“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

As year 2022 comes to a close, so will a treasured chapter of my life. After 39 years of federal service, I will be moving on to the next phase of life—retirement.  I made the decision to retire in February of this year but was a little apprehensive at first. The thought of it was kind of scary to say the least. By June, I was at peace with my decision; I was really going to do it.

During my career, I accomplished countless mission objectives, received numerous awards, attained exceptional skillsets and valued training, and great traveling opportunities, but what I will treasure and remember the most are the relationships I fostered during the span of my career—we will have a forever bond.

The million-dollar question I have been asked is, “What are you going to do now?” Trust me, I won’t be laying in bed or becoming a couch potato (although I will be keeping up with the latest movies). I will be dedicating my time to volunteering, writing, leading the Women’s Ministry at my church, and devoting more time to my life coaching and my financial services businesses. Now, I can do the things that I am passionate about and what I believe is my true calling.

I was doing a little research on how I should start this next chapter of my life and I stumbled upon an article titled “15 Steps to Start a New Chapter in Life,” where Rebecca offers the following steps:

1. Take some time for yourself and reflect on who you want to be.
2. Recognized that you are at a crossroads.
3. Find out what your priorities are and make time for them.
4. Give yourself some space from past relationships and routines.
5. Make a list of all the things you want to do in your new life.
6. Read new books.
7. Keep an open mind.
8. Stay motivated.
9. Be open to new friends.
10. Start new hobbies.
11. Get rid of old habits and routines.
12. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
13. Be patient with yourself and change.
14. Accept it when change doesn’t go how we planned.
15. Take a deep breath.

Are you starting a new chapter in your life? Maybe you are ending a chapter in a relationship, ending a bad habit, leaving an old job going to a new career, or maybe you want to downsize your home because you have become an empty nester. Whatever you are contemplating, review the above steps and I will add a #16—Pray.

Thank you all for being my loyal readers. I wish you a Merry Christmas and happy and safe new year. Look forward to seeing you in 2023.