “Make it Happen” experience by following along (with your blog and periscope) and using my own journal. You and your team are such a blessing. Thank you.

  422. Sandy C on December 29, 2015 at 6:11 pm

    So excited to start this Powersheet process. Lara’s Make It Happen book is amazing. Ready to reread it this week as I work on my goals.

  423. Lauren D. on December 29, 2015 at 6:13 pm

    I’ve been looking forward to this series for the last few months! Thank you! My now husband and I did your 2013 goal setting series separately and then came together and talked about what we had put together. It was so life-changing. We talked about so much and it solidified that our long-term goals were very similar. A few months later we got engaged, aside from being in love of course 🙂 , it was very easy to say yes knowing we had the same values and the life we pictured together was so similar.

  424. Jaime on December 29, 2015 at 6:14 pm

    This is so great! I wish I would have understood the “power” of the PowerSheets better before they were sold out so I could grab a set! I am in a season of reflection and growing, so your encouragement is so refreshing and inspiring. Thank you for doing what you do.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:37 pm

      We just opened pre-orders, so you can grab a set now – LaraCaseyShop.com : )

  425. karen on December 29, 2015 at 6:18 pm

    Thank you for the Ultimate Give Away!
    It is really awesome!
    May 2016 be the best year yet!
    I turn 60 this year.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:37 pm

      Happy 60th year! How wonderful!

  426. Lauren D. on December 29, 2015 at 6:22 pm

    I’ve been looking forward to this series for the last few months! Thank you! My now husband and I did your 2013 goal setting series separately and then came together and talked about what we had put together. It was so life-changing. We talked about so much and it solidified that our long-term goals were very similar. A few months later we got engaged, aside from being in love of course 🙂 , it was very easy to say yes knowing we had the same values and the life we pictured together was so similar.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 6:36 pm

      That is so encouraging, Lauren! I’m excited for you and your husband for this year too! : )

  427. Christina on December 29, 2015 at 6:41 pm

    Already getting into the powersheets! looking forward to this year and lots of amazing things.

  428. Nichole Young on December 29, 2015 at 6:53 pm

    I cannot wait to start on preparing for 2016!! I love these tidbits and guides you’ve posted.

  429. Laura on December 29, 2015 at 6:56 pm

    2015 was a tough year, I’m not unhappy to see it go. haha. But in spite of hard losses this year, I am grateful for a Faithful Sovereign God who continues to strengthen and heal hurting hearts and for physical healing.

  430. Callie Davis on December 29, 2015 at 7:06 pm

    I am so excited for the addition to your sweet little family coming in March! Thank you as always for sharing your heart for making what matters happen! Happy New Year!

  431. Tanya on December 29, 2015 at 7:12 pm

    I am super excited about this series. Your book was life changing. I am looking forward to only good things in 2016!

  432. Katie B on December 29, 2015 at 7:14 pm

    I would love a chance to win any of these things! Looking forward to kicking off an awesome 2016!

  433. Sabe on December 29, 2015 at 7:23 pm

    Thank you so much for your openness. It has really encouraged me to do some soul searching and prayer.

  434. Kristen on December 29, 2015 at 7:32 pm

    I am so excited to get my hands on a set of powersheets!! Very excited to be so organized and focused on the most important things for my life and not the distractions and unimportant things that we fill our time with. Thank you so much for creating- wish there were more to buy!

  435. Kendyll on December 29, 2015 at 7:37 pm

    Jumped into my PowerSheets this morning! Looking forward to new depths with the Lord as 2016 unfolds!

  436. Shandon on December 29, 2015 at 7:47 pm

    Perfect timing! Thank you! <3

  437. Katylee on December 29, 2015 at 7:49 pm

    I’m so happy to be introduced to your book and products! I can’t wait for 2016 and all it has to offer!

  438. Shandon on December 29, 2015 at 7:52 pm

    My friend and client’s father has been battling cancer and just underwent surgery this morning. I’ve been texting her here and there with encouraging words. Just sent another with my prayers for his recovery. <3

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 10:47 pm

      Sending prayers to them right now. You are a great friend!

  439. Taylor on December 29, 2015 at 8:05 pm

    Super excited about this year and change. Hmm maybe change will be my focus

  440. Tara on December 29, 2015 at 8:27 pm

    I started using PowerSheets with a Junior League group and have been blown away by the community who have embraced this path toward goal setting! What an inspiration!

  441. Chloe on December 29, 2015 at 8:29 pm

    Congratulations on your adoption! T his is such a great post. We could all use a reminder that we don’t need to do more in less time, we need to less and use our time on more worthwhile things!

  442. Tasha on December 29, 2015 at 8:34 pm

    The Lord has used you in my life mightily since I found your blog just yesterday. I’ve been parched, drowning in the tail end of an intensive degree program and really needed something to revive my soul before the semester begins next week. I love how God brings help when we call out. Bless you!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 8:37 pm

      Amen, Tasha! It’s great to meet you here!

  443. Sallie on December 29, 2015 at 8:42 pm

    Thank you for this chance to win this giveaway! I am loving the Powersheets.

  444. Lyn on December 29, 2015 at 9:16 pm

    I work with people with autism. This is a gift God gave me at birth. Recently the school where I have worked for the past twenty years has undergone some changes. Not for the better. It’s hard to understand why money must get in the way of making sure the students get what they really need but unfortunately money seems to be more important than the students we serve. We haven’t gotten any raises in 8 years, our health care benefits have decreased and enrollment is at an all time low. Morale is pretty much non existent. The students feed off us and our emotions and that can make life difficult. I have always been the “cheerleader” who tried to make things seem better but it’s been difficult. I just finished reading a book by John C. Maxwell, Encouragement changes everything. I hope and pray that if I can brighten even just one of my fellow staff, it might have a domino effect. It’s difficult when some of us know what is ultimately going to happen (the school will fold) but we need to try to do the best for the students we serve. And it’s important to be sincere when offering encouragement. It can’t just be hollow words. Please pray for my students and fellow staff this year!

  445. Julia on December 29, 2015 at 9:20 pm

    Just what I need and exactly when I need it, looking forward to the series!

  446. Courtney Kirkland on December 29, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    I have to admit, when I got my copy of your book, I started working through it and it TERRIFIED ME. What if I fail? What if I let people down? Your site, your blog and (most recently) your Periscopes have provided so much encouragement and support even from so far away. Excited to join in the 2016 challenge. I’m leaving FEAR behind.

  447. Tiffany Zajas on December 29, 2015 at 9:24 pm

    I always love your goal setting series! Such an inspiration!

  448. Jillian Wright on December 29, 2015 at 9:27 pm

    What an inspiring post! I am so unorganized and have always kind of let that define me. My husband Geoff gave me powersheets for a Christmas gift and I am so excited to use them as a tool to help me become more intentional about how I use my time.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 10:47 pm

      Yay for your sweet husband, and your year ahead!

  449. Courtney Kirkland on December 29, 2015 at 9:32 pm

    I hate talking about my pay it forward opportunities, but earlier today my husband and I were in the grocery store picking up a few things. There was a lady in front of us who had 5 children, the youngest only four months old. Even though I’d never met this woman, I had the deep sensation that I was supposed to pay for her groceries. When I asked her if she would mind if we paid for her things, she almost cried. I’ll probably never see her again, but it was obvious by the look on her face, that it was a bigger blessing than I could ever imagine.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 10:46 pm

      This is so encouraging!

  450. Misty on December 29, 2015 at 9:43 pm

    I’m grateful for the week I was so gracefully given to spend with my late aunt. So I could tell her just how much she meant to me before she passed away.

  451. Rachael on December 29, 2015 at 9:43 pm

    So inspiring, can’t wait to start!

  452. Abby C. on December 29, 2015 at 9:48 pm

    I have never been organized enough to successfully put a planner to good use, but in recent months I’ve been feeling the need to make some changes. To step forward and really push myself to step out of my boundaries and reach for the stars!

    My sister purchased the 2016 workbook and all it took was a quick flip-through for me to wonder if, perhaps, it was something that would work for me as well.

    Thank you for the very generous giveaway, and may your new year be filled with adventure and many blessings!

  453. Reynaul on December 29, 2015 at 9:50 pm

    This is an awesome giveaway!!!! I am working thru my 2016 power sheets now, so I am definitely excited for this series!!! Thank you for helping us make 2016 AWESOME!!!

  454. Mackenzie on December 29, 2015 at 10:07 pm

    Congratulations on being matched in your adoption! And thank you so much for these tools – I have loved digging into the Powersheets, and I am so grateful for the reminder that my goals and vision for the year can all be GRACE FILLED instead of rigid and trying to get it all “right.”

  455. Kayleen on December 29, 2015 at 10:11 pm

    Whew!! That was a lot to work through. The overlying theme for “how are you?” For me is that I’m just okay. In so many aspects of my life I have been living in autopilot for the last few months. I am so ready to be free from “just okay”
    What worked in 2015?
    -reading (almost) the entire Bible. I’m a few days behind but oh well! Digging deeper into the Word has made such a huge impact!!
    -The couple’s small group that my husband and I joined this last year.
    -celebrating! Big things like our daughter turning one and a new job for my husband as well as the little things.
    -simplifying our routines, my wardrobe, the “stuff” that we have, and our schedules so that we can really focus on what matters.
    -allowing myself/my life/our home to be imperfect and, at times, messy!
    -learning how to take the time to be creative again and allowing myself to follow the passions God has given me.
    Lessons?
    #1: my life take on a whole new look when I live firmly rooted in Christ.
    #2: there is so much FREEDOM in allowing things to be messy and imperfect.
    #3: God is fiercely faithful and will walk us through every situation he brings us to.

  456. Cathy on December 29, 2015 at 10:16 pm

    This is my favorite blog series of the year. I love reflecting on the past year and dreaming about the next year.

  457. Kristin on December 29, 2015 at 10:23 pm

    I have my PowerSheets and I’m so excited to dig into them! I’m ready to start making some purposeful goals. 🙂

  458. Savannah EK on December 29, 2015 at 10:25 pm

    Doing this again with my mom this year. Love our annual goal setting tradition!

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 10:46 pm

      I love it! Hugs to you and your mom!

  459. Adrianna on December 29, 2015 at 10:26 pm

    Thank you for this post! I’m ready to begin my 2016 goals!

  460. Naomi on December 29, 2015 at 10:28 pm

    I absolutely love your book and powersheets (and this series adds even more to them)! They have been such a blessing. I just worked through the section about what has and hasn’t been working, along with the lessons I learned, earlier today.
    A couple things that have been working:
    –letting go of the fear of rejection in creative and business goals–>going for it!
    –taking risks and moving forward even if I don’t have it all figured out
    –the months I did reflection and review at the end of the month
    Lessons learned:
    –Don’t just keep learning–take action!
    –Don’t wait until it’s perfect–take action!
    –Don’t be afraid of rejection–seek it out.

    A couple things that didn’t work:
    –staying focused, motivated, and accountable in the “messy middle” of projects and goals
    –the social media hamster wheel/mindless scrolling
    Lessons learned:
    –Keep showing up and doing the work, even when you don’t feel like it.
    –Know my core “why” (vision, mission, and values) and use it as a touchstone to stay focused.
    –Do fewer things, better.

  461. Elisabeth Carol on December 29, 2015 at 10:30 pm

    Love seeing the power sheets up close and personal!!! Motivated for some spring sheets!!

  462. Sabrina Stubblefield on December 29, 2015 at 10:33 pm

    Such a great post to help getting started on Power sheets!

  463. Emily Carson on December 29, 2015 at 10:35 pm

    Rejoicing in the tools you have created! Thanks!

  464. Dora on December 29, 2015 at 10:40 pm

    I’m just so excited to start this and prayerfully complete it!

  465. Jessica on December 29, 2015 at 10:43 pm

    This would be amazing to win!

  466. Ashley on December 29, 2015 at 10:43 pm

    This looks amazing Lara! I am so excited to get started with my power sheets !

  467. April on December 29, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    So excited!

  468. Marissa on December 29, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    I just started a new business this year and I would love all the help I can get. I would love to win!

  469. Christy on December 29, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    I just discovered your power sheets and Instagram! I plan on pre-ordering the power sheets as this coming year I definitely need so guidance!

  470. April on December 29, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    So Excited!!

  471. Christy on December 29, 2015 at 10:50 pm

    I texted my friend Becky some images that inspire me! I save images that speak to me and and them to friends. Thanks for the reminder to encourage!

  472. Melissa on December 29, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    Hoping I win the powersheets to gift to a friend!

  473. P.Jeanne on December 29, 2015 at 10:54 pm

    Hi Lara, I just wanted to pop in real quick and let you know I’m SO happy that I stumbled across you and your powersheets a couple of weeks ago. I had been searching for something to help me focus on what I want to accomplish next year and they couldn’t be more perfect! You have a beautiful heart…looking forward to hearing more from you ♡

  474. Cari on December 29, 2015 at 11:04 pm

    Looking forward to making it Happen !

  475. Kristin on December 29, 2015 at 11:04 pm

    I love this information. I’m currently working on my plans for 2016. This blog was perfectly timed for me as I’m partway through my own Annual Review.

  476. Aurelia Stratton on December 29, 2015 at 11:08 pm

    Sweet Lara! You and your family and team are going to have a wonderful 2016! May you be continue to keep your eyes on Christ and point others to Him in your work! Thank you!!

  477. Christy on December 29, 2015 at 11:12 pm

    I ordered my power sheets yesterday and I’m looking forward to getting started and making 2016 the best yet.

  478. Molly on December 29, 2015 at 11:12 pm

    I love this! Read Make It Happen earlier this year but never made it through part 4. Didn’t really think I was chasing perfection till God recently pinpointed in prayer how perfectionism is keeping me from doing some things I know I should be doing because I don’t know how to do them perfectly… This series is coming at a good time. Already worked through these first 3 steps and am anxious to get the power sheets I ordered in the mail!

  479. Ann Swindell on December 29, 2015 at 11:13 pm

    So thankful for you, Lara! I am using my Powersheets and am so thankful for your wisdom and insight!

  480. Ann Swindell on December 29, 2015 at 11:14 pm

    Also, I encouraged two friends by texting them and saying how grateful I am for them!

  481. Lindy on December 29, 2015 at 11:16 pm

    Love this!! Working on it now.

  482. Amanda on December 29, 2015 at 11:28 pm

    This will be my third year using power sheets, the never turns out how I write it out on my sheets. They help me see that it’s now about this big goals it’s about the foundation of what those goals is built on. The faith, hope and love behind the goals. I hope to win so I can gift these items to people who need encouragment and love!

  483. BethAnn on December 29, 2015 at 11:30 pm

    I wish these we not sold out. I am relatively new to my business and these would really help me out. I really wish I had the extra money to spend on these also. Have to save up and order early next year#

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:51 pm

      Grab a copy of my book and follow along here till then! : )

  484. Becca Z on December 29, 2015 at 11:33 pm

    I encouraged a friend after receiving 3 negative speak texts from her within 2 hours about her job and being at work that day. I called her and read her multiple verses promising that God will handle her cares, has given her peace, is fighting her battles, etc.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:50 pm

      Wow, this is wonderful! You are such an encouraging friend!

  485. Lauren D. on December 29, 2015 at 11:50 pm

    Congratulations on the adoption! When I first read your pregnancy and adoption announcement months ago, I had just found out that I was pregnant with our 2nd baby. Our first baby was not yet 4 months old. When I saw those 2 blue lines, I felt disbelief, excitement and then fear, in that order. Your post came just at the right time for me. My due date is just a few days after my son’s first birthday. I know things will be crazy, but in my life I have been shown over and over again how His plans are so much better than mine. And I know this time won’t be any different. Your posts have been so encouraging too. I can’t wait to read that you’ve brought your new daughter home. Congratulations and thank you for all that you share.

    • Lara on December 29, 2015 at 11:52 pm

      Ahhh! Congrats to you and I am praying alongside you as we both step into the beautiful mess!

  486. Lesley DeVaughn on December 29, 2015 at 11:56 pm

    What an amazing give away! Wow

  487. Micky on December 29, 2015 at 11:57 pm

    I really wish I had found you much sooner. But at least I was able to pre-order the PowerSheets. I am very excited and cannot wait to get started.

  488. Bethany on December 30, 2015 at 12:11 am

    I wrote so much, I’ll just add a few things here…

    I’m so excited for this series It’ll be my 3rd year following along (my 2nd with the book) and I can’t wait to do it again! Last year I began with so many ambitious ideas, but before January was over, I found out I was pregnant with our first child! Needless to say, my goals changed, and most of the year was spent in survival mode. At first I was a little disappointed with myself for giving up on so many of my initial goals. But my priorities and abilities changed, and now I realize, that’s OK. It was the hardest year of my life (morning sickness, summer pregnancies, childbirth, and newborn days are no joke!), but was still filled with so many sweet moments (I type this now with one hand, the other holding my nursing son!)

    Three lessons I learned:
    1. I can’t do it all on my own, and God wants me to embrace that, because it causes me to seek God’s strength and the help of others → humility. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” <3
    2. I can do more than I thought I can. I am strong enough in God’s grace to give birth without drugs. I can wake up every hour to feed a baby. I can do the dishes after dinner instead of being lazy. I can pursue my husband.
    3. Complaining, a negative attitude, and anger don’t produce fruit–they grow weeds!

