Elder Jeffrey R. Holland on the start of a new year

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (born December 3, 1940) served as Church Commissioner of Education from 1976-1980, as the president of BYU from 1980-1989, as a Seventy from 1989-1994, and as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1994.

"The start of a new year is the traditional time to take stock of our lives and see where we are going, measured against the backdrop of where we have been. I don't want to talk about New Year's resolutions, but I do want to talk about the past and the future, with an eye toward any time of transition and change in our lives—and those moments come virtually every day....

"You can remember just enough to avoid repeating the mistake, but then put the rest of it all on the dung heap Paul spoke of to the Philippians (3:7-12). Dismiss the destructive, and keep dismissing it until the beauty of the Atonement of Christ has revealed to you your bright future and the bright future of your family, your friends, and your neighbors. God doesn't care nearly as much about where you have been as He does about where you are and, with His help, where you are willing to go....

"This is an important matter to consider at the start of a new year—and every day ought to be the start of a new year and a new life. Such is the wonder of faith, repentance, and the miracle of the gospel of Jesus Christ....

"Faith is for the future. Faith builds on the past but never longs to stay there. Faith trusts that God has great things in store for each of us and that Christ truly is the 'high priest of good things to come' (Hebrews 9:11).

"Keep your eyes on your dreams, however distant and far away. Live to see the miracles of repentance and forgiveness, of trust and divine love that will transform your life today, tomorrow, and forever. That is a New Year's resolution I ask you to keep."

- Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Best is Yet to Be," BYU devotional given January 13, 2009; see Ensign, January 2010, pp. 22-27
Click here to read the full talk

Today is January 1, and a new year begins. Elder Holland notes that "every day ought to be the start of a new year," but we tend to emphasize the accustomed calendar boundaries. As I "take stock" of my life this morning, I appreciate Elder Holland's encouragement to learn from the past but not dwell on it, allowing the "beauty of the Atonement of Christ" to guide me to the future.

This profound excerpt ought to be engraven on every heart: "God doesn't care nearly as much about where you have been as He does about where you are and, with His help, where you are willing to go." We can easily dwell too much on where we have been, the mistakes, the shortcomings, the challenges and frustrations. 

That's the New Year's resolution to focus on, keeping our eyes on our dreams and ensuring we are claiming "His help" as offered for every step.  And then, as promised, we will each witness "the miracles of repentance and forgiveness, of trust and divine love that will transform your life."

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
January 1, 2015

Elder M. Russell Ballard on covenants, goals, and progress

President M. Russell Ballard (born October 8, 1928) was called as a Seventy in 1976, and has served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1985. He became acting president of the Twelve in January 2018.

"A periodic review of the covenants we have made with the Lord will help us with our priorities and with balance in our lives. This review will help us see where we need to repent and change our lives to ensure that we are worthy of the promises that accompany our covenants and sacred ordinances. Working out our own salvation requires good planning and a deliberate, valiant effort....

"Set short-term goals that you can reach. Set goals that are well balanced—not too many nor too few, and not too high nor too low. Write down your attainable goals and work on them according to their importance. Pray for divine guidance in your goal setting....

"Not long ago, one of my children said, 'Dad, sometimes I wonder if I will ever make it.' The answer I gave to her is the same as I would give to you if you have had similar feelings. Just do the very best you can each day. Do the basic things and, before you realize it, your life will be full of spiritual understanding that will confirm to you that your Heavenly Father loves you. When a person knows this, then life will be full of purpose and meaning, making balance easier to maintain."

- M. Russell Ballard, "Keeping Life's Demands in Balance," Ensign, May 1987, pp. 13-15
Click here to read the full talk

What a worthwhile consideration: to make a "periodic review" of our covenants and priorities. As we think of "new year resolutions," it would be especially appropriate to consider the things of greatest import in our lives and evaluate our standing and progress. A resolution can be a form of repentance, if done well and properly. In particular, as we "work out our own salvation" we would be wise to engage in such a review frequently—much more than once a year!

