Each year it's the same. We say good bye to the previous year by celebrating the fact that we survived another one, and we look apprehensively to the coming year with unknown troubles, unexpected joys and opportunities to become more than we currently are. Life moves faster and faster and we feel we're falling farther and farther behind. We do more each year and fell less alive.  Each year is the same, little progress and little to show for a year that we'll never get back. What if this year was different? What if this year was your Breakthrough year, the year you found the 'sweet spot' in your life and in your heart? What if this year was the year when your relationships flourished, your work was raised to a higher purpose, and your outlook was bright and energizing?  Then let's make it so. The first step in any journey is hardest and it's the decision to take the journey, we call it COMMITMENT.

1. the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc. 2. an engagement or obligation that restricts freedom of action.

synonyms: dedication, devotion, allegiance, loyalty, faithfulness, fidelity Maybe it sounds harsh, but nothing will happen, nothing worth having at least, if you're not committed to it. Decide what you want in life, what you want to be known for, what you want to be an expert in, what you want to share with the world, then commit to make it happen. Step Two - tell a friend about your decision. We all need accountability partners when we fall off the wagon, which we probably will. They will encourage us, sometimes kick us in the pants and sometimes remind us of the goal for which we've lost sight. This is also a great opportunity to support, motivate and follow the progress of others. HINT: Don't pick someone who isn't making progress in their own life, a family member, or someone who will tell you only how wonderful you are. Find someone who is where you want to be, someone who will tell you the painful truth and someone you respect and look up to. Step Three - Read a Book! I know that sounds strange but it is intended to do three things. (1) You are active, doing something, however small, to move toward your goals. The first step need not be correct, just needs to get started. (2) We are continual learners and the best way to learn is from those who have done what we hope to do. We grow in wisdom, confidence and understanding. (3) Obviously, don't read just any book, but a book on your subject of interest. This will help you develop a plan which is sometimes the information we lack. How do we do what we want? Reading the experiences of others will sometime shed new light and insights on the path before us. I encourage you to listen to this week's podcast and sermon notes on making 2014 a real BreakThrough Year for you! Sermon notes: Sermon Notes 12.29.13 Breakthrough Sermon Slides: Worship 12.29.13 Breakthrough PODCASTS: Breakout 12.29.13E   Breakout Year 12.29.13L