    • Bethany on December 30, 2015 at 10:04 pm

      Didn’t realize I needed to post the entire thing to enter the giveaway.. Here goes! 🙂

      What are you chasing?
      This last year, I was simply chasing survival! See next question for why…

      How are you doing?
      I’m so excited for this series It’ll be my 3rd year following along (my 2nd with the book) and I can’t wait to do it again! Last year I began with so many ambitious ideas, but before January was over, I found out I was pregnant with our first child! Needless to say, my goals changed, and most of the year was spent in survival mode. At first I was a little disappointed with myself for giving up on so many of my initial goals. But my priorities and abilities changed, and now I realize, that’s OK. It was the hardest year of my life (morning sickness, summer pregnancies, childbirth, and newborn days are no joke!), but was still filled with so many sweet moments (I type this now with one hand, the other holding my nursing son!)

      So how am I? A bit tired. I am often overwhelmed. Fearful of not being able to make the changes in my life that I want to make. Fearful of my tendency toward laziness. Fearful of ending the year in the same place I began it.

      At the same time, I’m learning that even tiny steps are progress, and that God doesn’t call me to do all the things–He simply calls me to trust & obey. For me, the whole point of this goal setting is to be intentional about trusting & obeying Him more and more in each area, in each role of my life. And I’m excited for that. I’m excited to approach the year with a fresh perspective, a clean slate, and meaningful goals designed to bring Him glory. I pray that in this new year, I wouldn’t just try and survive, but that I would at least begin to plant little seeds of growth.

      I want to grow in intimacy with my husband, in deeper friendships with the women in my life, and nurture my new relationship with my baby as I care for him each day (and night!). I want to work harder and more faithfully in my part time job for my church. I want to be more careful with our spending as my husband completes student teaching and school to get his credential. I want to use my small talent for graphic design to bring in additional income to our family.

      What worked in 2015?
      My baby. 🙂 My precious husband. Pursing my relationship with my husband. Developing friendships with the other women in my church. Diligence and preparation. Our fun family trips to Disneyland, Oxnard, and Newport Beach. The love and care of our church family and our individual families. Organization. Our new pastor/my new boss. Snuggles with my son. Asking for help. Worship music. Taking a break from certain activities as we adjust to our new season. Day trips to the snow, Descanso Gardens, Dodger game, the pumpkin patch, the Huntington Library, Laguna Beach. Craft days with the youth group girls. Endless pool days. Falling asleep on the sand and waking up just in time to watch the sunset. Natasha, Taylor, Kimmy, and Jenna. Naps. Fresh flowers from my husband. Movie marathons with my husband. Thanksgiving morning at Descanso. A more relaxed Christmas season. The beach!
      Good things ahead:
      Owen is growing and learning more each day! It is so fun to watch,
      New year with new projects at the church.
      In September, celebrating 3 years of marriage and 1 year of parenting our little man!
      More time for developing friendships.
      More opportunities to love and serve my family through the crazy new seasons we are approaching.
      Summertime with a baby old enough to enjoy splashing in the pool.
      (Maybe) an Alaskan cruise!
      Thanksgiving in Newport Beach.
      Nana visiting in February.
      Birth of the Luepke’s baby.
      Lord willing, a full-time job for Scott in the fall!

      Three lessons I learned:
      I can’t do it all on my own, and God wants me to embrace that, because it causes me to seek God’s strength and the help of others → humility. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” <3
      I can do more than I thought I can. I am strong enough in God’s grace to give birth without drugs. I can wake up every hour to feed a baby. I can do the dishes after dinner instead of being lazy. I can pursue my husband.
      Complaining, a negative attitude, and anger don’t produce fruit–they grow weeds!

  489. Katie Wilkin on December 30, 2015 at 12:11 am

    I’ve had my eye on these sheets and never was able to pull the trigger to buy. This is amazing! My biggest goal is to turn my childhood cacer foundation that I started in my daughter’s name into an official non profit in 2016. She passed away this February, and although it is the hardest thing I have ever been through, I’m honored to be able to carry her memory forward and help other families facing this same journey.

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 12:26 am

      What an inspiring mom you are, Katie! May God give you the courage, resources, and peace as you help many others through this special non-profit!

  490. Natalie Smucker on December 30, 2015 at 12:20 am

    I am so grateful for you being vulnerable and honestly sharing all that you do. I just turned 31 and this is my first year using PowerSheets and working on reading through Make it Happen. Also, Congratulations on the adoption!! My husband and I struggle with infertility and this as been something we have considered. We were blessed to have our son 4 years ago with the help of God and doctors. Praying for your family and the adoption family in this process. 2016 is going to be a good year!!!

  491. Bethany on December 30, 2015 at 12:23 am

    I took the opportunity to encourage a friend of mine, Kimmy. She is newly pregnant with her first child as well, and she and her husband have been such great friends to us. The first trimester can be so rough (all of pregnancy can be!) but it’s so sweet to see them begin this new season and join us in parenthood, and I hope I’m able to encourage her with the little tidbits I picked up on my own this year!

  492. Ali on December 30, 2015 at 12:27 am

    Really loved reading this inspiring blog post and have never wanted to win a giveaway so badly in my life! 2015 was a hard year with my husband and I dealing with infertility. I am hoping for a fresh and joyful 2016 while I continue my journey to motherhood and so much more!

  493. Chamir on December 30, 2015 at 12:31 am

    2015 has been the hardest year of my life. I lost my mom to sudden illness. Your tools kept popping up in my life. I got the book this morning. I can’t wait as the series unfolds. Thank you for living this journey.

  494. Jennifer on December 30, 2015 at 12:32 am

    So much goodness here! Power Sheets are delivered in California but I’m stuck here in the Midwest due to flight cancellations! I feel behind already! I’m reading the book and trying to journal along! SO many goals for this next year that I know I need to prioritize! Thanks for this post and I can’t wait for the next! Congratulations on your adoption!

  495. Katie Wilkin on December 30, 2015 at 12:35 am

    Today I encouraged my husband. I know it sounds simple and maybe cliche but in this season of our life, he really needed it. He is not able to work right now die to having both feet operated on this month, and money is becoming a big area of stress. I know he feels like he is letting us down and worried that he won’t be able to provide, but we always find a way. I’m proud of him for everything he does, and he just needed to hear it from me. This too shall pass!

  496. Jennifer on December 30, 2015 at 12:41 am

    Encouraging friends by sending them a postcard while I’m on vacation letting them know I’m thinking of them! ❤️

  497. Melissa G on December 30, 2015 at 12:53 am

    I have recently came to understand that I have allowed fear to be the driving force for my life since having my first child 13 years ago. Fear of failure, fear of regret, fear of loss, fear of judgement, fear of everything. This is my year to break free from this fear and re-engage. I am doing nothing more than putting up obstacles to all the plans that God has for my life. Thank you for your blog post. I am honestly not sure how I found you, but I did. I asked for your Powersheets for a Christmas gift and am beyond excited to get started with them. Happy New Year!

  498. Tiffany on December 30, 2015 at 12:58 am

    I found this community just a few weeks ago (through Emily Ley) and I must admit that I’ve had my PowerSheets and other goal setting documents sitting in front of me for two weeks, but I’m so afraid of not doing everything perfectly that they sit here, untouched. Thank you so much for your openness and vulnerability in sharing your purposeful journey with us!

  499. Tiffany on December 30, 2015 at 1:21 am

    Encouraging someone: I texted a friend (newly married, newly pregnant, newly unemployed) to remind her of all her wonderful qualities and that God has a plan for in this season(s) and to tell her she is loved. 🙂

  500. Yvette Farrell on December 30, 2015 at 1:24 am

    I’m so intrigued by your goal setting program.

  501. Cristal Rodriguez on December 30, 2015 at 1:43 am

    I’m so happy I found these powersheets ! I just came across it on someone’s IG page. My goal for this year is to find balance!

  502. Lisa on December 30, 2015 at 2:07 am

    What a blessing you are and your generosity is inspiring,thank you sooo much !

  503. Brooke Scharrer on December 30, 2015 at 2:12 am

    Looking forward to my best year yet in 2016 thanks to the help of PowerSheets!!

  504. Jen on December 30, 2015 at 2:13 am

    I don’t have the power sheets sets but I am so excited to follow along with you Lara. Thank you for doing this. Thank you for offering such a gracious giveaway as well. God bless you and your family.

  505. Jen on December 30, 2015 at 2:16 am

    I’m ready! Thanks so much!

  506. Abby on December 30, 2015 at 2:16 am

    I’m a young professional struggling with anxiety and feeling lost in my career. Your book Make it Happen led me to your blog and I visit it often for reminders of what it means to truly let go. I’m praying that God will guide me in 2016 and help me to give control up to Him. Thank you for the work you are doing to help women live their best lives!

  507. Melissa on December 30, 2015 at 2:32 am

    Thank you so much for the push to set goals for 2016. As a mom of three, I am usually the last person I think about. Thanks for challenging me to really look at my life and set new goals and priorities for a new year!!

  508. Kendra on December 30, 2015 at 2:34 am

    You came along along in my life life a fresh breeze blowing in the middle of a parched and dry life. I cannot thank you enough for all of your hard work, encouragement and love that you pour into your work, which in turn pours into all of us! You are a blessing and the hands and feet of Jesus. <3

  509. Lana Ross on December 30, 2015 at 2:36 am

    This is a very generous giveaway! Thank you for the opportunity to win some goodies 🙂

  510. Lana Ross on December 30, 2015 at 2:37 am

    Also, I sent a text of encouragement to my daughter who is studying for her driver’s test!

  511. Kendra on December 30, 2015 at 2:40 am

    I decided for my ‘encourage somone’ entry that I would contact my sister. She lives about an hour and fifteen minutes from me. She is single and lives with her 18 year old son. She’s been pretty lonely lately so I decided to call her and tell her I was picking her up tomorrow and we were going to spend the day together: her choice. <3

  512. Cathleen W. on December 30, 2015 at 2:43 am

    Thanks for sharing your life and journey with us. I would love to do the challenge and make things happen. I appreciate you being obedient to God and blessing me in the process. Thanks for your example. I hope I can do the same.

  513. Temme on December 30, 2015 at 2:50 am

    Looking forward to making it happen in 2016

  514. Amanda @ Two Blue Pillars on December 30, 2015 at 2:53 am

    I didn’t get a chance to grab the Powersheets before they sold out (hint: I’d love to win that prize!) but I’ve been using the excerpts on the site and I feel like my goals are stronger than ever!

  515. Jess Wolstenholm on December 30, 2015 at 3:07 am

    So excited to dig into my 2016 Power Sheets! It’s gonna be a great year!

  516. Lindsey on December 30, 2015 at 3:09 am

    I have recently started following you and you are such an inspiration. I have listened to your story on Jess Lively’s podcast and just love your heart for God and for sharing Him and how each of us can make a difference in this world. Thanks!

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 11:58 am

      I’m so grateful the podcast encouraged you!

  517. Jess Wolstenholm on December 30, 2015 at 3:09 am

    Texted a friend who’s been going through some transition this year. Sounds like she’s excited about what 2016 has in store for her too!

  518. Becky Brunner on December 30, 2015 at 3:13 am

    I need this more than you know. You inspire me so much! I am praying for 2016 to be my year to shine! I quit my job to figure out what I really want to do.
    It is very scary, yet exciting. I would love to expand my Choose Happy business & blog, but the financial aspect scares me. I would love to win items from this giveaway to give me the extra boost to make my dreams & goals come true. I want to help the world follow their arrow & Choose Happy!

  519. Rachael on December 30, 2015 at 3:17 am

    This is so awesome and I’m so grateful for all of the encouragement that you bring to others. It’s rare to find someone who actually lives out their faith and you do just that, Lara. Thank you for being such a bright light for Jesus.

  520. rylie on December 30, 2015 at 3:18 am

    so great!

  521. Rachael on December 30, 2015 at 3:19 am

    So excited for 2016!

  522. Rachael on December 30, 2015 at 3:27 am

    I texted my mom to let her know she’s loved and appreciated. 🙂

  523. Cheryl on December 30, 2015 at 3:39 am

    I encouraged a friend who I just found out is going through a difficult divorce. I told her how much I love her and that I’m praying with her and for her.

  524. Kesha Cagle on December 30, 2015 at 3:47 am

    I just recently learned of you and your blog/business. I am so excited to catch up on all you’ve shared. Thank you!!

  525. Kesha Cagle on December 30, 2015 at 3:54 am

    Encouraged my husband for how we will set goals in 2016 as a family. Started a good conversation. Thanks!

  526. Stephanie Clase on December 30, 2015 at 3:57 am

    I missed out on the Workbook and now the Powersheets 🙁 Super bummed but fingers crossed I entered the giveaway!

  527. Laura Burnettq on December 30, 2015 at 4:28 am

    So excited about this! 2015 was a year of major transitions and I am grateful to have the opportunity to reflect and plan with all the wonderful women on here! Cheers to 2016!

  528. Laurel on December 30, 2015 at 4:42 am

    I love your beautiful fresh look at goal setting and living purposefully. A good resource. Laurel

  529. Bex on December 30, 2015 at 4:47 am

    God’s timing is perfect. Coming across your blog and reading this post can right when I needed some encouragement. That whole striving for perfection and failing because I’m so imperfect.
    I’m hoping to have thave chance to participate in this goal setting as a new year starts. And I’m hoping for another blessing from an on time God to be a winner since my finances might not allow me to purchase sheets /books

  530. Annie on December 30, 2015 at 5:00 am

    Loving everything about this!

  531. Rachel on December 30, 2015 at 5:05 am

    I emailed a friend who is going through some health and life challenges. Hope I encouraged her in her struggles.

  532. Tyra on December 30, 2015 at 5:11 am

    wonderful post. I’m ready to get started with 2016 planning!

  533. Sabrina on December 30, 2015 at 5:12 am

    Wow, so much goodness in these questions. What have I been chasing? In my business (just passed my 1 year since starting my business/photography). I have definitely been comparing myself to some of my favorite photographers, and definitely some amazing photographers on instagram. I want to be as good as them – now. It was tough to not compare myself, which is definitely a priority for 2016!

  534. Sabrina on December 30, 2015 at 5:14 am

    I messaged a friend going through some stressful things the past couple weeks. Hoping to connect with her in person soon!

  535. Michele on December 30, 2015 at 5:35 am

    Very inspiring! Can’t wait for 2016!

  536. Kelsie on December 30, 2015 at 5:39 am

    Thank you for doing this series Lara! Praying for y’all & your sweet new baby girl!

  537. Rachael on December 30, 2015 at 5:39 am

    I am so motivated for 2016 and I have encouraged some of my blogger friends to group together and stay on track. We will be taking part in the #fiveminutefriday link up. Every Friday you write a blog post for 5 minutes- no edits just write! A great way to blog more often.

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 11:56 am

      I love that idea!!!

  538. Miranda Joy Turpin on December 30, 2015 at 6:04 am

    My sister just turned me onto your blog. I’m really excited to take some time tomorrow to put some of these exercises into practice.

  539. Abbey Smith on December 30, 2015 at 6:19 am

    Magical!! I love this giveaway!!

  540. Victoria on December 30, 2015 at 6:43 am

    This is so great!

  541. Victoria on December 30, 2015 at 6:44 am

    I wrote a letter to my sister that just started basic training for encouragement!

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 11:57 am

      So great! And I’m so proud of your sister!

  542. Jackie Rice on December 30, 2015 at 12:22 pm

    I love this yearly goal-setting series. It’s a great way to move into the year with intention.

  543. Sarah Fox on December 30, 2015 at 12:38 pm

    Thanks for the opportunity!

  544. nikol sanchez on December 30, 2015 at 12:44 pm

    I loved reading Make It Happen and put it on my IVF Book Club reading list. I normally pass on my books once read but I kept Make it Happen to read again and again. I practically highlighted the entire book 🙂 Looking forward to your next book.

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 1:43 pm

      I’m so grateful you were encouraged!

  545. April Stegeman on December 30, 2015 at 1:11 pm

    New Year’s Resolutions combined with my tendency towards perfectionistic thinking have destroyed my motivation and goals. I also know that these destructive thinking patterns have hindered me from accomplishing what God has set before me and allowed me to participate.

    This year I am choosing to remove those pressures and destructive thinking patterns. I am choosing one word to represent my year – to remind me of my convictions – to push me closer to God – to help me accomplish much in 2016. I’m still working on that word, but am excited to pray through it and see where God is leading.

  546. Jessica on December 30, 2015 at 2:10 pm

    Lara, I love this and am so grateful for your transparency with us! It is such an encouragement to be able to know that we are not alone in our struggles.

  547. Christine Ewert on December 30, 2015 at 2:38 pm

    Interesting stuff here. I’m rather fearful of the process, but I believe such planning would be good for me.

  548. Lee Ann Markham on December 30, 2015 at 2:52 pm

    I have just discovered Lara Casey in the last couple of days and I am super excited to start this process with you. I have two young children and want to be my best for them and my husband. I am looking forward to working through it!

  549. Cheryl majcen on December 30, 2015 at 2:58 pm

    I have my Starbucks in hand and sent a sweet message to my cousin Alexis!!! She is a rockstar new Mommy and I am so thankful for her 🙂 Thank you Lara Casey for this opportunity!!!

  550. Allison B. on December 30, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    Lara, you truly are a blessing to my life! You are a Light in this world, and it’s amazing how many women (and men!) you touch daily. Your book and PowerSheets have helped me rediscover myself and nourish my relationship with God. Thanks for all that you do.

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 3:08 pm

      Thank you for this kind encouragement!