Elder Ballard gives encouragement on the process of self-review and progress:

The other valuable counsel Elder Ballard offers in this excerpt is to not be discouraged by the seeming magnitude of the task. One day at a time, doing our best with the tasks at hand—that's all we can do. But the promise is wonderful: as we do those basic things, life soon becomes "full of spiritual understanding" and we feel the depth of our Heavenly Father's love. That gives us "purpose and meaning" and helps us maintain balance and perspective.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)
December 31, 2015

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf on resolving to avoid regret

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (born November 6, 1940) served as a Seventy from 1994-2004, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve. He served as second counselor in the First Presidency from 2008 until 2018.

"One day we will take that unavoidable step and cross from this mortal sphere into the next estate. One day we will look back at our lives and wonder if we could have been better, made better decisions, or used our time more wisely.

"To avoid some of the deepest regrets of life, it would be wise to make some resolutions today. Therefore, let us:

"- Resolve to spend more time with those we love.

"- Resolve to strive more earnestly to become the person God wants us to be.

"- Resolve to find happiness, regardless of our circumstances.

"It is my testimony that many of the deepest regrets of tomorrow can be prevented by following the Savior today....

"The path toward fulfilling our divine destiny as sons and daughters of God is an eternal one. My dear brothers and sisters, dear friends, we must begin to walk that eternal path today; we cannot take for granted one single day. I pray that we will not wait until we are ready to die before we truly learn to live."

- Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Of Regrets and Resolutions," General Conference October 2012
Click here to read the full article.

What marvelous counsel!  Of course, we don't have to wait until "New Year's Day." Any day is a good day to resolve to spend time with those we love, to follow God, and to be happy.  But there's a sense of urgency in not postponing those decisions.

Why not start today, to both resolve and do—to make real, specific effort to improve! Every day we postpone increases the chance of one day feeling the deep regret of having waited. And also, to never regret a single day that is granted to us.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)

President Howard W. Hunter on resolving to grow and repent

President Howard W. Hunter (1907-1995) was called to the Quorum of Twelve in 1959.  He served as Church President from June 5, 1994 to his death on March 3, 1995.

"This is a gospel of repentance, and we need to be repenting and resolving. Indeed, the process of repenting, making commitments, and setting goals should be a continuous one, so there is nothing wrong with using this traditional time of the year to evaluate the past and plan the future. It is much like our personal prayers in which, while communicating with our Father in Heaven, we ponder our thoughts, words, and deeds of the day and seek help in our personal progress for the morrow. The practice of reviewing the past and setting new directions for the future is a very healthy one, a scripturally encouraging one, in which we can beneficially alter our lives. I commend the practice to you, especially if it is thoughtfully pursued and the resolutions made are made in righteousness, bringing behaviors and attitudes that truly bless your lives and the lives of others. Shakespeare once wrote that one should live so that 'Eyes, / That borrow their behaviours from the great, / Grow great by your example and put on / The dauntless spirit of resolution' (King John, act 5, scene 1, lines 48–53).

"Sometimes our resolutions are a part of the process of repentance from past sins—actual transgressions for which we need forgiveness. Sometimes our goals focus on less serious matters, such as errors of judgment or flaws in our personality that may not be sins as such but that we nevertheless desire to change. Yes, life offers a multitude of lessons and plenty of things to improve. It is wonderful to believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ, which encourages such lofty views and gives us every avenue to achieve them."

- Howard W. Hunter, "The Dauntless Spirit of Resolution," BYU Fireside, 5 January 1992
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

"We need to be repenting and resolving" as part of a continuous process of growth and improvement! This is wise prophetic counsel, and President Hunter encourages us to think of that at the beginning of the new year. Even our daily prayers can be a step in that process, as we consider each day's performance and seek inspiration on how to do better tomorrow. There is potential for much good in this process:

Since we do believe in "a gospel of repentance," President Hunter encourages us to allow resolutions to direct us in that process when needed. And there are many other areas of personal growth that we can consider as we seek to change. There are always "plenty of things to improve" as we examine our life carefully and prayerfully.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)

President Russell M. Nelson on great goals and greater goals

President Russell M. Nelson (born Sept 9, 1924) was an internationally-renowned heart surgeon when he was called to serve as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1984. He became president of that quorum on July 15, 2015. Following the death of President Monson, he was set apart as president of the Church on January 14, 2018.

