5 Hacks To Have Your Best Year

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Come Alive In 2025


I recently heard a story about basketball G.O.A.T. Kobe Bryant. Kobe allowed a renowned coach and trainer to witness one of his personal workouts and the coach was astonished by the simplicity of the drills Mr. Bryant went through. The same drills Kobe repeated throughout his workout were taught to almost every middle school basketball player around the country: dribbling, passing, and footwork. After the workout the invited coach asked Kobe Bryant why he, the greatest player in the game, did these simple and fundamental drills, Kobe simply replied, "Never get bored with the basics." In a world that always searches for a quick fix or a life-hack we can easily forget that the best way to grow is to return to the basics. When I neglect the foundational things I have a tendency to start to wobble. In order to truly Come Alive in 2025, here are 5 things to do every day:

1. Treat others how I want to be treated.

The Golden Rule starts with me. When I feel powerless this basic principle reminds me that I get to choose how I treat those around me. Choose to treat people with kindness and respect. Choose to give people the benefit of the doubt. Choose to speak life, love, and hope.

2. Acknowledge something greater than me.

Remember that God is ultimately in control. This year when I feel like the day is spiraling, I can press pause and acknowledge that there is someone higher than me, someone bigger than me, and someone who is working things together for my good. Trust in God every step of the way.

3. Take care of my body.

So many resolutions to lose weight, but leaning in to simply taking care of my body. Choose that piece of fruit instead of those cookies. Choose to go for a walk instead of plopping down on the couch. Take care of your body a little better than you did yesterday and you'll look and feel better!

4. Ask more questions.

We learn and grow when we stop trying to prove we have all the answers. When I am intentional about asking questions to others to learn their perspective and absorb some of their life experience, I feel a spark. It's not about sharing what I know, it's about learning and growing. Ask more questions.

5. Give a little of my abundance.

Giving to others is not a natural human trait. We are naturally selfish creatures and we save and hoard. I have always wanted to make sure I have enough for me, but the world responds to those who choose to give. We don't necessarily need to give our last, but when we choose to give from our abundance we begin to receive unexpected blessings. If you have more than what you really need (even socks), find someone to bless with your excess. I'd love to hear how you're choosing to make this year your best one yet. My prayer is that we will go back to the basics and truly come alive in 2025 and declare: I Choose Hope!

Like Trent's blog? Subscribe to his monthly newsletter at ichoosehope.substack.com.

Contact Trent directly by creating a Securus e-messaging account at SecurusTech.net or on the Securus App. You'll need his full name, State, and facility (Trenton Blythe, Texas, Texas Department of Criminal Justice). He'd love to hear from you!

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