  551. Danielle Cevallos on December 30, 2015 at 3:09 pm

    I just went through my Powersheets and am excited about the coming year! Thanks so much for your generous giveaway! And…on a side note, I think Women of the Word is a foundational read for every believing woman! I am so glad to see that you have included it in this package! Equipping women to study God’s word on their own is so important, and that book does such a good job of doing that! Yay, for whoever wins it!!

  552. Allison B. on December 30, 2015 at 3:13 pm

    Oops, I forgot to add how I encouraged someone! A lady I work with has been feeling down about herself, so I put together a little packet of some of your writing and prints to encourage her. 🙂

  553. Teia Collier on December 30, 2015 at 3:38 pm

    This comes at the right time when amazing shifts and changes are happening. I love having the Powersheets to get prepped, centered and reconnected to the things that matter to me and my family.

  554. DIANA GARCIA on December 30, 2015 at 3:40 pm

    This series is amazing and I am sharing this with my close friends and people I meet. I am viewing life differently and finally letting god handle things. I broke up with my sons father 4 years ago, one year after giving birth. My relationship went downhill quickly with fights and miscarriages. I prayed everyday for things to get better however, I was not really letting god handle it. After the break up I was devastated and prayed that god will help him change for me to grow and change. 3 years later we are back together and planning our future, we didn’t rush back and he doesn’t push me away from my faith and is much more supporting. God’s timing is perfect.

  555. DIANA GARCIA on December 30, 2015 at 3:45 pm

    I must add that this series has helped me to re focus and get back to nursing school. I am “making it happen” I might be looking for another employment to finish school but trust that god has control and his plans are better. I am very motivated with this! We can all make it happen!!

  556. Michelle Bills on December 30, 2015 at 3:51 pm

    STEP ONE: What have you been chasing? I feel like for so long I have just been trying to keep up, to not drown in it all. Most of the time I feel like I’m failing. There’s just too much to do and not enough time or resources.
    STEP TWO: How are you? Tired, worn out, empty, heartbroken.
    STEP THREE: What worked in 2015? 2015 was a doozy! I lost my dear cat, two babies both in my second trimesters, and my mom. I am heartbroken and overwhelmed by loss. It was also a year of my children being sick for six months straight. Seriously every single week we had one or both kids at the pediatricians office. It tapped out our bank account, vacation time, and boss’ patience. My oldest also started kindergarten and after months and months of prayer (and stress that led to shingles) we decided that the neighborhood school was not a good fit and we put her in a private school. It’s a struggle to pay every month, but I know it’s where she is supposed to be. A doozy! However, what worked well was prayer and going to Jesus. He’s my best friend and after this year I absolutely know that there is no way I can get through this life without Him. I am constantly talking to Him, constantly crying out or even laughing with Him (sometimes just laughing at the absurdity of everything with Him). I myself could not have made 2015 better, I worked and worried and grieved so hard that I made myself sick. I do know; however, that I should have gone to Jesus sooner. I should have made Him my number one best friend at the beginning of the year…years ago. He carried me through this year and rained down small blessings.
    I must say though, I am at an absolute loss for 2016. I’m so tired, worn out, and I have no idea what I can do differently. Pray constantly, rely on Jesus, and keep hugging my babies… that’s all I’ve got.

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 6:50 pm

      Michelle, I’m so sorry for your loses this year. What a challenging path you’ve walked, my friend. And though it all, God has increased your faith. I am encouraged by you! Thank you for sharing and I am praying for your continued healing and strength as you move into this new year.

  557. Kim R on December 30, 2015 at 3:58 pm

    I love the new printable & goal-setting theme!

  558. lorette on December 30, 2015 at 4:11 pm

    hi…i just stumbled upon your website in searching for ways to really make some life changes, spiritually happy changes! what a great sharing of being involved and consciously aware of the many ways to make change, not only for myself, but the community and our world…thank you!

  559. Lorin Fairweather on December 30, 2015 at 4:13 pm

    This is SO good, Lara!! I look forward to your goal-setting series each year! Thank you for opening your heart and sharing with us how you make it happen, with the Lord’s help 🙂

  560. Rhonda Quaney on December 30, 2015 at 4:15 pm

    The pages of my new, one-year planner, are taking shape. I’ve used Powersheets for some time but long to take it to a new level this year! I tend to start well and lose my focus! I really like this new format.

    Today I’m meeting with a friend to pray for their adoption. They leave in {{two weeks}} to travel to China. We only began praying last fall for this adoption. God is so, so awesome!!!

  561. Molly on December 30, 2015 at 4:15 pm

    Wow! What a fun giveaway! All of these great items would be a great start to 2016 and making what matters happen!

  562. Michelle Bock on December 30, 2015 at 4:15 pm

    Just seen a friend post on her powersheetings and was curious. I LOVE this idea! Can’t wait to get my own and get started.

  563. Victoria B on December 30, 2015 at 4:18 pm

    I am always chasing the perfect thing to say. I think way too long before I speak. I am just afraid of being seen as less than perfect or less than professional or not smart. So oftentimes, I don’t say anything at all. It makes me feel like I don’t have any friends and nobody wants to hang out with me. It makes me feel like I am not funny or a good storyteller, so I just don’t say much.
    I loved those questions for the How Are You? section. I have some really great areas and some not so strong areas. I am feeling good with my physical space as I did a lot of de-cluttering this year using the KonMari method. My marriage and family relationships have definitely grown stronger this year and are better than ever. My friendships are weak and I would love to grow them better next year. My financial health is ok. There are a lot of expenses coming up in the new year which is a major stressor for me, but my husband and I are going to be focusing on saving in the new year. We have a great budget sheet we are going to work through to cut back on the overwhelming feeling I have. Physically I am doing awesome. Self-care was a huge goals for me this year and I absolutely accomplished it. Work is very conflicted for me and I think that is what is holding me back from being excited about setting my goals. 2015 was a lot of fun. I turned 30 and felt so loved on my birthday, even while I was working. We took an awesome and refreshing vacation to Spain and Portugal. We also finally went to Epcot Food & Wine Festival. My husband lost 65 pounds and has maintained it since September, which is such a big win for us both! So much good stuff, but those are the big ones.

  564. Melissa on December 30, 2015 at 4:28 pm

    Can’t wait for 2016. This post was just what I needed to get started TODAY! 🙂

  565. Ashley HH King on December 30, 2015 at 4:29 pm

    So excited to dive in!

  566. Andrea Friesen on December 30, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    This giveaway would be such an encouragement!

  567. Maribel on December 30, 2015 at 4:37 pm

    Thanks so much for the giveaway!

  568. Ashley HH King on December 30, 2015 at 4:51 pm

    Reconnecting with a friend from high school by attempting to encourage her through a rough time right now. Praying for her and trying to encourage through sincere words, NOT cliches!

  569. Lisa Gilbert on December 30, 2015 at 5:13 pm

    Last year I discovered the concept of One Word, and I instantly connected with it. I’ve never been a big resolution girl as I feel like resolutions don’t actually have a whole lot of resolve behind them, and as a result they usually don’t last very long. This past year’s One Word was “dare,” and I really felt like I lived it out thanks to careful goal setting and then just experiencing life. I graduated with my Masters, moved somewhere new, started a new job, adopted a furever friend I’ve named Sawyer (she’s the most beautiful pup in the world), and tried to successfully “adult,” whatever that means.

    As I’ve started looking ahead to 2016, I’ve searched inside a lot to figure out what I want my One Word to be for the upcoming year; what I want to be my cornerstone for moving forward through the next year of life. After a lot of reflecting and talking with my best friend, I’ve landed on “fortitude.” There are a lot of steps I want to take this next year, but some of them are big and scary and I know for a fact that they won’t be easy steps to take. Hopefully by making “fortitude” my One Word, I’ll consistently be reminded to move forward, regardless.

    That being said, here’s what I wrote out for my steps!:
    Step 1: I’ve been chasing perfection. Being perfect at my new job, being perfect at “being a grown up,” trying to have a perfect life (materially), and trying to cultivate a perception of that perfection. And all this has mean that I feel like a failure and that I’m not good enough. But most of all it has resulted in a lot of STRESS.
    Step 2: I’m TIRED. Stress and worry and trying to survive and just managing to scrape by are EXHAUSTING. I don’t fully understand how to really “adult” (for instance, finances? I’m lost somewhere in my understanding of being financially stable and how to save and what’s important and it’s SO OVERWHELMING!). Overall, I just end up with this feeling of continually wanting to do better, and being too tired to do so.
    Steph 3: Since this was a period of “new” for me, asking questions worked. Working out resulting in a whole bunch of healthier-ness (mentally, physically, emotionally). Having a dog to talk to helped with that as well. Plus using mom as a sounding board is always helpful. I also took a lot of time this year to reflect and reconnect with members of my “community.” I read a lot of books: some new and some old favorites. And when I could remember to put my phone down (and the computer and the iPad) that worked, too.
    I learned that worry is fruitless; I need Jesus, church, and the community that results from both; people are willing to help if you ask for it; dogs are the BEST; a good night’s sleep does WONDERS for the soul and the heart and the mind; I don’t always have to be in control for things to work out; pride doesn’t do any of us (including, or especially, me) any good; every penny counts; listing to fear isn’t helpful; looking inward and upward more would have helped prevent a lot of headaches (and heartaches, too).

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 6:48 pm

      Oh, Lisa! I loved reading all of this. I love your word, your insightful heart, and the leaps of faith you’ve already taken! Thank you for encouraging me, and many here I’m sure! I’m excited to follow along with your thoughts on the next posts : )

  570. Whitney on December 30, 2015 at 5:19 pm

    i can’t wait to dig in and set my 2016 goals!

  571. Emily Martin on December 30, 2015 at 5:24 pm

    I’ve been working on encouraging others through sending cards this week, randomly texting friends, and participating in the FB Powersheets group!

  572. Ashley Williams on December 30, 2015 at 5:33 pm

    Stumbled across this today, awesome!

  573. Connie on December 30, 2015 at 5:35 pm

    I spent the morning going through my calendar making a year in review list and I’m feeling so happy and blessed with how full my life is.

  574. chelsea cote on December 30, 2015 at 5:35 pm

    i just received the make it happen book and my first set of powersheets for christmas, and i’m so amazed by the blessing that they are already becoming in my life! this book feels like it was written for me – i’m always overwhelmed and stressed and i’m excited to make some changes in 2016. thank you for writing this book and working to empower women like me!

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 6:44 pm

      Yay, I’m excited for you!

  575. Z Smith on December 30, 2015 at 5:48 pm

    Ready for a great 2016. Thank you for all the faith filled encouragement and I am loving the Powersheets!!!

  576. Shannon on December 30, 2015 at 6:16 pm

    I feel so lucky to have found you. This is a way to approach life more powerfully than I could have imagined (all without loosing perspective that He’s in control, not me). THANK YOU!

  577. Michelle Kiedinger on December 30, 2015 at 6:26 pm

    I got the Powersheets and I am so excited! Looking forward to what the Lord will do with my life in 2016!

  578. Andrea on December 30, 2015 at 6:47 pm

    This is such a great post! Wonderful ideas to journal, letting go of the past year and welcoming in the new one–thank you!!

  579. Beverly V on December 30, 2015 at 7:49 pm

    I’ve been putting off starting this process this year because I am fearful. I fear not reaching my goals. I fear disappointment. I fear being behind… But since there is no fear in love (and I want to grow in love)… I am BEGINNING. Here. Imperfectly at comment #633 on your blog 🙂 But I hope it encourages others after me to JUMP right on in too, and share their hearts. Because the truth is that it is never too late. Ever! Change is possible. Always!

    So, what have I been chasing?
    This year, I have chased personal expectations, the “shoulds” of perfectionism, so many worldly things, and the outcomes (instead of the process). Chasing these things has left me feeling mentally and emotionally exhausted. And empty. So empty. Because these chases are worthless. (1 Samuel 12:21) Naming these chases reminds me where my focus needs to be – on God, on growth in the process, on eternal things. And they remind me that I desperately need (and I am grateful for) His grace that perfectly washes over me, even and especially when I don’t feel I deserve it.
    How am I?
    I am hopeful and overwhelmed. Overwhelmed but knowing that I need to trust Him more. Hopeful because I KNOW He wants to do good things through this process and growth season.
    What worked in 2015?
    – Reading through the whole bible with my husband (only 8 chapters left, but more importantly growing in the Word with him.)
    – Intentional and consistent budgeting. God has provided for us in so many ways financially. But we are also learning to become better stewards with our money.
    – Bible studies and community.
    Lessons from what worked:
    1. God is good and faithful. He is always working.
    2. Sharing my heart and what I am learning about God is good, so good, and life-giving.
    3. Facing the hard stuff (i.e. $$ talks) creates a way to grow, to let go of fear, and to feel more peace.
    Good things ahead?
    My husband and I are celebrating our 5-year anniversary this year! After 6000+ miles worth of moving (cross country moves really shake up my heart), we are staying, rooting, grounding where we are right now. It is so wonderful to come to this place of celebration – of our marriage and of building and growing stronger right where we are.

    Lara, I will be prayerful over your adoption process. (Intentional Prayer is one of my goals this year!) Thank you for your words of light and truth, and for these goal setting exercises. I’m timid yet hopeful to begin my Workbook. But I re-read your book recently, and beginning here is good and encouraging.
    Praying for the courage to make good things happen this year!

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 8:20 pm

      I am so encouraged by you, Beverly!! Amen, sister! And thank you for your generous prayers. We are grateful!

  580. Keri on December 30, 2015 at 8:23 pm

    I’m so excited to come across your site. I love this! I’ve always had trouble actually writing down my goals and sticking to them but I know how important it is to do. Just by writing them down you are much more likely to achieve them. In this upcoming year I need to let go of fear and worry in all areas of my life and trust God more!

  581. Miranda Joy Turpin on December 30, 2015 at 8:45 pm

    I believe that this past year I’ve been chasing Security. Security in my relationships and in my finances. I’ve been working and striving to make a safe place for myself and it’s been hard for me to even keep my head above water in that pursuit. This next year I need to remind myself that God is my strong tower and in Him I find rest. God has good things for me in my relationships and finances, He is creating a safe place for me. It’s not something I have to chase down. I am secure in Him already.

  582. keila on December 30, 2015 at 8:46 pm

    There is NOTHING like God-centric planning ! I love how God encourages us to DREAM BIG and then SURRENDER those dreams to Him, so that he can do even more than what we ever thought ! Thank you to all the awesome creators and Lara a special thanks to you for this awe-mazing giveaway !

  583. Tosin Akande on December 30, 2015 at 9:04 pm

    Wow Lara. I got your book as a New Year’s gift in 2015, but I must say that the impact your book has had on me has been so intense in the last few months when i did hit rock bottom. 2015 indeed was a scary bumpy carriage. I am so grateful for the Powersheets. Wow. It is changing my life and helping me to focus in what i struggled with the most in 2015 – my marriage. And I can already see the difference.

    And I just want to thank God for the grace and wisdom to turn down seemingly great opportunites. All I can say is wow. I pray that God gives me the grace to focus on what matters. Thanks for being a great example. And I will be praying for you and your family.

  584. Carley on December 30, 2015 at 9:14 pm

    My word!! I love this so much! I’m actually going to bookmark it and come back to it. (Is that weird?)

  585. Carley on December 30, 2015 at 9:14 pm

    Aaaaaand just texted a friend! (One of my favorite ways to encourage!)

  586. Natalie on December 30, 2015 at 10:56 pm

    You are so encouraging!

  587. Bj Mandelstam on December 30, 2015 at 11:02 pm

    I’ve existed on shallow breaths. Short sips of air, just enough to move me through life. A few weeks ago I was walking up several flights of stairs, taking shallow breaths when my son called. I felt like I didn’t have enough air to walk and talk. (BTW this isn’t a metaphor.) I had an epiphany approaching the 4th floor. I need to breathe to live. This Christmas I started to breathe again. Great big, belly inflating inhales. Focusing on my breathe opened my mind to my truth. So much of my life has pulled me away from my truth. 2016 is my year to prune, feed my soul, and breathe deeply, making space for my growth. Thanks.

    • Lara on December 30, 2015 at 11:19 pm

      Wow I’m so glad you are okay, and here’s to a year of big full breaths!

  588. Susan Ashlock on December 31, 2015 at 12:26 am

    Happy New Years everyone! I wish I would have known about this book/planner before the yearly ones sold out! I would love you read your book and use this book/planner to help me have an awesome 2016!

  589. Laura on December 31, 2015 at 1:57 am

    What a beautiful series. I’m enjoying getting started and really setting myself up for the new year with intention.

  590. Dejah on December 31, 2015 at 2:04 am

    Just what I needed to hear after having a tumbling down year!

  591. Nicole on December 31, 2015 at 2:10 am

    I feel like I’m in an odd spot in life – probably opposite of many of you! I’m a SAHM that needs something that will breathe life back into me. I don’t have enough going on, and I’ve neglected myself. I loved step 2 – how are you doing? It was a great question for me to really dig into how am I doing in relationships, health, and work. It made me realize how I need to nourish myself and not just my family. Excited to get my power sheets this spring!

  592. Jess on December 31, 2015 at 2:13 am

    What a delight your book has been in the journey of last year…

  593. Amanda L. Paige on December 31, 2015 at 2:25 am

    I’m excited for 2016. I am unemployed and pursuing taking my part time gig into a full time biz.