"We launch into the future from a firm foundation. Our span of life has increased significantly. Transportation, communication, and education have improved. We have learned how to set high goals and work toward their achievement. First we dream, then persevere with laborious duty, bolstered by unwavering faith in our cause and ability to achieve.

"One by one, we do our tasks. We earn educational degrees and take certifying and qualifying examination. We jump over hurdles of expectation as imposed by others. But eventually, we recognize the daring difference in striving to do what we do—compared to striving to become whom we ought to be.

"Thus our goals are great and greater. Great goals I relate to temporal attainments. Greater goals I relate to attributes of personal character. Goals to do can be incremental; goals to be can be monumental. Such attributes of character are worthy of our attention as we strive to be whom we ought to be."

- Russell M. Nelson, “Goals Great and Greater,” Rebild Festival, Denmark, July 4, 2000; see Teachings of Russell M. Nelson  pp. 44-45

There are a lot of interesting insights in this excerpt from President Nelson. He recognizes the blessings we have in our time of advanced technology and new opportunities. In this environment, building on this framework, "First we dream..." — we can imagine and project into the future the possibilities we have, individually and collectively. But the realization of those dreams requires that we "persevere with laborious duty, bolstered by unwavering faith." What a great description of progress!

But then as we grow and progress, we begin to recognize that there are two kinds of development and accomplishment: what we do and what we are.

While the temporal achievements are valuable and important, what we become—the character we develop—is far more significant. We should remember that, and focus the greatest efforts on the things of greatest value and importance!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)

Elder John A. Widtsoe on personal resolutions for life

Elder John A. Widtsoe (1872-1952) was born in Norway. He was raised by his widowed mother who immigrated to Utah when John was 11. He was educated at Harvard and in Europe, and had formative roles in programs in several Utah universities including BYU. He served as an apostle from 1921 to his death in 1952.

On January 2, 1891, as a 19-year-old emigrant from Norway, a young John Widtsoe pondered his life to that point and then penned these words that would set the standard for the rest of his life:

"As I have come to fully realize; that, I am as weak as all other mortals—perhaps weaker than many; and realizing that happiness in life is only obtained by having a pure heart, a clear conscience; and fearing the Lord and keeping his commandments; also as I realize that happiness in old age consists of reviewing a life devoid from great sins; the gratification of noble desires manfully carried out; and finding that my life up to this time has not been as I should like it to have been: I lay down the following regulations by which I shall try to conduct my life hereafter; to which end may the Lord Almighty, my Creator, help me.

"Resolved:
"1st. That religion, the science of sciences, be made my chief concernment throughout life.
"2nd. That I will daily pray to God in secret.
"3rd. That I will daily reflect upon God and his attributes and try to become like him.
"4th. That I will receive Light, Wisdom or Knowledge, wherever or however it may be offered.
"5th. That I never be ashamed to acknowledge my principles, beliefs and religion when I once become fully convinced of their correctness.
"6th. That I never lose one moment of time but improve it.
"7th. That I maintain strict temperance in eating and drinking.
"8th. That I never do anything that I would not do were it the last hour of my life.
"9th. That I daily read the word of God, that I may learn his will and that I may be comforted, strengthened and encouraged by so doing.
"10th. That in any narrations I speak nothing but the pure and simple verity.
"11th. That I always do that which I think is my duty and for the best good for my fellow beings.
"12th. That I live with all my might while I do live, that I may not die a living death.
"13th. That I never by word or manner try to force my opinions on others but that I simply state them and offer my arguments against others!
"14th. That I seek to overcome the habit of being quick tempered, loud speaking, impatient motions and whatever might offend my fellowmen and hurt me.
"15th. That I never for a moment forget my duty towards my mother, she who has made me who I am and who will make what I will become, she who has spent the better portion of her life in my behalf and to whom I owe all the honor, respect, and affection that I can give; also that I always remember my duties toward my brother and all my friends and relations.
"16th. That I complete every task which I begin; also that I carefully consider my purpose and its results before taking upon me any duty.
"17th. That I always remember that the men and women I meet are my brothers and sisters and that I look to the beam in my own eye before attempting to remove the mote in my fellow’s eye."

