I started journaling in 2015.
While in a season of big transitions and inner turmoil, my ministry leader asked me, “Are you processing all these things in your head somewhere?”.
I said no.
"I'll be right back" she said, and left the room, returning quickly with her own fresh journal, with her own name printed on the front and everything. She handed it to me and said, “I think you need this more than I do”.
That moment marked the beginning of a practice that has shaped my life ever since. Her name on the cover seemed to cheer me on... kept me going, believing that this internal work had value.
Journaling has given me a way to reflect on what was going on internally rather than simply hoping the current thoughts and memories would stay with me.
Spoiler: they don't!
This practice of journaling became a way of paying attention to my life, to God’s movement, and to what was being formed within me.
I typically journal a few times a week, typically half a page or a full one if I have the time.
One rhythm that has been more recently developing, though, is deep-dive times of reflection.
Periodically, especially around life transitions, a window of opportunity presents itself to take the time to stop, pray, and consider.
Whether it's to debrief a significant trip/season, or set your gaze on a future initiative, more extended time and thought are warranted.
These are important, even sacred times. For many, this is the kind of reflection that we engage in at least annually. At Soul Care, we recommend this annual rhythm as a key opportunity to step back from the daily pressures of life and gain perspective on what's going on in and around you, so you can develop your intentionality around the future.
Specifically, what do you want your future soul health to be? That's a big question that warrants time and space to prayerfully consider.
Assess where you are now.
Begin with an honest assessment of your soul’s well-being. Not where you wish you were, but where you actually are today. The good, the bad, the real! Honest reflection is SO good for your soul.
Reflect across every area of life.
Take time to look carefully at your spiritual, relational, mental and physical, financial, and vocational health. Each dimension matters. Each one plays a role in our soul's well-being.
Discern what is needed next.
As you speak with God, consider the strategic investments required for the season ahead. What support, practices, boundaries, or relationships will help you remain faithful and whole?
Do it together with others.
For accountability, for growth, for connection, and for community. Invite others to retreat with you and the new season together, considering the past, present, and future.
Reflection can be powerful in community. Change becomes more possible when someone listens to your goals and you say them out loud.
Want to host your own New Year's reflection retreat? Any format will be beneficial, but we also have a retreat guide and gathering instructions you can use if helpful!
As this new year rolls up, remember:
Your soul is precious and worthy of being guarded. This annual rhythm will serve you well. We are cheering you on, no matter whose name is on the front of your journal (if any)!
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”
Proverbs 4:23
What truly shapes your soul are the rhythms you return to again and again.
As you prepare to kick off this new year, we want to invite you into something new that has become our team's top priority. Over the last season, we have been beta testing a renewed membership experience and it is now ready: Soul Care Rhythms.
Soul Care Rhythms is built around four tried and true practices we believe are foundational for sustainable soul health, for individuals and teams alike:
Weekly check in
Monthly retreat
Quarterly spiritual direction
Annual reflection and planning
We have never been more excited about this new way of walking with leaders. And as you consider the year ahead, we would love to have you join us, intentionally investing in the conditions for your soul to flourish in 2026.