  594. Becca on December 31, 2015 at 2:46 am

    I’m brand new to this blog/idea of Powersheets, but excited to dig in! Thank you for all the hard work and thought that has clearly gone into everything. I encouraged someone today by helping buy gift cards to her favorite stores and a manicure for her birthday to help her through some tough days.

  595. Brigit Storhoff on December 31, 2015 at 3:46 am

    When I see you write about being messy and imperfect it gives me hope for 2016. I’m excited for a very vulnerable journey and after many “new years”, I’m finally feeling like I’m being honest about this process. I’m blessed to have found you and your resources! Bring on the New Year!

  596. Shiree Shaffer on December 31, 2015 at 3:49 am

    I’m so sad that I have to wait on my Power Sheets. I waited too long! I’m so excited to receive them. Thank you for sharing and thank you for a chance at a wonderful giveaway. I gave my best friend encouragement by texting her… She has been going through a really tough time lately.

  597. Stacie on December 31, 2015 at 3:50 am

    So looking forward to 2016.

  598. Sarah on December 31, 2015 at 3:52 am

    Yay for this!!

  599. Alison on December 31, 2015 at 4:11 am

    Juggling life as a new mom and wedding photographer with the desire to love my husband well and spend quality time with God every day – I’m in need of structure, focus and goals. Loving making my way through your book!

  600. Haley on December 31, 2015 at 5:28 am

    Oh my goodness, I just came across this blog, and you are an inspiration. Thanks for your encouragement!

  601. Brittany on December 31, 2015 at 11:46 am

    Thank you so much, Lara, for this inspiration. I really needed it! After talking to my husband and looking over what did and didn’t work this year, I realized that I really had to say NO to some of my plans in order to say YES to the Ultimate plan (The One from the Lord- He indeed knows best). I’m a little scared but I’m trusting in HIM!!

    • Lara on December 31, 2015 at 12:49 pm

      Yes! Love it!

  602. Chelsea Gilliland on December 31, 2015 at 1:46 pm

    Journaling my way through all the steps and heading into 2016 more humbled but more confident than ever before. Thank you for taking the time to do this and for being so open with your own struggles and triumphs!

    • Lara on December 31, 2015 at 2:57 pm

      I’m so grateful to hear this!

  603. Carrie Beth on December 31, 2015 at 3:50 pm

    Wow! I love how ON TIME the Lord always is! Yesterday I realized that He was leading to purpose my mind and body and heart and spirit to live a life of purpose this year. I’ve taken PURPOSE as my word for the year. I’ve spent so much time chasing perfect and busyness because of fear. I’m learning that saying no is ok – even when I’m saying no to good things because GOOD doesn’t necessarily mean GOD. I’m at a sweet spot in my relationship with Christ this year. I’ve grown more than ever before, but I know it won’t continue if I don’t quit destroying my family (me as a single now and any hope for future family) by chasing perfect and busy. I’m learning to rest and create whitespace in my life. 2015 was a ridiculously awesome year for me. Yeah, there were definitely hard times and struggles and valleys… but overall, the Lord has shown me so much grace. I let go of a toxic relationship. I’ve cultivated intimacy with Christ. I made a new, life-breathing friendship. I finally gave myself permission to call myself a writer, and I started a blog (www.carriebethdavis.com). It’s only a little over a month old, but I’m so excited about making the time to write what the Lord’s speaking to my heart. I’ve used the two weeks of Christmas break to really reflect over the past year and ready myself for next year. I sense a lot of change – God’s speaking to me specifically about my finances and my health. All in all, I’m super excited about where He’s leading me this year. I just discovered your site and this goal series, and I’m super pumped. Just ordered your book on Amazon today! Can’t wait to start reading this new year. Here’s to trusting Christ fully this year!

  604. Stephanie on December 31, 2015 at 4:06 pm

    I’m ready to embrace the inspiration!

  605. Melanie Harris on December 31, 2015 at 4:09 pm

    I will be finishing my 2015 power sheets in 2016. Yes, I admit it. Last year I started with strong ideas and didn’t cross the finish line. So I am doing something I don’t do often. Showing myself grace and starting again. Forcing myself to not purchase fresh sheets and refusing to be in the same place this time next year. My husband and I were blessed with a beautiful miracle baby girl this past September. I allowed pregnancy and being a new mom to consume me by fear. Fear that I couldn’t be both a good mom and pursue my goals and dreams. This year I promise to figure out how to do both by surrounding myself with support and no longer allowing my fear of failure to paralyze me. Here is to 2016.

  606. Lyn on December 31, 2015 at 4:12 pm

    I have so much to be thankful for. I am visiting my daughter and her family for the holiday. Spending time with my 15 month old granddaughter is so very precious!! I turn 54 in three months and just celebrated my 25th year anniversary as a breast cancer survivor. My goals for 2016 are to build on my faith by strengthening my relationship with God, become a better version of myself by becoming healthier and more fit (losing 100lbs) and by allowing myself to take some time for me every so often. Looking forward to making 2016 a great year full of health and prosperity!! I know that God helped me to survive some of the most difficult days imaginable and He has great things waiting for me!!

  607. Michelle Strickland on December 31, 2015 at 4:18 pm

    Lara, this was incredible to read. The past week was a Christmas vacation with lots of family and fellowship. Due to a massive winter storm, we were delayed two days to get home to Houston. This quickly became a blessing in disguise! One of my goals this year is to not let the negative/not-so-perfect situations control my feelings. God allowed the perfect opportunity to practice that and to transition into starting the PowerSheets Workbook for 2016. These words of encouragement, along with the grace of God this week, are allowing the pages to fill themselves! Thank you for your encouragement to focus on what matters most in life!

  608. Dana P. on December 31, 2015 at 4:21 pm

    I just finished the prep work in my Powersheets workbook and couldn’t be more excited to head into 2016 with intentional goal setting! I’m so happy I found this wonderful product — thanks for being a cheerleader for making things happen, Lara!

  609. Tabitha Panariso on December 31, 2015 at 4:31 pm

    I texted my ladies prayer group a verse I feel that God has really put on my heart for this year, which is for all of us. ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

    • Kim on January 1, 2016 at 4:08 am

      ❤️❤️❤️❤️

  610. Tabitha Panariso on December 31, 2015 at 4:34 pm

    Also, thank you for this series. Currently, I am laid up with a broken ankle (while 35 weeks pregnant) and so though I don’t have the money right now to buy the powersheets, I am doing your edited version to get my brain juices flowing. I am just grateful for the time to actually sit down and do this (forced or not!)

  611. Suzanne on December 31, 2015 at 4:43 pm

    Stumbled upon your blog and I absolutely love it. Can’t wait to get started living life on purpose. It’s never too late is it?

  612. Cortney Jones on December 31, 2015 at 5:34 pm

    Lara , I literally just found your shop & blog on Mon, Dec. 28th and I feel so overwhelmed because I feel behind! Lol, but I know change is a lifelong process and it’s never too late to take control of your life. This is encouraging me because I’m 25 trying to make right all my mistakes and live up to the things I told people I would have done by now. It is so stressful. And even more so when I don’t read the Word or pray as much as I should. 2015 has been one of the most unbearable years…but I made it. He didn’t give me more than I could bare. Jesus was a present help when I was alone and I’m grateful for finding your website and book before I go into 2016. I pray that God continues to use you as a vessel of encouragement for me and one day, I for you. Happy New Year and thank you for giving me a reason to feel like I can accomplish all that God has placed my hands to do and go as far as my dreams take me in 2016. My budget is a little too slim for the PowerSheets right now, but I’ll continue to be a regular visitor here. GOD BLESS YOU! Cortney

  613. Ruth G. Nguyen on December 31, 2015 at 5:37 pm

    My constant chase has been to be societies definition of the perfect woman, mother and wife. I’m ready to let go.

  614. Jessica P. on December 31, 2015 at 6:06 pm

    First, thank you for this series, the first chapter of your book, for being so open & real with us, and for being you. I truly appreciate everything you do and share.

    STEP ONE: What have you been chasing?
    I wanted to be able to juggle everything – school, my home, family (my daughter & dog), having a job in the future, improving myself, doing anything I can for anyone I can.. etc.. and do so with 100% perfection. I am used to spreading myself very thin. I know that it is impossible to give myself to every aspect of my life 100%, that if I give more to aspect A then that takes away some from aspect B-F.. but it’s still engrained that I have to give 100%.. if I don’t, then I’m a failure as a mom, an employee, an adult.. It is very stressful and I become devastated over every single mishap or aspect that isn’t perfect.

    STEP TWO: How are you?
    I have filled out the printable and here is a copy of my responses:
    https://i.imgur.com/zpYOvAQ.png
    As a summary, I feel very positive about most things going on in my life, but definitely not all! Disappointed with myself in relation to relationships, I’m not putting forth the effort I should be in any of my relationships. I’m also uncertain about any gifts/talents/creative anything I have. Lastly, my health isn’t that good – by my own doing. I don’t take care of myself like I should.
    However, I look forward to growing *relationships* in 2016: with myself, my family, my friends, and my environment!

    STEP THREE: What worked in 2015?

    2015 was a good year for me, I was able to achieve a ton of growth and start to realize who I am and what matters to me. I discovered my core values (with the help of my life coach!) and I’ve grown so much and learned so much as a person, I’m so thankful for the year.

    I had an internship over the summer and was very nervous as it was my first professional job. I conquered it – to the point that THEY couldn’t keep up with ME. I was completing work accurately but faster and they weren’t prepared for that. I ended up learning that I’m a valuable asset (I’m also an accountant. Lol.) to a company and it helped push me towards finding a job that will see that. 
    In 2015, I had 8 classes and received only 1 B – while that normally gives me a struggle, I accepted it and was thankful that it was a B (and not a C) and my overall GPA was raised, as well as maintaining my major + minor GPA at a 4.0. The biggest point? I graduated college!! I have my bachelors! 😀 While, I still need more classes to get CPA eligible, this is a huge deal for me.

    Lessons I learned from what worked:
    Life is a series of experiences: create them and create your life.
    I’m capable of more than I give myself credit for.
    I have to have true motivation – down to my core – for me to follow through with things.

  615. Katrina on December 31, 2015 at 7:18 pm

    I love this approach to goal setting and can’t wait to embark on the process for next year’s intentionally driven adventure!! And congrats on the adoption!! I feel as though I’ve lived the process with you in growing a family and will be welcoming our first little one in February…good luck with your latest addition!!

  616. Ashley on December 31, 2015 at 7:27 pm

    I love all of this, thank you Lara . I have been struggling with maybe I am just ungrateful and that I am not submitting to the Lord by not being OK with the life I have rather than wanting something more. I feel as though He ia giving me permission to dream and hope again. That I can be grateful for my life and pray and believe for big things because I serve a big God. He knows I am just a girl who gets it wrong all the time, but that I want my heart to be passionately pursuing Him and serving Him and watching Him to the above and beyond I know He is capable of. That I nees to be rhe Caleb and Joshuas who were different because they simply chose to have faith and trust God and move on that trust. Thanks again Lara❤

  617. Maureen on December 31, 2015 at 7:45 pm

    I have been working on my goals/vision/mission statement for the past two weeks. Gleaning info. from your blog, Periscope and Instagram feed, I am finally the furthest I have ever been on goal setting! I am determined to make 2016 purposeful and full of action.

  618. Ki Matlock on December 31, 2015 at 8:10 pm

    My sweet friend just told me about the Power Sheets. I just love your inspiration on being intentional about planning for the new year.

  619. SC on December 31, 2015 at 8:20 pm

    Wonderful giveaway and series. I plan to be intentional about setting goals that are authentic to me. Your posts are helping.

  620. Janet K on December 31, 2015 at 8:21 pm

    What a fun giveaway! I love the book “Make it Happen”! 2016 is the best year for living on purpose! Thanks Lara for getting us started with this series and giveaway.

  621. Janet K on December 31, 2015 at 8:33 pm

    I encouraged my friend by sending an email with the words from Phil 4:8 from your downloads. “Whatever is True, Whatever is Noble …” Told her that would be a great way to start the New Year!
    Happy New Year y’all

  622. Kameya Shows-Ciers on December 31, 2015 at 9:45 pm

    I am ready to have more real joy in my life. And a passion-filled contentment (not sure if that makes sense). I want to be grateful and thankful for where are am while preparing and being open for what God has for me.

    This year I will be who God envisioned for me to be when he created me and do what He will have me do.

    Step 1: I have been chasing control, adoration, praise, attention, materials things.

    Step 2: I am not being the best me. I am not well. I am nervous, scared to reveal the real me and my actual thoughts and feelings. I am distracted. And I keep busy so I can avoid the important things and things that I am not good at or that result s in praise or attention.

    Step 3: What worked in 2015: Coming to terms with hard things from my childhood, marriage counselling, doing less stuff, not committing myself to as many volunteer projects, tasks and I typically do. Mocha Moms group. Coming up with a plan with my hubby on how to help our little one with his speech and developmental delay.

    Bonus – Good Things List: Healthy son, loving husband, better relationship with my mom, letting go of past hurts, our home, health of all my Grandmothers, the will to make changes, the love, grace and mercy of God.

    • Kim on January 1, 2016 at 4:06 am

      Passion filled contentment…love it

  623. Lauren on December 31, 2015 at 9:59 pm

    Amazing and will be utilizing this question for my Ladies Night IN(ye) event tonight–just some gals coming together to release 2015 and embrace 2015.

    Thank you and Happy New Year.

  624. Jamie Goodall on December 31, 2015 at 10:17 pm

    I can’t wait to get started on my Powersheets!

  625. Jenn on December 31, 2015 at 11:49 pm

    This is fun and amazing! I can’t wait to get started! Thank you!

  626. Kimberly Zmuda on January 1, 2016 at 1:07 am

    Yay for new goals! I love reflecting this time a year as I prepare for the next…tonight I’m getting my budget ready for 2016 and am thinking 2016 is the year that I say bye-bye to student loan payments! Praise the Lord!

  627. Jahna on January 1, 2016 at 1:07 am

    This post is incredibly inspiring and I’ll definitely be ordering the 6 month starter pack!!!

  628. Robin on January 1, 2016 at 1:49 am

    My sister has MS and today I had a long talk with her about not giving up hope…either of us. It was heartfelt and wonderful.

  629. Sara Skulec on January 1, 2016 at 3:06 am

    Thanks so much for your encouragement! I look forward to planning 2016 and reflecting on 2015!

  630. Lauren on January 1, 2016 at 3:46 am

    Such an encouraging post! Thanks for sharing!

  631. Kim on January 1, 2016 at 4:04 am

    1. What have I been chasing? I feel like wy too many things. I have been chasing perfection, success, acceptance, money, love. I have been feeling exhausted, restless, overwhelmed, frazzled, angry.

    2. 2015 had some good things but a lot of stress and anxiety, frustration and anger. My physical space….we moved in November and still have lots of unpacking and organizing to do. Money….I hate it but need to become best friends with it. There is always lack. I have lots of talent and creativity. I haven’t gotten to use it much. The rare times I do, I feel really good. Work is good. Being a mom of 5, that’s been rocky. Taking care of myself, almost non existent. I have very little energy, do not sleep much, hate my body. Relationships…..not good. 2016: it’s time for big changes. I will be embracing imperfection. I will be taking care of me. It’s going to be a great year!!!

  632. Molly on January 1, 2016 at 4:07 am

    I was looking for something like this!

  633. Lisa M on January 1, 2016 at 4:09 am

    Here’s to an awesome 2016 of grace-filled intentional living!!!

  634. Kim on January 1, 2016 at 4:47 am

    Lara Casey, where have you been all my life??? How am I just now getting word of your awesome product line and blog??? My word for 2016 is “intention” and I cannot think of a more fitting tool to help me in my quest to live with intention than your worksheets! But, alas, I see I am too late to order, unless I want to wait until Spring. But maybe, just maybe…I’ll be the lucky one. Not holding my breath…but I am crossing my fingers and toes!!! #pickme #pickme

  635. Abigail on January 1, 2016 at 5:13 am

    I loved this post. I want to invest in those #powersheets and I’m sharing links to all of these on my blog. 🙂 My goals for 2016 are to build up my business so that it’s sustainable and hubby and I can start paying off debt and living more free! I also want to draw closer to God and my family. I want to do some random acts of kindness this year as well.

  636. sarah scheenstra on January 1, 2016 at 5:18 am

    I just started reading Make It Happen and I am so excited to see where God leads me as I journal through the book! I know He will use your words to encourage me in my calling!

  637. Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat on January 1, 2016 at 5:55 am

    Lara, thank you so much for all of this! I’ve just been writing my answers to all of your questions above in my journal and you have me feeling beyond excited about 2016. Not just that though, but also very at ease with myself and where I’m at, especially with everything that happened in my life in 2015. Thank you so much for the inspiration and thought-provoking reflection questions, and Happy New Year!

  638. elisabeth on January 1, 2016 at 7:15 am

    Inspired to make 2016 an amazing year. Thanks for the thoughts!

  639. elisabeth on January 1, 2016 at 7:16 am

    Oh, text my friend a Bible verse for encouragement. 🙂

  640. Anna Hecksher on January 1, 2016 at 4:49 pm

    LOVE this! And I’m kind of loving that New Years Day is a Friday – makes me feel like I get a 3 day weekend to ease into the new year and set new goals! And today I’m encouraging my Mom – it’s been an exhausting holiday season for her and I’m lucky enough to still be home on vacation. Today we’re cooking up a storm but just for us – having a fridge fully stocked with meals is the most comforting thing I know for her to start the New Year!