- John A. Widtsoe, recorded January 2, 1891; quoted in G. Homer Durham, "Faith, The Greater Knowledge," New Era, August 1978, pp. 4-6

It is remarkable to consider that these resolutions came from a relatively immature 19-year-old young man. But even more remarkable is to consider how his commitment to these principles led to a life of significant achievement in many ways—intellectually and spiritually. He begins by recognizing the source of true happiness in life:

Many of the items in this list of resolutions contain "normal" or expected items, such as establishing habits of regular prayer and meditation, studying God's word, faithfulness in obedience, and service to others. Beyond that, several of the less-common phrases used by Elder Widtsoe impressed me:

• "8th. That I never do anything that I would not do were it the last hour of my life." This is an interesting way to establish priority and value, and to maintain focus on things that matter most.
• "12th. That I live with all my might while I do live, that I may not die a living death." Live with enthusiasm and eagerness for your whole life; don't ever "die a living death" by fading slowly away.
• "15th. That I never for a moment forget my duty towards my mother." This was the longest item of the list, but showed the loving dedication this young man felt for his widowed mother who had sacrificed much for him. He fulfilled this commitment.

It's fascinating to consider this list. It's even more fascinating to try to write one for ourselves, regardless of our position in life (young and eager with a whole life ahead, or older and more experienced).

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

President Thomas S. Monson on changes, goals, and success

President Thomas S. Monson (born August 21, 1927) was sustained to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1963. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency with Presidents Benson, Hunter, and Hinckley until becoming Church president in 2008.

"We live in a changing world. Technology has altered nearly every aspect of our lives. We must cope with these advances—even these cataclysmic changes—in a world of which our forebears never dreamed.

"Remember the promise of the Lord: 'If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.' (D&C 38:30.) Fear is a deadly enemy of progress.

"It is necessary to prepare and to plan so that we don't fritter away our lives. Without a goal, there can be no real success. One of the best definitions of success I have ever heard goes something like this: Success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal. Someone has said the trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never crossing the goal line."

- Thomas S. Monson, "In Search of Treasure," General Conference, April 2003
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Any of us who are in "middle age" or beyond have witnessed first-hand the "cataclysmic changes" in technology that President Monson refers to, altering "nearly every aspect of our lives." But President Monson reminds us that we have nothing to fear from change, or from anything else, as long as we are prepared. We may not know what we are preparing for; but the preparation involves continuing progress and growth

I like the imagery of "fritter away our lives" with its implication of a gradual wasting over time. One definition given is "To occupy oneself idly or without clear purpose, to tinker with an unimportant part of a project, to dally, sometimes as a form of procrastination." President Monson suggests that we can "fritter away our lives" by being unclear in our purpose or destination; as we engage in meaningless tasks or activities that distract from worthy goals, we are gradually missing out on the progress we might be making. In the context of the technological advances mentioned in the earlier paragraph, it's easy to see how our technology can contribute to that frittering.

On the other hand, the beautiful definition of success gives us much to ponder. "Success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal." Just as frittering away happens gradually and piecemeal, so does the achievement of success. As we hold our goals clearly in our mind and work progressively to attain them, the end result is assured! But we must be progressing. That's the benefit of establishing our goals in ways that are clear and well-defined. They can keep us moving forward in positive ways.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

President Thomas S. Monson on four goals for a new year

President Thomas S. Monson (b. August 21, 1927) was sustained to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1963. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency with Presidents Benson, Hunter, and Hinckley until becoming Church president in 2008.

