A Fresh Start: Embrace the Excitement of a New Quarter!
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I can’t believe it—we’re already two weeks from the end of the 1st quarter! One of the things I love most about quarterly planning is that it gives me a fresh start every three months. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by planning for an entire year, I get four opportunities to reset, refocus, and realign my goals. For planner lovers like me, this is an exciting time—time to start preparing for the 2nd quarter!
If you’re anything like me, you love having your new planner ready well in advance. I like to stay ahead of the game, but I’ve also learned that flexibility is key because things don’t always go as expected. That’s why I break my goals into quarters—it allows me to plan strategically while staying adaptable.
The Biblical Foundation of Planning
Luke 14:28, reminds us:
“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?”
I’m building something meaningful, and that requires intentional planning, preparation, and revision. That’s why quarterly planning is essential—it helps me stay on top of my goals without feeling overwhelmed.
Quarterly Planning: Your 2nd Quarter Reset
Now that we’re wrapping up the 1st quarter, it’s time to transition smoothly into the next. Here’s a step-by-step guide to closing out Q1 and preparing for Q2:
1. Schedule a Planning Day
Set aside a few hours to reflect, reset, and plan for the upcoming quarter.
2. Order Your Next Quarter Planner
Make sure you have your Q2 planner ready so you can start fresh without delays.
3. Reflect on the 1st Quarter
• Did you complete your goals and/or action steps for Q1?
• What worked well? What needs improvement?
4. Transfer Your Word of the Year
Keep your focus strong by carrying your Word of the Year into the new quarter.
5. Dream & Listen to God
• Take time to pray and seek guidance.
• Write down any new insights or goals on your Master Goal List.
6. Review & Revise Your Goals
• Adjust your goals if needed.
• Identify specific action steps for the 2nd quarter.
7. Set Your Top Five Goals
Complete the Top Five Goals pages in your planner and add actionable steps for each.
8. Transfer Important Dates
• Move your Plan Ahead dates to your Q2 monthly calendar.
• Add upcoming events and commitments.
9. Utilize Your Holiday Labels
Make sure your Q2 holiday labels are added to your monthly planning pages.
You’re Ready for the 2nd Quarter!
By breaking the year into quarters, you avoid the stress of long-term planning while maintaining clarity and momentum. With each reset, you get a new opportunity to align with God’s purpose, refine your strategy, and take action.
Are you ready to step into Q2 with confidence? Let’s plan with purpose and keep moving forward!
I'd love to hear if you achieved your 1st quarter goals and how the planner helped you stay on track! Leave your comments below!
Your Sister in Christ,
Lisa Michele
Creator, Virtuous Living Planner
www.virtuouslivingplanner.com