  641. Abby on January 1, 2016 at 5:16 pm

    I am so excited to start the new year reflecting on 2015 and looking ahead to 2016!

  642. Michelle on January 1, 2016 at 6:18 pm

    Thanks for the great info!

  643. Bethany Schneider on January 1, 2016 at 6:36 pm

    This is incredible! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom in goal setting- it’s a huge gift. I feel more ready for 2016 now!

  644. Tessy on January 1, 2016 at 6:38 pm

    I have used your goal setting tips for the past few years and I love geeking out over the reflecting and setting new goals.

  645. Jayne on January 1, 2016 at 6:54 pm

    Step 1 – What Have I Been Chasing?
    I tend to chase the next step. Whether that’s getting engaged, getting married, buying a house, I struggle with contentment and being aware of where God has me in the present.

    Step 2 – How are you?
    Really? I’m tired. I’m a little disenchanted with the church, and a little skeptical of how I should continue to engage in church. I feel as though I’ve been spinning my wheels chasing things that, though maybe they’re good and worthy things, they alone do not satisfy.

    Step 3 – What Worked in 2015?
    Vulnerability. Honesty. Letting go of my own personal desires, fears, and inhibitions to nurture a deeper intimacy with the Lord and with my husband.

    Three Lessons –
    – I don’t matter as much as I think I do.
    That’s really the biggest. Everything else is centered around that . And not in a self-depricating, “nobody loves me” pity party kind of way, but a “humility is having an accurate view of yourself and I have fostered an inflated view of myself” way.

    Good things to come:
    Trusting the Lord! There is much to come, but I don’t really know any of it. We are moving houses, maybe moving towns, which would mean new jobs, new church, new friends, and what to do with old friends. But the Lord has yet to fully reveal His plans – we have ideas and we are pursuing these things, but He could still take them away in the blink of an eye. So, trusting the Lord is a good thing that is to come. Beyond that, we have a new niece and a psuedo-nephew coming this spring, and we are thrilled for our friends and family to add arrows in their quivers! Also, we love being an aunt and an uncle. It’s seriously the funnest thing ever.

  646. Becca on January 1, 2016 at 7:05 pm

    Amazing info! Really hope I win the new power sheets so I can get even more focused for this year!

  647. Ami on January 1, 2016 at 7:07 pm

    Hi, Lara. I just got your book and am working through it, as well as ordered the 2015 power sheets (because I’m impatient!). But. I’m here with a busted faith. It broke years ago. So working through this and realizing how much faith this requires is unnerving to me. Not because I’m anti-faith. But because I have no idea how to put mine back together. (I’m Humpty Dumpty, apparently!) or if I even can. In any case, I’m going to give this a go and see where it leads me.

    • Lara on January 1, 2016 at 7:34 pm

      I’m so excited for you and just prayed for you. God does amazing things with our broken pieces.

  648. Regina @ A Journaled Life on January 1, 2016 at 7:12 pm

    Moses is my homeboy! L-O-V-E it!!!

    • Lara on January 1, 2016 at 7:33 pm

      : ) : )

  649. Marla Stanley on January 1, 2016 at 7:38 pm

    This is game-changing!

  650. Marla Stanley on January 1, 2016 at 7:41 pm

    I’m chatting with a friend about near year health goals and how we can support one another the next few months. 🙂

  651. Bardees on January 1, 2016 at 7:56 pm

    this is so great, happy 1st day of 2016 to you all. I remember doing the series back in 2013 and feeling really good about answering the prompts.
    noticed you asked what worked in “2016” 🙂

    • Lara on January 1, 2016 at 8:04 pm

      Welcome back, and thank you! Just fixed that! : )

  652. Liz on January 1, 2016 at 8:11 pm

    Thank you for this post! I love the guide to reflect on the past year.. I am always moving so fast, this forced to me slow down and think about things more deeply. Once I got writing I couldn’t stop. I am excited to go through the rest of the steps now too.

  653. Beth on January 1, 2016 at 8:22 pm

    I would be so thrilled to be blessed enough to wiln. I was not able to attend Vend Raleigh’s Illuminate last year, so I missed out on your generous gift. Blessings, Beth

  654. Megan on January 1, 2016 at 9:06 pm

    Love what you said about chasing perfect, totally what I have been doing since my son was born 2 years ago. This blog really hit me hard and I know I have to make some changes to get my life … messy!

  655. Ruby on January 1, 2016 at 9:19 pm

    Amazing giveaway! Thanks for the chance!

  656. Madeline on January 1, 2016 at 9:20 pm

    I am participating in goal setting for the first year, and LOVING the structure but creativity behind this process. I just started reading Make It Happen and I love getting to know your story through that!

    I have been chasing it “all”–this crazy, made up idea of what I envision to be the perfect life where I do it all (excel at my job, travel all the time, lead life groups, go to class, pass my CPA exam, run a business, on and on and on). I’m learning that that stems from deep-rooted pride and, simultaneously, fear of being deemed inadequate or untalented. But in 2015, CELEBRATION worked. Learning from those around me. Taking time to laugh and recuperate. Community worked. Taking root worked.

    Thank you for your questions that make me examine the life with which I have become so complacent. Cheers to you, friend!

  657. Ruby on January 1, 2016 at 9:20 pm

    I am often encouraging others because I know what it’s like to have support. It is so important to be there for people and to verbalize that support. 🙂

  658. Kameya Shows-Ciers on January 1, 2016 at 9:57 pm

    So encouraged by you all and this process. I pray that we all are strong in the Lord this day and every day forward.

    “Be Strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wile of the devil.” – Ephesians 6:10

  659. Tabitha Panariso on January 1, 2016 at 10:04 pm

    I encouraged my husband. He has been rocking it out taking care of me, our son, and our home as I recover from a broken ankle (while 35 weeks pregnant….) He is amazing!

  660. Deborah on January 1, 2016 at 10:23 pm

    Lara I am so grateful for this ministry. I have been wound up so tight oxygen barely flows through my muscles to my brain lol. Being “messy” is exactly what I needed for 2016. Thank you for living in a glass house so we can all see that, in Him, we can be made whole! We’ve never personally met, but I love you just the same!

  661. Carrie on January 1, 2016 at 10:32 pm

    This is such a positive and encouraging process. Thank you for following Jesus and bringing this gift to us all!

  662. Elizabeth on January 1, 2016 at 11:07 pm

    Thank you so much for this series, Lara!!

  663. Melissa Grimsley Shafer on January 1, 2016 at 11:19 pm

    Love this article and love love love the chasing perfect video!

  664. Summer W on January 1, 2016 at 11:45 pm

    My word of the year is Radical. I want to live more radical for God, my family, my marriage, myself and my giving! 9)

  665. Crystal on January 2, 2016 at 12:22 am

    I love this article and it’s making me reflect so much already. 2015 has been a very difficult and dark year and I don’t want to continue in this direction. I’ve walked away from my faith many years ago, and to be honest I’m still not sure where I stand with it, but I can at least say that times were easier then. I realize I need to find my way back, and this post is helping me get there. Thank you. I always know that God puts people in our life for a reason, and I was meant to come across your website during these times. Thank You! Seriously! God speaks through you and I’m grateful for it.

  666. Courtney L. on January 2, 2016 at 1:07 am

    Love this blog post! Can’t wait to dig into the series. I pulled out a copy of undated Power Sheets from last year and my copy of Make It Happen and started them today! Ready to get into some faith-based goal setting and to live on purpose!!

  667. Jenn on January 2, 2016 at 1:10 am

    This is an amazing series, and I can’t wait to read more!! I’m still working on my word for this year, but I’m thinking “on my knees” because I want to focus more on prayer!

  668. Charmaine on January 2, 2016 at 1:25 am

    I’m so excited to come across your blog, I have had your book for awhile and now is the time to start- I had to make some small changes in order for me to be ready to hear what you wrote.
    Step 1: I have been chasing success as defined by where I live, what I do and how I look. 3 years ago this changed when I had my youngest – she was born with a congenital heart defect that altered our lives and I have felt unsuccessful these last 3 years because of what I had been chasing now and before her birth.
    Step2: How Am I? I have felt like I have been treading water but am now learning how to swim. I mentioned earlier that I am in a place to really move forward- this is why. This leads me to what worked in 205-
    I decided this fall to get up and get dressed for the day I want and not the life or days I had been having.
    My husband got a new job that had potential to move up and not just do to make ends meet- my daughter got a Wish granted from “Make-A- Wish Hawai’i” we went to WDW- but the power of a wish is real not just for her but us to experience a gift like that really changes your perspective- and that was the beginning of my change. You cant but walk away humbled and grateful. Pray, paying tithing, looking for opportunities to give back. All these worked
    3 Lessons I learned- I can change, and in order to I must take action and as you said I need to surrender myself to God.

  669. Jessica on January 2, 2016 at 1:26 am

    A dear friend directed me to your blog, and now I am playing catchup!! I have ordered the powersheets and am SO excited for 2016. I can’t read to continue in the series!

    • Lara on January 2, 2016 at 1:57 am

      Yay I’m excited for you!!!

  670. Sophia on January 2, 2016 at 1:32 am

    AAAHHH so many good prizes I can’t even tell which one I want more 🙂

  671. Joyce on January 2, 2016 at 1:47 am

    this is amazing! I want them all! <3

  672. Courtney L. on January 2, 2016 at 2:27 am

    My entry for encouraging someone – I sent well wishes to a friend on Facebook today. She posted what she was grateful for in 2015 and I just sent a little love and wishes for a wonderful new year! I know for me, it’s something simple and sweet like a sweet or encouraging comment from a friend that makes me day brighter and lets me know I am loved, and if I can do that for others every day, then that makes my heart happy – and hopefully theirs, too!

  673. Kat on January 2, 2016 at 2:29 am

    I’m really excited for 2016. I know you can always start anew any time, but somehow a new year always seems to bring an extra spring or inspiration to starting over.

    I’ve always loved art and writing fiction, and I dabble at it occasionally. However it was only last year (or rather, 2014) did I really try to do something about writing and getting published, and in 2015, I tried to do more about my art. Working with a lot talented and younger people really made me want to get out of my rut. I’m not a very organized person, and I want to do so many things at once. The Powersheets look really amazing, and would love to have one. I feel it’ll be a great help for me and getting my goals done.

  674. Jessica on January 2, 2016 at 2:30 am

    I just found you and I love this! You blog, the printables, the book and all of it!! Super excited to follow you and learn more and I am so excited for a fabulous new year in 2016!!!

    • Lara on January 2, 2016 at 3:18 am

      Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here!

  675. Jen on January 2, 2016 at 3:38 am

    Such a beautiful post! Congrats on your news 😀 I’ve just started following you on Instagram and loving your photos and ideas 🙂

  676. Brandy W. on January 2, 2016 at 4:11 am

    I just discovered you and I’m so incredibly pumped by this!! I found you via Michelle Myers on Instagram.

  677. Michelle on January 2, 2016 at 4:54 am

    Wow – just what I have been searching for, so helpful! Can’t wait to learn more – 2016 is going to be fabulous!

  678. Bex on January 2, 2016 at 5:03 am

    New Year means NEW OPPORTUNITY.
    Thankful the Lord is a God of “ANOTHER CHANCE”
    struggle is real for “perfections” and never measuring up.
    How awesome is God with randomly stumbling upon your shop & blog. And how IN STEP it is with what I need to hear for this current valley that I am in at this point in life.
    It’s all that can be done to just keep my head above the crashing waves.
    First, I have been chasing “perfection” in the form of signification – wanting life to have meaning & purpose BUT have being going after that approval from the wrong folks/things of this world and trying to fill the emptiness I feel with stuff. Let’s just say my way isn’t work or bringing any sort of satisfaction or “perfection” but rather more brokenness. Thankful God is all about mercy & compassion.
    2. This chase has left me feeling inadequate in EVERY area of my life. That feeling of being less all the time is exhausting & draining- mentally, emotionally, & physically.
    There is definitely some embarrassment that comes along with “failing”
    3. Imagine that what worked was surrendering to God. when I let go and let God, awesome things have started to happen. Doors opened for a job – with health insurance. the opportunity to teach dance again. Finding community at church was something else that helped my heart this past year. Gave me accountability & encouragement. I have a tendency to get stuck in the mud with negative thoughts…. I found that identifying the “lies” in my thoughts to then find God’s TRUTH in scripture to help combat those evil tapes when they start to play. making index cards with scriptures to carry in my purse really has helped redirecting the negativity.
    BUT for this year I want to take the focus off me and my imperfections & direct focus to God & finding direction & purpose in Him for my life. Live in Purpose .
    let go of me and my constant need for more and more, but fill that void with more of God & his promises.

    Looking forward to this New Year, New Opportunity with a Fresh Start and to ENJOY THE JOURNEY.

    does no good wishing I would have stumbled upon this sooner so that I could actually have read the book and have the workbook & power sheets… Because it was in God’s timing that I found this when I did. Thankful.

  679. Anna on January 2, 2016 at 6:08 am

    I need all of this in my life right now! I’m so happy that you’re offereing pre-orders of the Powersheets because I missed ordering before they sold out by hours I feel. There is so much going on in life right now. Last year I rolled with the punches and didn’t take one second to plan things to be better than they were. Not this year! I say bring it on.

  680. Arlyne Coker on January 2, 2016 at 7:36 am

    I’m so happy to have just recently found you via comments on Instagram. This series and your periscopes are very inspiring… I look forward to working through the Power Sheets. Thanks for your honesty and encouragement.

  681. Elizabeth Perkins on January 2, 2016 at 7:41 am

    Thank you for this opportunity!! I need this in my life <3

  682. Kara-Anne on January 2, 2016 at 9:01 am

    1: I have been chasing money – and significance. It gets to me, y’know? When people automatically expect your business to fail. So I work doubly hard to make my business work… Sometimes even to be like someone else whom I deem “successful enough.”

    But the saddest part is, my business is actually doing good. I have nothing to prove. I have my own legacy to leave. And there is never “enough.” If I am chasing, there is never, ever “enough.” There’s just going to be someone else to chase. Something else to prove.

    And for money? I can never serve two gods. God has shown again and again that He will and is willing to provide. So all I gotta do is lean in, and focus on what matters most. He will provide. He will prune. He will make me the best I can be – the way He made me.

    2: I’m doing quite well. Seriously, I am. Of course, I am still praying to change the worry wart in me about money. I have to be more prudent with it, and I know that God is working within me with that. And I have a new, beautiful home to enjoy and I can’t do that if I’m always brooding about the things that I cannot control.

    The truth is, life is good. It’s always good. It’s hard, but it’s good. So I thank God for that. He has been awesomely faithful and everything has materialized better and bigger than I’ve ever imagined. And I am good.

    The sticky situation at church about serving? God is working. God knows what I need. He is good and able.

    3: I had my best year in business yet. It was amazing.
    I moved into my first home (I am a homeowner! At 23!) and designed and managed the renovations all on my own. It is a beautiful place to call home.
    I’ve made grace-filled friends and become more sociable.
    I’ve learned to be kinder to myself and learn to enjoy the things that I’ve earned and bought.
    My husband is wonderful, as always.
    My 4 housewarmings were warm and amazing!
    I went to London and got to see my favorite footballer.
    I had fireworks right outside my window. Awesome.

    4: I learned that being in the moment is much, much more joyful and purposeful than trying to plan for something else. That it is okay to get LESS done. It is okay if I need time off. I don’t have to guilt myself over things I buy, or decisions I make, but instead ENJOY them and then learn lessons from them.

    I learned that I needed much more focus and that could only come from God. I know God wants to do big things with my business, and I need to let Him. I need to hustle to make visions come to life. The visions HE gave me, instead of letting it fall away.

    I learned to put myself in others’ shoes. I learned that everyone has their thing. And that is okay. It’s okay to be vulnerable and to hurt. It’s okay to feel angry. But when it’s all over, know that everyone is hurting, somewhere, somehow. That all we need is a whole dollop of grace. A lot, a lot of grace.

    Thank you for letting me do this, Lara. Typing it out is much, much more comfortable to me than writing it out, but one day I will copy all these over to my Powersheets. 🙂

  683. Charlie Marsh on January 2, 2016 at 2:01 pm

    Thank you, for sharing your talent in developing this inspirational series on goal setting ! I love your powerful wisdom combined with the lovely artwork you add.

  684. Christina on January 2, 2016 at 2:09 pm

    The 3 lessons I’m taking from 2015 are:
    1. Quality over quantity – in ALL things and ALL areas of life.
    2. Gratitude – I want to PRAISE Him for all things, knwing that His ways are not my ways and that He has a plan for me and my life.
    3. I’ve learned that I function better with a plan, so I will live with INTENTION (which is my word dor 2016!) and purpose.

  685. Sarah on January 2, 2016 at 3:37 pm

    Hello! I started my powersheets in middle of December, so I am now reading back through them and commenting.
    Some of the things that worked in 2015: being a stay at home mama, dinner co-op, margin in our calendar, becoming a gf home, being area of self care, a filing system for bills, statements, etc, saying goodbye to FB.
    Some of the things that didn’t work in 2015: not having a dedicated morning routine, worry/overthinking the future, emotional/over eating, shame from our miscarriage, rushing, multi tasking.
    A lesson I learned from each… Self care was a great thing to learn and develop. If my well is empty I do not have much to give to others, especially those close to me. Starting to work out, shoot film again, and read has been so much fun and so good for me!! A lesson I learned from what didn’t work is without a dedicated routine I feel all over throughout my day, instead of focused.