"I made a few resolutions at the commencement of this new year. I’d like to share them with you, hoping that you, too, will join in making the same choices, the same resolutions.

"First in 1973, I will listen. Second, I will learn. Third, I will labor. And fourth, I will love. Four words beginning with the letter l, but four words which can well determine our destiny....

"Four pledges for the new year: I will listen, I will learn, I will labor, I will love. As we fulfill these pledges, we can have the guidance of our Heavenly Father and in our own lives experience true joy. Now, I don’t simply mean that we should make a wish, or that we should dream a dream, but rather determine to do that which we pledge to accomplish. We can, if we will. It was Henry Ford, the industrialist, who declared, 'Whether you think you can, or whether you think you can’t, you’re right.' Now, shall we go forward with such resolutions? Can we change our practices if such need changing? I declare that we can....

"I testify today that when the Savior spoke those words recorded in Revelation he was giving you and me counsel to help us be true to our pledge this new year. Remember his words? 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him' (Rev. 3:20). My prayer today is that we will have listening ears, that we might in turn hear his knock, appreciate the invitation of our Lord, and have the wisdom to open wide the doorway to our heart and the portals to our mind, that Jesus Christ might come in unto us. Shall we make room for him in our hearts? Shall we provide time for him in our lives? Once again the choice is yours, and the choice is mine, remembering that our choices, our decisions, determine our destiny."

- Thomas S. Monson, "A Time to Choose," BYU Devotional, January 16, 1973
Click here to read the full message

It's been almost 45 years since President Monson offered this counsel to BYU students at the start of a new year and a new semester in school. The vigor and enthusiasm of his message and challenges has not changed much over the years! He shared his personal goals with the students, and encouraged them to consider similar areas of growth in their own lives:

In the full text of the talk, President Monson goes into more detail for each of these four areas, giving more specifics about how improvement could occur and how it could be a blessing. It's very worth reviewing!

President Monson concludes with the reminder that divine assistance is available to us as we strive to change and grow. The Savior still stands at the door knocking, hoping that we will allow Him to enter our hearts and minds:

Perhaps the most important "resolution" of all would be to make sure we are opening that door more often and more fully!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin on examining life and setting goals

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917-2008) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1986, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1986 until his passing in 2008 at age 91.

"I have known many great men and women. Although they have different backgrounds, talents, and perspectives, they all have this in common: they work diligently and persistently towards achieving their goals. It’s easy to get distracted and lose focus on the things that are most important in life. I’ve tried to remember the lessons I learned... and prioritize values that are important to me so that I can keep my eye focused on things that really matter.

"I urge you to examine your life. Determine where you are and what you need to do to be the kind of person you want to be. Create inspiring, noble, and righteous goals that fire your imagination and create excitement in your heart. And then keep your eye on them. Work consistently towards achieving them.

"'If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams,' wrote Henry David Thoreau, 'and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.' (Walden 323)"

- Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Life’s Lessons Learned," General Conference, April 2007
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

What defines greatness? How is it achieved? Elder Wirthlin gives some suggestions in this interesting talk, in which he drew from his own life experiences to show the importance of such principles as setting goals, always doing what is right no matter the consequences, and then reaching out in love to those around us.

I think one of the keys to this message is in the statement, "It's easy to get distracted and lose focus on the things that are most important in life." In our busy, complicated lives, we often have things press upon us that seem urgent. But those are often not the things that matter most in the long run! Learning to balance the demands of the moment, with the long-range priorities and principles, is a critical skill. Elder Wirthlin suggests that having "righteous goals" on which we can fix our attention makes all the difference:

I've always loved the statement from Thoreau that Elder Wirthlin quotes. Having dreams, well-defined dreams, towards which we can be advancing consistently, will enable us to ensure that our overall life direction is as it should be. We need to have the destination firmly in mind in order to travel the right path! This principle applies not just to the grand, eternal goals but also to shorter intermediate stages along the way.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

President Ezra Taft Benson on overcoming discouragement through personal progress

President Ezra Taft Benson (1899-1994) was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1943, and served as the 13th President of the Church from 1985 until his death in 1994 at age 94.