  686. Sarah on January 2, 2016 at 3:42 pm

    For my encouragement entry: I am wrapping up the latest Southern Wedding magazine with a special hand written note to give to me sister, who got engaged yesterday!!!!

    • Mychelle on January 2, 2016 at 5:10 pm

      Hello Sarah, Good job! Prayer for your miscarriage and your emotional healing!
      My dream is to be a stay at home mom, so YO GO GIRL! You are So Speacial!
      I tottally feel you on emotional overeating! Have a great and focused 2016!

    • Lara on January 2, 2016 at 7:28 pm

      Ahhh!! Tell your sis I said congrats!

    • Sarah on January 3, 2016 at 9:34 pm

      Mychelle, thank you for your kinds words and prayer!! May 2016 shine brightly for you!

  687. Mychelle on January 2, 2016 at 5:08 pm

    STEP 1: What have you been chasing? Acceptance, Sucess, Money, Pride, Peace
    Step 2: I have been feeling overwhelmend, sticky, overwheight, exausted, agitated, drifted.
    Step 3: Lessons I learned: Stop shouting! Nt trying to control people, to pray more, NOT TO BECOME ANXIOUS, that some food are bad for me, that only God never ddisapoints

  688. Elizabeth on January 2, 2016 at 5:15 pm

    I just discovered you while searching the internet for goal-setting help. I am desperate to LET GO and leap. I’ve ordered your book…can’t wait to get started! Thank you for who you are and for your passion to help others.

  689. Lynn Wigren on January 2, 2016 at 5:18 pm

    Just got my PowerSheets and binder on New Year’s Eve and I’m making my way through the sheets, blog posts, and videos. Loving this!

  690. Sonja on January 2, 2016 at 7:16 pm

    Thank you for this process – it has set me in the right direction

  691. Rachel on January 2, 2016 at 7:16 pm

    So I just finished the 3 steps in this post and wanted to affirm it out loud so that I was accountable for my goals. 2016 here I come!

    I have been chasing the need for APPROVAL! From anyone but mostly my family which I think will make me whole, but it is just false hope.

    I am ok, on an emotional roller coaster ride with my thoughts, habits, and words needing to be said to people I hold dear.

    What worked in 2015 was that my husband and I were able to buy a house and do some renovations to it so we could flip it and make an investment.. We also found a nice car that is in our budget that runs. My husband was able to find a new job which we are grateful for as well as new friends. I was also lucky to get a second job to help pay off debt that was accumulating.

    Lessons I learned from what worked in 2015 was 1. trust is huge!!! Always trust God with His plans and timing… 2. work hard and it will pay off in the future in more ways than you expect… and 3. NEVER! take what you have in front of you for granted!!! You never know when it will be gone.

  692. ASHLEY on January 2, 2016 at 7:51 pm

    Thank you for this 2016 goal setting. I have fear of chasing perfection. I want to change this. I got a diagnosis of cancer (brain cancer, an astroyctoma) in the last half of 2015. I fear losing my family and a lot of other things. We have to think about death sometimes and I think it is healthy for us. I have also been living overseas for the last 3.5 years. Anyway, I pray that this year I can really invest in my family and friends.

  693. Lauren on January 2, 2016 at 8:22 pm

    Thank you for making this available. I’m really looking forward to trying it.

  694. Karen on January 2, 2016 at 8:55 pm

    Thanks! This is totally out of my comfort zone 🙂 but I have been following you on Instagram for about a year now, so I’m finally moving on to your blog and it’s exciting! What have I been chasing? I would say, just trying to keep my head above water, so maybe the end of each day… I have a relationship with The Lord and a beautiful family which keep me afloat but have a very stressful full time job so it is exhausting balancing it all! Lots of great things happened it 2015 for which I am very grateful and thankful, God is good, so I’m looking forward to 2016 and some new goals!

    • Lara on January 2, 2016 at 10:12 pm

      I’m so proud of you for digging in here, Karen! Yay!

  695. Rachel on January 2, 2016 at 10:50 pm

    I just discovered your website! The Powersheets look amazing!

    • Lara on January 2, 2016 at 11:37 pm

      Welcome! Glad to have you here!

  696. Jacque Duran on January 2, 2016 at 11:52 pm

    I’ve been chasing the approval of others and mostly strangers. In 2015 I feel that personally it was a waste. I didn’t live MY life, I lived everyone else’s “version” of my life. I lived to please others. But, 2015 also gave us the best family vacation, a new amazing healthy baby boy, learning to let go of some things and being open and ready for drastic change.

  697. Sarah on January 3, 2016 at 12:46 am

    I can’t wait for my Powersheets to come! I’m like a kid on Christmas Eve!

  698. Callie on January 3, 2016 at 1:38 am

    I’m going through this with my husband as we dream and plan! Such good stuff! Thanks for sharing.

  699. Kirstie Sherrow on January 3, 2016 at 1:42 am

    I feel like any of these giveaway items would be beneficial.

    What was I chasing? I was chasing approval from my family.
    How am I feeling? I am ok. I don’t always get the approval that I seek, but I am learning that I don’t need it to be happy and content with my life.
    What worked in 2015? It was during 2015 that I decided to stop living the life that everyone else thought I should be. This is the year that I started to live a life for me, even though I don’t really know what I want anymore. In order to start learning about myself again, I spent some time just for me to discover my likes, dislikes and talents.

  700. Caroline on January 3, 2016 at 3:01 am

    Wow, there’s so much work I have to do and I wish I wouldn’t have started today (two days before I have to go back to work) to begin my goal setting and y renewing. Thankful that God’s timing is perfect and mine is not, so even though I wish I could rewind time to have more days to myself to do dream with God I can trust that there’s reason for me starting now. That being said, here is my reflection:

    What worked for me this past year:
    – I fully submitted to The Lord for my marriage and it came into so much fruition it’s unbelievable.
    – The Lord fully transformed us, equipped us, and blessed our marriage
    – Tithing and The Lord giving it back to us
    – Learning to be more honest wth myself
    – I am surviving my job by being blessed with great co-worker. We are all miserable together and all laugh through it together.
    – Joined a women’s small group
    – Great relationship with my mother. For the first time, we went a whole year without fighting

    What hasn’t worked:
    – Patience in marriage – arguments that weren’t so great
    – Self-loathing
    – Not paying attention to my health
    – Easily distracted and procrastinating
    – Not handling stress well

    Thank you so much for being an inspiration and letting God use you to minster to women all over the world <3

  701. Silvia on January 3, 2016 at 3:57 am

    WOW!! what an amazing giveaway!! I see so many awesome items and hope to win so that it could help me have a more successful and productive year!

  702. Robin on January 3, 2016 at 4:12 am

    I paid it forward today by giving to my church’s grocery closet.

  703. Kimberley Patterson on January 3, 2016 at 5:35 am

    Some great stuff here! Working my way through powersheets planning for the first time! Excited!!

  704. Melissa on January 3, 2016 at 5:41 am

    I am just digging into the PowerSheets and starting to read Make It Happen!! This is so very exciting and life changing! Thank you Lara for doing what you do – you truly make a difference to all of us!!

  705. Joanna Wishard on January 3, 2016 at 12:21 pm

    After a great chat with a great friend yesterday 2016 is the year of me! To own my faith, my new role as a Mama, a manager of a store within a company bigger than myself! I love what these power sheets offer and totally need a set!

  706. Carol on January 3, 2016 at 12:56 pm

    I just found your website, and desperately need some goal setting help. I am a writer and photographer and it’s tough to keep all the balls in the air both in my work and personal life. I can’t wait to order Powersheets to get started. Thank you for what you do!

  707. Brittany on January 3, 2016 at 2:07 pm

    I would love to be able to share this with my mom. She’s not quite been the same since losing her mom. This just might get her excited about life again. Thank you!

  708. April on January 3, 2016 at 4:37 pm

    This is such a helpful series! Thank you for putting all of this great, thoughtful information together!

  709. Katie Wilkin on January 3, 2016 at 5:26 pm

    Step One

    Chasing Perfect…This resonates so deeply for me. Every day I wake up and tell myself that today I will not rush; today I will not yell; today I will take time to enjoy the small things. But every day I fail. I’m in a constant state of trying to keep our house in perfect order. I have this grand idea of what I wish it looked like, constantly comparing it to others. In reality, my house will never be perfect! We L
    IVE here! I’m raising two small children and have pets that we love dearly, and the expectation that my house should look like it’s ready for a showing at the drop of a hat is ridiculous. Yet I can’t let that nagging urge go. And each night, those feeling leave me feeling defeated and guilty after a day of stress, yelling, and realizing I missed out on moments to spend with my girls. I acknowledge that I need this to be an area of focus and growth within myself, and in 2016 I will make it happen!

    I am also ready to let go of the negative chatter from others around me and continue to pursue official nonprofit status for Team Alexa Fighting Back! I can list a million reasons why I might fail at this, or why I will never be able to get it all together, but I’d rather list the reasons why I CAN! I recognize the need to continue supporting the families in our area who are facing the diagnosis of cancer with their children. They need to know that they are not alone in this fight! There are also too many children around the world who deserve better treatments, and funds to find a cure are needed more than ever. Cancer is the number one killer by disease of our children, and they need us to be a voice! I do this in honor of my sweet Alexa and to carry her memory forward. I know in my heart it is what I am supposed to do. I acknowledge that I need to pick myself up, dust off the negativity, and I will make it happen in 2016!

  710. Katie Wilkin on January 3, 2016 at 5:37 pm

    Posting Steps here to hold myself accountable!

    Step Two

    How am I? That’s kind of a loaded question. 2015 was a year of extreme heartache that rocked me to the core, and and year of extreme joy after welcoming our rainbow baby into the family. It’s set me on one of the worst emotional roller coaster rides ever, and I still haven’t regained my footing. I’m not going to say I’m moving forward, as I don’t think I’m there yet, but I am looking forward, and working towards the goal of finally finding some sort of peace.

    Step 3

    What worked in 2015?
    Friendship, honesty, community involvement, and LOTS of LOVE! These things carried me through the life changing events that our family went through, and it is still working today. Our community pulled together and honored our sweet angel in the most beautiful way, and I’ve always had someone there to lean on when my husband and I needed it most. We surely have been blessed.

  711. Cat von Hassel-Davies on January 3, 2016 at 5:42 pm

    Thank you for this! You don’t know how much I need this! I downloaded your first chapter and will be delving in today to start my new me in 2016!

  712. Robin on January 3, 2016 at 6:08 pm

    I gave encouragement to my nephew who left for PT Training today.

  713. Machelle on January 3, 2016 at 8:07 pm

    I love working through this series every year. It is always so refining and a good way to refocus. It is also so cool to look back over what I’ve written in past years while working through this series, and see all the ways God has been faithful!

    This year I’ve been thankful for time and community within our bible study group. The friendship and support there is so valuable. I am also so thankful to look back and see how much I grew through more consistent quiet times this year and how much that feeds me daily!

  714. Shelby S. on January 3, 2016 at 11:01 pm

    So grateful to you and excited to try out these ideas!

  715. amoryskaggs on January 3, 2016 at 11:01 pm

    I hope i win this! So sad to miss out on the power sheets for January!

  716. amoryskaggs on January 3, 2016 at 11:07 pm

    what was good– I had my second baby in June & My dad was declared cancer free!!

  717. kate on January 3, 2016 at 11:50 pm

    This is so amazing. I’m just so sad that I didn’t find out about this resource until everything was sold out! Praying I am able to win!

  718. Julie D. on January 4, 2016 at 12:03 am

    I am so thankful for your encouragement and the tools to go forward and make our lives better! I love the step-by-step questions in my powersheets and love how you share your heart in yours. This year is going to be better! I can feel it! Thank you!

  719. Natalie on January 4, 2016 at 12:21 am

    Looking forward to reading this book and considering getting Powersheets!

  720. Julie D. on January 4, 2016 at 12:27 am

    My friend is preparing for her only daughter’s wedding and I texted her to encourage her as she prepares for this big event and reminded her to take care of herself in the process and enjoy each moment!

  721. Melody on January 4, 2016 at 1:39 am

    The best thing about 2015 was deciding that I wanted things to be different and going to a Christian counselor. The second best was investing in friendships.

  722. FJ on January 4, 2016 at 2:15 am

    I am so inspired by your work. Your blog helps me to remain grounded and grateful. Thank you for helping me along in this wonderful journey!

  723. Jan on January 4, 2016 at 2:30 am

    I’m working through these worksheets for 2016 now and LOVING the insight I’m getting. This is amazing! Thank you!

  724. Kathleen Sullivan on January 4, 2016 at 3:16 am

    I learned that I need to place God first, it doesn’t hurt to be bold, and that my family and friends matter!

  725. niambi on January 4, 2016 at 4:09 am

    this is awesome!

  726. Jennifer on January 4, 2016 at 4:18 am

    I loved reading this post and many of the comments above my own. I am feeling even more encouraged, inspired and determined to live my life on purpose. 2015 had some huge milestones for me but in-between those milestones my body and spirit took a beating. I let fear, anxiety, worry and perfection take the lead. I am saying NO to those emotions and I will let faith and trust in God guide me in 2016.

  727. Jessica Brown on January 4, 2016 at 4:53 am

    I can’t wait for all of the goal setting that’s to come in 2016! I’m going to be setting aside a lot of time the next couple of weeks.

  728. Katrina on January 4, 2016 at 12:37 pm

    STEP ONE: What have you been chasing? Order, perfection, control, acceptance, status quo.
    STEP TWO: How are you? Insufficient, alone, overwhelmed, a mess.
    STEP THREE: What worked in 2015? Letting go of what makes sense and letting God direct our family… especially the addition of our sweet little sticky mess of a baby boy sitting with me now. Praying and faith are what have sustained me. In 2016… I’m hoping to let go of much of the above baggage. I want to say yes to what God has in store for who I am. There is no perfect box that we all fit into & I feel like every time I forget that I allow more stress and anxiety to creep in. I’m hoping to reestablish yet again with our families upcoming move & to be able to support and teach my older children as successfully & drama free as possible 🙂 Getting through tween years with homeschooling in a new town while having our new little guy in the mix is certain to be an adventure. Deep breath… here we go.

  729. Laura Ann on January 4, 2016 at 2:27 pm

    My husband and I moved to London about a year and half ago. Settling into life in the UK has been a lot more challenging than we originally anticipated. Despite sharing the English language, there are massive cultural differences between the US and the UK, both in the workplace and socially. We moved for my job in what is called a company secondment (fancy word for changing offices abroad) – which meant my husband’s job did not transfer over. So we spent the first year living in London on my income, while my husband searched for a job (and let me tell you, the London job market is tough to crack).

    STEP ONE: What have you been chasing?
    For most of the first year in the UK, I felt out of control – different workplace norms, no social circle or support system, and an unemployed spouse. I tried to take control of any moving piece within my radius. At the same time, I was also trying to keep up appearances. All my friends – and much of my family – on Facebook expects us to live this glamorous lifestyle in London and travel to exotic destinations.

    STEP TWO: How are you?
    I am better than I was six months ago, which is better than the six months prior to that. 2015 has been a tough year on so many levels. My husband and I have been on so many emotional and financial roller coasters that sometimes we did not know which end was up. I think I am only now coming to realise how much anger and frustration I have felt in moving to another country. We did not tell a lot of people about my husband’s job situation, so trying (and failing) to live up to other’s expectations (fancy living, travel) has been exhausting. When we did reach out for help with my company, I was told that the expectation was to ‘act like an adult’ – meaning that I was on my own in this foreign country with no support from my company (which was not what I was told during the interview process).

    One blessing in 2015 was that my husband found a job. However he absolutely hates his role and what he is doing. He is bitterly angry and frustrated and constantly rages about the smallest to the largest things about work, yet it consumes his entire thinking. He has given up all hobbies and does not go out with friends anymore, so engrossed is he with trying to prove himself with this company and make it through this project. I am often on the fence about whether to just ask him to quit – we desperately need the income but I do not like who he has turned into. Our household is very tense at night and on weekends when he is home. He is looking for other opportunities but in the meantime, he is intensely unhappy. This is emotionally draining for me as well, as I tiptoe around him, unsure whether he needs me to take the role of comforter or advisor.

    STEP THREE: What worked in 2015?
    There are 3 main areas that have been working for us. At the beginning of 2015, we started attending events hosted by an ex-pat community called FOCUS. We absolutely love the people who run it and all the ex-pats we have met. These are not just Americans, but Italians, French, Germans…we have met so many different people and have been exposed to so many different cultures. It has been an amazing experience and has helped us feel more settled into living in London.

    In April, we flew our cat over from the US. A friend had been taking care of him (for a year, bless her!) and we were finally able to afford to fly him to live with us. His arrival has really made London feel like home, and he loves our flat and watching all the pigeons on neighbouring rooftops.

    Living in London brings all sort of interesting tax implications, and we have tried five or six different methods of tracking expenses and budgeting but nothing worked – until we found Money Wiz. It’s an app (also available for a Mac) that links to your bank account and categorises your spending (similar to Mint.com). We can also use it to track budgets and review spending trends. It has made sorting through finances so much easier.

    Bonus: Good Things Ahead
    I often hear that living abroad either brings a couple closer together or pulls them apart completely. My husband and I have had many heart to heart conversations, and I truly pray we fall into the former category. Looking ahead to 2016, we are working through these Goal Setting steps together. I was too late to purchase the Powersheets before they all sold out, but I bought a Moleskin planner notebook and am copying all the questions and quotes into the planner. We each have one so we can write our own personal journeys, but we’re actively discussing and talking through them together. It is helping me to understand what he is going through, and I think the same is true for him. It is good to be able to step outside yourself and understand what others are experiencing. Like the saying, ‘Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.’

  730. Kimberly on January 4, 2016 at 3:40 pm

    I love your book! I inhaled it! I’m going back through and answering the questions, and praying over it. Thank you for sharing your blessings with His people!!

    • Lara on January 4, 2016 at 5:02 pm

      I’m so grateful it encouraged you! My pleasure!

  731. Kimberly on January 4, 2016 at 3:48 pm

    Encouraging others: I learned from a dear friend, Gr8teful Chick Ris (on periscope) to reach out to someone anytime God places them on your heart. He has used this principle to grow me as well as love on others through me.

  732. Molly Banas on January 4, 2016 at 3:49 pm

    I can’t wait for 2016! Best year yet!

  733. Sandra Roche' on January 4, 2016 at 4:17 pm

    I can’t wait to make 2016 my year!

  734. Chantal on January 4, 2016 at 4:31 pm

    My answers to the first three steps:

    I have been chasing perfection, success, and happiness. I’ve somehow created this vision that I need to have all three at the same time, or else none of them will be achieved. I have worked hard and pushed myself but when I don’t see these things happening, I get down on myself. How am I? I am stressed, overwhelmed, and busy. But I try to find the positive, as I am happy, I am excited for what’s coming, and I am healthy. What worked in 2015? Well I created a business, and gained a lot of business skills that I never thought I would. I also have grown my network and have stepped out of my comfort zone of being a shy person, to meet people and build strong, valuable relationships!

  735. Rachel Heckmann on January 4, 2016 at 5:13 pm

    I am so encouraged by this! I am thankful that I was able to start my business in 2015. God has been SO faithful to me.

  736. Jen on January 4, 2016 at 6:31 pm

    I just found your page through other wedding planners and I love it!!

  737. Cassidy on January 4, 2016 at 8:26 pm

    It’s so encouraging to read about your joyful year that involved saying yes AND no to certain opportunities.

  738. Mandy on January 4, 2016 at 8:28 pm

    I am very excited to take the journey and complete my power sheets! I bit nervous too, to be open and honest, and to use the right pen and make it pretty!!!!

  739. Shauna on January 4, 2016 at 9:48 pm

    I have been working through my Prep work and am very excited for what this year will bring

  740. Annerien on January 4, 2016 at 9:56 pm

    So glad I came across these posts today, just as I was about to start my normal Goal setting procedure – jotting down almost the same list I did not achieve last year. So here goes.

    Step 1: Last year, yet again, I chased living a life of purpose on purpose. I have learned that I have a purpose where I am right now and not only necessarily where I am heading. But still, no fulfilment. Rather I was influenced by people and circumstances. Trying to have everything figured out and planned before I take action results in no or little action. Chasing selflessness but in the end having a selfish expectation of others.

    Step 2: How am I? Pretty beaten down when I look back on the last year, 10 years. Turning 30 just the other day did not help much 🙂 What have I done? What have I accomplished? Have I really made a difference somewhere? It feels like I am failing my family, my marriage my purpose not walking in my full potential. But all of these things family, spouse, friends actually influence your daily being, sometimes to much. Especially when you start focusing on the negative instead of the positive. This year I want to grow in the area of living and acting in the moment – listening to Gods voice and acting NOW. Making good choices and being His hands and feet not by my own power.

    Step 3: This year there was a few months I made time to be creative, being involved in 3 friends Kitchen teas and Weddings. Late nights, but I had fun creating stationery. Towards the end of the year we started meeting up as young married woman, encouraging each other. Started exercising again, being kept accountable by a good friend and realising I can get up and gym before work some mornings. Opened our home to a great bunch of people from church having weekly Bible study. Equipping myself in my career by intentionally focusing on areas, reading and doing research to help others.

    The reason for these – Made time for what I wanted to do and enjoyed doing.
    Accountability – key to being encouraged.
    Taking up responsibility – to equip yourself and others.

    Next! 🙂

  741. Sara Schrock on January 5, 2016 at 12:05 am

    So glad I stumbled upon this website–I have found new inspiration and motivation for 2016! Just wish the powersheets weren’t sold out! 🙂 But, looking forward to getting the book and then getting the sheets when they are available! Here’s to 2016!!

    • Lara on January 5, 2016 at 6:53 pm

      Yay, I’m excited for you Sara!

  742. Katie on January 5, 2016 at 1:59 am

    Love this!

  743. Vanessa L on January 5, 2016 at 3:21 am

    So glad my googling brought me here! I need to set some goals for 2016 to focus my attention and get our foster care file completed.

  744. Vanessa L on January 5, 2016 at 3:23 am

    I encouraged my mom in all her hard work with my grandma this holiday season.

  745. Jodi on January 5, 2016 at 3:58 am

    I am so excited to get started on my 2016 goals using your inspiration and knowledge!!

  746. Ricci Neefe on January 5, 2016 at 4:33 am

    This is amazing! And just what I need for the New Year!
    Step 1: I have been chasing perfection, approval and position! Making me feel frustrated, less than and not true to myself and stressed!
    Step 2: Overall, I am feeling I made some progress in some of the categories, but I don’t feel I accomplished as much as I could have. Is is because I didn’t have clear goals ( or the opportunity to do your goal setting series for 2015)? There are many areas that I did not focus on or maybe chose to ignore that feel I am in the same place I was the beginning of 2015. or even 2014. Especially financially, relationships and physical space.
    Step 3 tomnorrow!

  747. Sara on January 5, 2016 at 2:31 pm

    What a great giveaway! I’m sitting here trying to decide which bundle is the best one to purchase, but this would be the ultimate, wouldn’t it?!

  748. Megan Whit on January 5, 2016 at 3:32 pm

    I am really loving these garden pages! They are perfect!

  749. Mariah on January 5, 2016 at 4:50 pm

    This is exactly what I have been looking for! A fresh way to help me be more well rounded and focuse on what truly matters in my heart! Just looking through this has me inspired to make this the best year ever!

  750. Kristy Pauly on January 5, 2016 at 4:54 pm

    Step 1. I have been chasing success, money, recognition. Approval from me team, (so basically the perfect life) it makes me feel tired, stressed, smaller in more ways then one, like I will neve be good enough

    Step 2, Over all I am okay, right now my home feels cramped, I want to get all debt paid off (we made a huge dent)I don’t feel I am really seeking out my passions, I want to be a better leader and be more present with my daughter, I am looking forward to growing my team and our family in 2016, It will be messy and I have no idea what it will look like but I am going for with lots of grace from myself and lots of prayers to God!

    Step3
    ~took lots of trips with Nolan to the DR, Arkansas, Vegas, Colorado
    ~lots of growth on my team
    ~a once in a life time trip to Vegas with the best group of friends
    ~Em started preschool and loves it
    ~I was asked to do an opportunity call

  751. michelle on January 5, 2016 at 5:05 pm

    never really do anything for new year, but this could change my whole thought process

  752. Linda on January 5, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    I’m so very grateful to you, Lara, for sharing thru this process. You have such a gift. Thank you for using it to His glory!

  753. Kelly on January 5, 2016 at 7:10 pm

    This would be an amazing start to the New Year!

  754. Lauren on January 5, 2016 at 8:10 pm

    So thankful for the focus on progress and not perfection, normally goal setting overwhelms me and I end up setting goals I can’t realistically accomplish and then it sets up a cycle of defeat. Thank you for the focus on gratitude! This past year has been one of really small but important steps and taking the time to be thankful for those small steps has been so encouraging for the foundation those small steps have created for this new year!

  755. Amanda on January 5, 2016 at 8:27 pm

    Thank you for sharing this!

  756. Heather Ann on January 5, 2016 at 9:51 pm

    SO excited to get started with the prayer journals in Feb!!

  757. Caroline (Djursholm, Sweden) on January 5, 2016 at 10:36 pm

    I’m still working through the Powersheets. The kids’ christmas school holiday is a blessing and a challenge…

    For 2015 I’m most grateful for my family, my kids and husband, but also my parents since they are getting older and I’m grateful for everyday that we spend together and they have with the children. I would really love if my children will remember my parents when they are adults.. Get to know them, and experience the loving, great persons that they are.

    My words for 2016 seems to be (not 100% sure yet) relationships and health.

  758. Mandy S on January 5, 2016 at 10:43 pm

    Thank you SO much for writing these blogs AND for hosting such a fantastic giveaway! I am ecstatic for the possibilities that this year holds!

  759. Mendy Sass on January 6, 2016 at 1:20 am

    I’m just discovering your blog and hope to get the Powersheets when they become available again. I’m feeling stagnant in 2016 and hoping a little goal setting, prayer and thought will change that.

  760. Amber on January 6, 2016 at 2:28 am

    This was such an encouraging post to read. It’s clear through it all God is in control even when things start feeling crazy for us!! So excited for this series and what is in store for 2016.

  761. Megan Lewellen on January 6, 2016 at 2:45 am

    Thank you so much for showing us your process with the periscopes! They have really helped me to face my fear and dive into my power sheets.

  762. Joanna Hyatt on January 6, 2016 at 4:49 am

    1. I’ve been chasing balance, a robust career (I’m self-employed and raising two little girls at home) and affirmation in numbers (social media, audience sizes, speaking engagements, etc)

    2. How am I feeling? Tired. Distracted, stuck, behind, conflicted, restless. So clearly, this isn’t working as is!

    3. What Worked: Growing our family…we had our second child, a baby girl, this past August! It was a year full of family time, both with our immediate and extended. So grateful for that. And had some new experiences as a family, traveling, joining a bible study. And my faith was stretched so much, which was a huge gift.

  763. Kathleen Sullivan on January 6, 2016 at 1:32 pm

    what didn’t work this year for me was not spending enough time with family, not placing a great enough importance with people who matter. What did work in 2015 was building and strengthening my relationships. My daily quiet time worked, my friends who made me feel loved were such a great “base camp” when I was weary and tired of life. They were such a great rock to lean on!

  764. Erin on January 6, 2016 at 4:57 pm

    I love everything about this! Cheers to a productive 2016!

  765. Steph on January 6, 2016 at 5:38 pm

    Things I am grateful for from 2015- family and their never ending cuddles and kisses, that God saw me through the pain of my miscarriage and is holding our sweet baby River in his arms, my ever growing toddler son Julian and the magic he exudes with his smile, and that God isn’t finished with my marriage yet even though I’ve felt like throwing in the towel many times.

  766. Kiley on January 6, 2016 at 7:34 pm

    This is awesome! What an incredible inspiration to start the new year off right. Way to go Lara and team!

  767. Marissa on January 6, 2016 at 8:37 pm

    Just started Make It Happen and cannot wait to start my power sheets.

  768. kasse on January 6, 2016 at 8:59 pm

    My goal for this year is clarity, vision, and organization for my life and business in 2016

  769. Tricia on January 7, 2016 at 4:50 am

    Purpose over perfection. Love!

  770. kayla on January 7, 2016 at 4:54 am

    Just started! My goal is to keep doing well in school (just got into cambridge and held a 4.0 for 4 semesters straight with honors all with the help of prayer) and to encourage those who were struggling as I was. Also, to become better organized and maintain a cohesive vision of my future and a tangible plan on how to get there. Thank you for sharing! You are my inspiration

  771. Tricia on January 7, 2016 at 4:54 am

    I encouraged a friend by telling her the ways in which she has inspired growth in my faith.

  772. Kaitlin on January 7, 2016 at 6:09 am

    I have experienced so much sudden change in the last year that it makes me realize how grateful I am. This past summer I was able to help build a house for a family in the Dominican Republic, as well as help with an outreach sports camp in England. Now, I am in college and want to continue to make a difference. So I am setting forth by creating a list of books to read this year with Make it Happen included.

  773. Cassidy on January 7, 2016 at 2:00 pm

    What a fun giveaway!

  774. Yana Sytay on January 7, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    I am so excited for this year. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and learning to trust God each day that He gives. Thank you Lara for all you’ve done.

  775. Sherrie on January 7, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    This is a very exciting giveaway!

  776. Laura on January 7, 2016 at 7:37 pm

    So INSPIRATIONAL

  777. Jennifer on January 7, 2016 at 10:19 pm

    1.This year I have been chasing this pain in my heart for months now. I have been going around and around about the pain someone caused me and can’t seem to let it go or let the person go or forgive. It has been breaking me down mentally and physically. I don’t even recognize myself anymore.
    2. How am I? I am hurt and afraid all the time that I will be hurt and betrayed again by someone I really counted on. I am blessed to have a great family and friends around me but they do not know what I have been dealing with and it makes everything worse. I am constantly acting like everything is okay but inside I am a wreck.
    3.The birth of my newest nephew. He is perfect and healthy and came just at a time when i needed love the most. I am so grateful for him. And the surgeon that through the Lord’s work was able to remove the cancer from my grandfather and let us have him for a little while longer.

  778. Dianna on January 8, 2016 at 3:39 am

    Today I told one of my quiet students how much I enjoy having her in my class. Her bright eyes just lit up

    • Lara on January 8, 2016 at 6:48 pm

      I love this so much!!

  779. Omorinre Alonge on January 8, 2016 at 4:30 pm

    I told my friends to truly seek and trust God for where He wants them to go for further education and also encouraged another one to trust God with her studying and her grades, she didn’t do so well last semester.

  780. Tanya on January 8, 2016 at 9:02 pm

    1. Grateful for clarity and a wake-up Call to what’s next in terms of purposeful work. 2016 will be a year of intentionally building on that.
    2. the wonderful marriage that is in the works all because we choose to focus on making it Christ-centered and loving each other.
    3. My beautiful 2 yr old who brings oh so much joy.
    4. the intentional time we’ve put in to spending more time with family. the game nights, park dates, and so much goodness!

  781. Megan Lewellen on January 8, 2016 at 9:34 pm

    1) Perfection, Approval!
    2) Last year I felt lonely, worried, like I’m not enough. This year I am excited about this process and purposeful goals
    3)Prioritizing family, being intentional with my daughter’s schedule, prayer, journaling, finding a church, learning to wait
    Good Things Ahead) Hope’s second half of first grade, Trip to Alaska, possible summer move to Alaska, starting school to finish my degree

  782. Silvia on January 8, 2016 at 10:27 pm

    I just found out about Power sheets, I’m so excited! This is just what I need right now. Pre-ordering now. thank you so much!

  783. Katya on January 9, 2016 at 2:38 am

    I am from Russia! But I dreamed about having this great tool – Powersheets!!! It’s in my hands now and I’m really looking forward in filling them up but mostly to be able to MAKE THINGS HAPPEN!!!

    What have I been chasing?
    I can not say that I’ve been chasing to be perfect because I know that I am not perfect in anything… I am not as great homemaker whose house is perfectly organized and great dinner for the husband is on a table (actually I can not cook at all! Sorry to say this but during 13 years of marriage my husband is preparing food ALL HE TIME!). I am not that great mom who knows all the early development methods for children and reads books before nap (most of the time I am soooooo tired that I fall asleep earlier than my 2 children!). But even through all of this I tried to chase success and approval from other people… But realizing that I am not significant got me depressed very often during 2015!!! I felt like I’m not great in anything! I felt like I’m this grey spot on the Earth… thousands people around me invent smth, start their business at early age or are great ministers and so on…. I know that I’m not perfect but I am who I am and thats my greatest priority for this year ti find who I am and what is Gods calling for my life. While I am discovering I’ll try to be the best mom I can be and the best wife I can be and the best business owner I can be!!!!

  784. Katya on January 9, 2016 at 2:47 am

    I just spent one hour talking to my friend who is going through a divorce process now. Very sad about that! But I tried to encourage her first of all to continue to live, to take good care of herself and children, to find her peace in Jesus and to trust Him… He knows everything! He takes care of her! and you never know whats next… I believe in a miraculous God!

  785. EK on January 9, 2016 at 4:23 am

    1) the ability to do it ALL and do it ALL well
    2) Feeling cluttered, both mentally and in physical space; lack of energy and motivation because of burnout
    3) Saving paid off through buying our first home; completed my masters degree, and investing in my family through 2 getaway trips

  786. EK on January 9, 2016 at 4:28 am

    I was challenged to text specific thanks to a friend to encourage her for serving our community group!

  787. Sarah on January 9, 2016 at 1:50 pm

    These PowerSheets are incredible! So inspiring.

  788. Sarah on January 9, 2016 at 1:53 pm

    I told my friend how much I admire her strength and grace while dealing with some scary life changes.

  789. Denise Veal on January 9, 2016 at 3:01 pm

    I am going to order your book today! I just started reading your blog today. I love it. Congrats on your adoption. Three of our four children are adopted. It is an honor and a privilege.

  790. Denise Veal on January 9, 2016 at 3:04 pm

    I encouraged my youngest son this morning. I told him how proud I was of him.

  791. Carly on January 9, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    I’m making a conscious effort to encourage my son today, to lift him up , to point out the things about him that I love to see.

  792. Heather on January 9, 2016 at 9:10 pm

    I was able to encourage a friend who is going through a difficult time with an article that was so helpful and encouraging to me. Instead of praying that the Lord would take our trials away and make things better we should instead ask the Lord to make the trials and suffering COUNT in our lives. Pray that He makes them work for His glory. Such an encouraging and helpful perspective !

  793. Tia CB on January 9, 2016 at 10:40 pm

    Awesome inspiration for starting the new year FRESH

  794. Glorian on January 10, 2016 at 3:20 am

    What have you been chasing?
    – Control, perfection, approval/admiration, survival and excellence at my job, knowledge, my “perfect body”

    How are you?
    – I generally try to stay happy and optimistic but I have been feeling a lot of anxiety, stress, and worry about multiple aspect of my life. I’m worried that I won’t be able to do it all or disappoint others and be looked down upon. I’m afraid I’ll make the wrong choices and be judged for it. I’m afraid that I’ll be selfish and choose what I want as opposed to what God wants. I’m afraid of feeling alone or not being enough.
    – On the flip side, I am proud of the steps of taken this past year. I’m learning to let go and let live. I’m making more healthy decisions and seeing myself in a more positive light because God made this amazing body and I was made to bring him glory and to help others. I’m proud of being simply “more present.” Lastly, I’m becoming a stronger woman and strengthening my relationship and faith in God.

    What worked in 2015?
    – Relying on trusting in God! It’s only by truly depending on him that he would speak to me in the still and silent moments of my life in subtle ways; whether it be through someone or something that wouldn’t have caught my attention otherwise. It was through me purposefully slowing down and living in the present that I was able to more fully experience these wonderful, personal moments with God.

    Looking forward to working through the rest of the series and thanks for the thought provoking questions! I already feel a sense of peace!

  795. Bailey Robert on January 10, 2016 at 4:29 am

    Ah! You know I love this <3 Praying for you in your time away, prepping for the GREAT things to come!

    Below are my answers to this post's steps 🙂

    1. What have you been chasing? // I have been chasing all sorts of things. Perfection. Immediate gratification. Approval of my professors and peers. Fame on the internet and among the gals. NONE of this is worth the hustle that’s been draining my heart! I want to chase after the Lord and HIS dreams for my life instead!

    2. How are you? // Tonight I am very well! A great heat to heart with a sweet friend tackling the tough stuff on my mind did so much good for my soul. My final semester of grad school is starting on Monday and goodness am I excited to see what the Lord does!

    3. What worked in 2015? // Taking time away during my lunch break to journal in my Bible, discipleship with my sweet girls here at OSU, meal prepping ahead of time, logging my spending, homework done on the weekends, coffee dates and in-person connecting, Delight Ministries studies on Saturdays, choosing to put down the phone, monthly goal setting, keeping my to-do list doable.

    4. Good things ahead (bonus if you want to include this!): directing Almost, Maine! Graduating, moving to a new city, the Hope Spoken conference, discipleship this spring, visiting friends in Seattle for a wedding, making what matters happen!

  796. sarah on January 10, 2016 at 4:47 pm

    So happy to be working through the powersheets & the posts. It’s so easy to look at the last year and see what didn’t happen, so instead I’m focusing on what did happen. Going through chronologically, month by month.

  797. Sarah O. on January 10, 2016 at 6:11 pm

    I’m so excited to try this process! This looks like just what I need to get things done!

  798. Aggie Aviso on January 10, 2016 at 10:51 pm

    I am in LOVE with your book! I just started reading it and it seems so uncanny that you are blogging about MAKING THINGS HAPPEN this 2016. You have always been an inspiration, and this time instead of just reading your posts, I aim to actually work alongside your tips. Hopefully I can share some of mine soon. Thanks for the awesome giveaway!

    • Lara on January 12, 2016 at 11:24 am

      I’m so grateful you’ve been encouraged, Aggie!

  799. Karen on January 11, 2016 at 1:59 am

    Hi Lara! I have been inspired by you through the way you live your life. It is evident that you have a heart for God and for helping others. To see how you incorporate His love and grace in your life and exuding it to others is awesome.
    I have been wanting to do something for goals for this new year and I am so glad I saw your post. Here goes:
    1) I have been chasing perfection for what feels like forever, in almost every area of my life. I have felt that if I could get everything right and do everything well then people will think I have everything together and I will not be seen as weak. It’s exhausting! I also am a big worrier. This manifests in almost every area of my life, including my relationships and it is taking its toll and it needs to change. I’m slowly realizing that there is often growth in the messy baby steps it takes to get somewhere and I need to allow myself to be messy and stumble.

    2) I feel uneasy as I come into this vulnerability. To many unanswered questions that I cannot know the answer to yet about how things will turn out. I recently read something about worrying being absence of faith.. and that struck me. I know I am not where I want to be in my relationship with God, but by worrying, I am taking myself farther from Him. I also feel hopeful for 2016. I feel that since I am realizing some of these things, I know I am on a personal journey for growth.

    3) Some things in 2015 that worked are:
    *My health was overall good
    and I learned to take better care of myself with my food allergies.
    *I learned new crafting skills and even went by myself to some workshops (new for me, I always want to go with someone)
    and I learned that going by myself forced me outside my comfort zone and to make new friends.
    *I celebrated 2 years of dating with my boyfriend
    and we have learned so much together about love and communication.
    *I started Graduate school.
    and I learned that it is hard but I am in the right place.

    Thank you for these prompts and thoughts to help us all to new and great year. 🙂

  800. Karen on January 11, 2016 at 2:00 am

    Oh! and for good things ahead.. a new semester of classes and learning how to help others, learning new things I need to work on in my relationships with others and with God, friend’s birthdays, vacation time on break to go home!

  801. Abiah on January 11, 2016 at 2:02 am

    I am so glad someone posted this on Instagram so I could reconnect with Lara and her community. My soul needed this approach in 2016; no more harsh “achieve/control more” messages!

  802. Alyssa on January 11, 2016 at 3:19 am

    So excited to start my PowerSheets!!

  803. Kim on January 11, 2016 at 3:57 am

    I am so excited to try this new concept of goal setting. I am really serious this year about learning to set goals and see all that God has in store for me. I have always been living by the seat of my pants and ready to start living on purpose and making things happen! Here is to 2016 and all the great things God will do!

  804. Abby C on January 11, 2016 at 8:15 am

    Thank you for doing this yearly! I’m so excited for the rest of 2016 how God can break my heart and use me to encourage the people that surrounds me, be used to build His Kingdom

  805. Ashley on January 11, 2016 at 3:16 pm

    Thank you Lara for your honesty and transparency! You are inspiring as a working mom and have been such an encouragement to me! 🙂

  806. Kim on January 11, 2016 at 3:29 pm

    Working on my steps and goals! Will share more soon!

  807. Tianna Yentzer on January 11, 2016 at 5:00 pm

    So excited to start working on some of these reflections and goals!

  808. Susan on January 11, 2016 at 8:23 pm

    I recently learned about your blog from my friend Karisa, who is a blogger as well (https://mujerradiante.com – her blog is focused for Spanish speaking women). She recommended your material and I was so excited to buy the whole year power sheets and sadly when I went on your website they were no longer available 🙁 I have been telling others in the past couple of weeks about your blog and testimony. It has been a tremendous encouragement to me and I have been able to encourage others to make things happen this year! May the Lord continue to bless your work and use you in mighty ways for His honor and glory!

  809. Janae on January 11, 2016 at 9:51 pm

    I am so thankful I jumped on the band wagon and got my Powersheets, I wasn’t sure about when I first heard about it, but listening to Lara Casey on Katch, I have been changed. I am learning so much about myself. I have to tell you, I would love to win a planner!!!

  810. Kate on January 11, 2016 at 10:50 pm

    This series is really resonating with me this year as I brace for a year filled with change. I’m excited for the challenges that lie ahead, and grateful that I found my way to your site so I can remind myself to be thoughtful throughout the process!

  811. Kelli Stegmeier on January 12, 2016 at 2:12 am

    My daughter recommended this to me and I cannot wait to get started. This blog post is amazing. I look forward to seeing what happens as I allow the Lord to stretch and for me in areas I never imagined.

  812. Abby on January 12, 2016 at 4:28 pm

    2016 is going to rock.

  813. Mandy on January 12, 2016 at 5:19 pm

    What an awesome giveaway I am reading Make it Happen now and am loving it

  814. BriAnne on January 12, 2016 at 5:52 pm

    I am SO thankful for this series. It’s so powerful and really has helped me get started on my self discovery journey. THANK YOU!

  815. Wilma on January 12, 2016 at 8:31 pm

    Thank you so much !!!! I finished the make it happen book, And my heart is full of grace, Lara you really help me with your light, thank you so much.

  816. Brittany on January 12, 2016 at 11:31 pm

    i just finished my Powersheets prep. It took longer than I wanted it to, but I am SO thankful for the process and where my goals will take me!

  817. Ekaterina on January 13, 2016 at 1:35 am

    I try to support and encourage my friend whose business was not going well from the previous year … The reason was some of his wrong personal decisions. Just today I told him that he needs to admit that he was wrong and he is in charge of his life, rise up and start to make things happen!

  818. Jennifer on January 13, 2016 at 1:39 am

    Lara,

    I really is amazing how Heavenly Father works in each of our lives individually. I honestly am not sure how I stumbled across you…it almost feels as if Heavenly Father kept throwing your books in my path until I finally took notice. I’m terrible at that…needing God to all but slap me over the head with what He is trying to reach me with. It humbles me to realize that He still tries…He is continually trying to reach me.

    So…I’m hear to listen and commit to what He obviously wants me to pay attention to! I have started reading your book ” Make It Happen”. Both this series of blogs posts and your book are both refreshing and painful at the same time. Did you mean them to be? It’s the kind of uncomfortable mixture that can only come from God…

    That being said, I wanted to answer your challenge.

    What have I been chasing?

    I’m not sure that I realized I have been chasing anything until recently. You mentioned both here and in your book about feeling ” discontent” and that hit home for me in a way nothing else has. I have a good life. I have family and friends who care about me. I have relative peace and security. My needs, and most of my wants, are fulfilled but I still have this near overwhelming discontentment…a sense that I am not doing what I am *meant* to be doing. This feeling has lead me to multiple different paths, each leading to a dead end and a sense of failure on top of the discontent that still exists….

    I think my chase has been to over come my unwillingness to really truly change. I don’t think I am afraid…I think I am lazy. Or maybe I am afraid…afraid of letting my control of things go. Change takes too much work, though my Spirit cries for it daily now. I KNOW I am meant for more…but change is painful…

    How am I?

    Ironically, this last year was my year for change, and it has really up-ended my life a bit. Not physically…no my day to day living is similar to how it has always been, but the small steps I have taken to discover my true purpose in 2015 have left me feeling very raw and out of sync. My inner changes have created discord in areas of my life, like my relationship with my husband. I can empathize with him…if he started making drastic changes to his way of thinking and the way he approached life, I am sure I would be uncomfortable with with the changes as well. I have faith though that changes I make for the better, that bring me closer to Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father, will only bless my marriage in the long run, even with the growing pains. How am I doing…I feel vulnerable and alone a lot of the time, though I know I am not. I need to continue to strengthen my faith and learn to lean on Jesus Christ…

    What worked in 2015?

    * Spending more time learning and pondering the scriptures and my faith have done WONDERS for me…I see God’s hand all around me now, and my personal relationship with Jesus Christ has deepened in ways I didn’t realize it could. I feel that I have only begin scraped the surface of that abyss
    * I followed a prompting and pulled my children out of public school and started homeschooling. It has been…amazing. We’re a total mess…curriculum and teaching/learning styles are still VERY much in flux, but I have never been more sure that I made the right decision than I have with this one. This is the ONLY decision I made last year that allowed some of that discontentment to dissipate. I’m on the right path, and even with all of the mess and complete lack of surety on how to accomplish schooling my children, Heavenly Father guides and I follow. It is the one thing I am doing that excites me every day.
    * I got an answer to a prayer I have had for two years about the reason why we moved to where we are now living. It was a tender mercy.

    I learned that Heavenly Father is concerned for me, and loves me…despite my faults, my continual tripping up, my inability to hear Him the first time. He is ACTIVE in my life, and eager for me to continue to take one step at a time towards him. I am desperate to continue on this path towards Him.

    Lara, thank you for what you do. You ARE changing lives.

    Sincerely,
    Jennifer

  819. Jenna Gilbreath on January 13, 2016 at 3:19 am

    I love the idea of the active process of working through the good/tough questions throughout this blog and Make it Happen (which I’m currently in the middle of).
    Step 1 – A couple of months ago, I realized that I was chasing the over-achiever in me trying to seek perfection in a very demanding job. I put this above everything in my life , including my friends, family, my husband and the Lord. I looked to my work-ethic to save me from my problems and couldn’t believe it when it didn’t seem to help! Although I’ve named what I’ve been chasing, it’s been a hard process changing my heart.

    Step 2 – Thankfully how I am now is a lot better than where I was. I was struggling with anxiety and depression, because I put perfectionism as my highest priority. I made it my false idol. But God in His grace broke the chains of that bondage when I realized that I was chasing something far from Him. Things aren’t perfect, because I’m still fighting the urge to chase perfectionism. But naming my sin and calling it out has changed my world.

    Step 3 – 2015 was a year of “pruning” a lot of my sinful habits. That definitely hurt….a lot. But it definitely worked! I’m incredibly thankful for taking time to prune what was not good so that I could work on what will bear fruit. My year ended with a lot of prayer and soul searching and my 2016 year began with me resigning from my job to pursue creative passions and kick-start a small business! So that’s a very good thing to celebrate from the year!

  820. Emmylou on January 13, 2016 at 3:43 am

    My Aunt, who was just a little bit older than I am, was contemplating on doing something very positive so when we met during our family’s holiday get-together, I gave her a list of reasons of why she should start doing it inspite of her hesitation. And she did the next day. I’m glad I was able to encourage her. One of my 2016 goals is going deeper with my relationships especially family relationships.

  821. Laura on January 13, 2016 at 5:15 am

    I am keeping my fingers crossed about winning this giveaway – 2016 has big plans for me and I cannot wait!

  822. Terri on January 13, 2016 at 5:34 am

    I always look forward to this series every year. While I don’t commit to answering openly, I do try to follow along. This year I made the commitment to do the work. I am equipped with the Powersheets and book. 2016 WILL BE different! While I’ve not answered the questions openly I have done the work in my powersheets and connected with an accountability partner to share my answers.

  823. Ronke on January 13, 2016 at 11:00 am

    I am glad I found your blog again! This year, I hope to work on the Powersheets. I am ready for an amazing year!

  824. Mary on January 13, 2016 at 1:58 pm

    This is awesome!! What a wonderful series to begin the new year with!

  825. Ashley on January 13, 2016 at 3:21 pm

    This is amazing! I definitely want 2016 to be my year!

  826. Bella on January 13, 2016 at 8:23 pm

    Congratulations on prayers being answered! February is really going to be filled with love for your family.

  827. Emilylyte on January 13, 2016 at 8:58 pm

    I just found you on Instagram last night. Today I was feeling very discouraged after some difficult news. I read on your blog “His plans are better than mine”. It was just what I needed to hear.
    As soon as we get paid I’m going to place an order.
    Reading you blog is helping me to keep my focus on God and his plans for my family.

    • Lara on January 14, 2016 at 3:11 pm

      I’m so grateful He used that post to encourage you!

  828. Geomyra on January 13, 2016 at 9:32 pm

    The only way I set my goals from now on is by using the amazing Powersheets!!

    • Lara on January 14, 2016 at 3:10 pm

      I love you, friend!

  829. Mary on January 13, 2016 at 9:37 pm

    I am in my first year of using both PowerSheets and the Simplified Planner, and I have good feelings about the influence they are going to have over me! Here’s to a grace-filled 2016!

    • Lara on January 14, 2016 at 3:10 pm

      Yes! Here’s to a great 2016!

  830. Carrie on January 13, 2016 at 11:03 pm

    I would so love to win this set, we have a big year ahead of us and it would be so great to document it all as we go, to get my goals set and keep them accounted for, and to celebrate each accomplishment. 🙂

  831. Alexandra Wilkinson on January 13, 2016 at 11:06 pm

    Hi Lara, I believe the Powersheets would really help me grow this year ( my word for 2016 = Spiritual growth).

    Greetings from The Netherlands,
    Alexandra

  832. Naomi on January 13, 2016 at 11:23 pm

    I sent the postcards I got with my Powersheets out in the mail this week as notes of encouragement! AND I found a great little book of cards that you can color (like the grown up coloring books) and send to friends. They say Congrats, Hello, etc…I sent one of those out to a friend this week who just started a new job. I’m putting this in my Powersheets each month–send a note of encouragement to a friend. 🙂

    • susan on January 14, 2016 at 1:43 am

      Love this idea Naomi! Can I copy? Also curious if you’re willing to share where you found the book of cards to color? Thanks!

    • Naomi on January 15, 2016 at 12:50 am

      Of course, Susan! I picked them up at a local book store, but I’m sure you can probably get them online or your book store might be able to order them. The book is titled Don’t Quit Your Day Dream by Bethany Robertson. Published by Ulysses Press. 🙂

  833. Lacey on January 14, 2016 at 1:56 am

    Thank you for hosting such a rad give away!

  834. Raisa Monica on January 14, 2016 at 3:37 am

    I needed a change in 2016… By reading your book and doing your powersheet, surely will make it more organized and I will have guidelines through out the year… Thanks for sharing your amazing work!

  835. Lizzy on January 14, 2016 at 4:55 am

    Grateful for:
    1. Family
    2. Love
    3. Health
    4. 2016 #PowerSheets!
    5. Endless opportunity & limitless potential

  836. Lizzy on January 14, 2016 at 4:56 am

    Encourage someone post:

    Encouraged a friend to live in love and joy via text <3 🙂

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