"Every accountable child of God needs to set goals, short- and long-range goals. A man who is pressing forward to accomplish worthy goals can soon put despondency under his feet, and once a goal is accomplished, others can be set up. Some will be continuing goals. Each week when we partake of the sacrament we commit ourselves to the goals of taking upon ourselves the name of Christ, of always remembering him and keeping his commandments. Of Jesus' preparation for his mission, the scripture states that he 'increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.' (Luke 2:52.) This encompasses four main areas for goals: spiritual, mental, physical, and social. 'Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be?' asked the Master, and he answered, 'Verily I say unto you, even as I am.' (3 Ne. 27:27.) Now there is a lifetime goal—to walk in his steps, to perfect ourselves in every virtue as he has done, to seek his face, and to work to make our calling and election sure....

"Let your minds be filled with the goal of being like the Lord, and you will crowd out depressing thoughts as you anxiously seek to know him and do his will. 'Let this mind be in you,' said Paul. (Philip. 2:5.) 'Look unto me in every thought,' said Jesus. (D&C 6:36.) And what will follow if we do? 'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.' (Isa. 26:3.)"

- Ezra Taft Benson, "Do Not Despair," Ensign, November 1974, p. 65
Click here to read or listen to the full article

President Benson suggests that we can overcome discouragement and despondency by "pressing forward to accomplish worthy goals."

He then encourages us more specifically to set goals in areas that are "spiritual, mental, physical, and social" as we strive to be more like the Savior. As we strive to "walk in his steps" and "perfect ourselves in every virtue as he has done" we will find that joy and "perfect peace" will replace discouragement.

Elder Neal A. Maxwell on stretching ourselves in personal progress

Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926-2004) served as a Seventy from 1976-1981, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve until his death from cancer in 2004.

"Our goals should stretch us bit by bit. So often when we think we have encountered a ceiling, it is really a psychological or experimental barrier that we have built ourselves. We built it and we can remove it.

"Just as correct principles, when applied, carry their own witness that they are true, so do correct personal improvement programs. But we must not expect personal improvement without pain or some 'remodeling.' We can't expect to have the thrills of revealed religion without the theology. We cannot expect to have the soul stretching without Christian service."

- Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Deposition of a Disciple, pp. 33-34

We often neglect the fundamental premise of this excerpt: ongoing self-improvement. We tend to coast along in life, surviving the needs or demands as best we can, but not often focusing on improving our abilities, knowledge, habits, or personalities. Elder Maxwell encourages that we look for areas of gradual but consistent improvement ("bit by bit"), recognizing that our perceived limits in various areas are not really barriers at all. I like that challenge! But it should be remembered that change and improvement are not effortless, and sometimes are not painless:

It's also an interesting thought that "correct personal improvement programs" will "carry their own witness that they are true." We will sense, often quickly, if a course we are taking is leading in positive directions. But it requires that we embark on the course first in order to know!

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin on setting explicit life goals

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917-2008) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1986, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1986 until his passing in 2008 at age 91.

"In some respects, progressing through life is like running a marathon. You young people are nearer the beginning of your earthly sojourn. You chose to come to this earth and to be tested and proved. The end may seem too far away to concern you now. But life, like a marathon, requires a good start and a strong, consistent effort all of the way to the finish.

"Marathon runners set explicit goals. You should look ahead now and decide what you want to do with your lives. Fix clearly in your mind what you want to be one year from now, five years, ten years, and beyond. Receive your patriarchal blessing and strive to live worthy of its promises. A patriarchal blessing is one of the most important guides in life that members of the Church enjoy. Write your goals and review them regularly. Keep them before you constantly, record your progress, and revise them as circumstances dictate. Your ultimate goal should be eternal life—the kind of life God lives, the greatest of all the gifts of God."

- Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Running Your Marathon," Ensign, Nov. 1989, p. 73
Click here to read the full article

Elder Wirthlin was quite athletic in his youth, and these analogies are natural for him. He proposes the mortal experience is like a marathon race that "requires a good start and a strong, consistent effort all of the way to the finish." Elder Wirthlin lived his life that way; he truly did endure and finish strong. In order to achieve the best success in our course of life, Elder Wirthlin encourages us to start by having a clear vision of what we want to accomplish:

Even though Elder Wirthlin was addressing his remarks to youth, who have more of life ahead, the principles apply to readers of any age. The idea of 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, and longer-term goals is a good one. Not many of us actually take the time to ponder what we want to accomplish in those kinds of intervals. But Elder Wirthlin believed there was power in recording and reviewing specific goals. That will aid us in the quest for the "ultimate goal."

N. Eldon Tanner on daily progress and preparation

President Nathan Eldon Tanner (1898-1982) was ordained an apostle in 1962.  A year later he was called as a counselor in the First Presidency, and continued in that role during the administration of four Church presidents until his death in 1982 at age 84.

"'Today is the first day of the rest of my life. Let me begin now to prepare for eternal life, that I may know a fullness of joy and happiness now and forever.' After all, this is really what each of us wants, and it is most important that we take time to find out how to get it and begin now to work at it day by day.

"To accomplish this we must study and learn and increase our knowledge and understanding of the gospel. Then by application of our learning day by day and every day we will have an increase of faith and testimony that is so necessary for our own salvation, as well as for our influence on the lives of those we love, those with whom we want to share our happiness and blessings....

"How do we keep ourselves headed in the right path for the achievement of our goals and eventual eternal life? Only by disciplining ourselves and by repenting each day of those old habits or weaknesses that will keep us from reaching our God-given potential and destiny. We know that we have to work constantly to attain anything worthwhile in life.

"Before entering a tournament a golfer will practice a single shot by the hour. Musicians, artists, public speakers—all must work and practice to become proficient. How much more important it is for us to make preparation to be about the work of our Heavenly Father who has placed us here for a wise and glorious purpose.

"As we reflect on the value of resolving to do better, let us determine to discipline ourselves to carefully select the resolutions we make, to consider the purpose for making them, and finally, to make commitments for keeping them and not letting any obstacle stop us. Let us remind ourselves at the beginning of each day that we can keep a resolution just for that day. As we do this it gets easier and easier until it becomes a habit."

- N. Eldon Tanner, "Just for Today," New Era, January 1975, pp. 4-5
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Every day begins a new year, and provides a new beginning: "today is the first day of the rest of my life." President Tanner encourages us to consider regularly and frequently how we are doing to prepare for the future and ensure we are making good progress. This is particularly crucial in spiritual maters, as we evaluate our progress towards our ultimate goals. It takes dedicated study and learning to help us grow in understanding and faith; and then continuing discipline and continuing repentance to put what we learn into practice.

I thought President Tanner's comparison was interesting, of the discipline required for athletes, musicians, and speakers to develop and maintain their skills. They can devote many hundreds of hours to prepare for a performance. How much more we should be willing to focus our efforts and show the dedication to improve behavior or understanding in spiritual matters!

Harold B. Lee on not postponing efforts to improve

President Harold B. Lee (1899-1973) was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1941. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency from 1970-1972, then as Church president from July 1972 until his passing less than 18 months later in December 1973.

"Today is the day for us to begin to search our souls. Have you discovered which is the most important of all the commandments to you today? ... Are you going to begin working on it today? Or are you going to wait until it is too late?

"The little boy says, 'Well, when I get to be a big boy, then I’m going to do so and so.' And what is that? When he gets to be a big boy, ... then he says, 'When I get married, then I’ll do so and so.' And then after he gets married, it all changes, and 'Well, when I retire.' And then after he is retired, a cold wind sweeps down over him and suddenly he realizes too late that he has lost everything. And it is too late. And yet all his life he has had all the time that there was. He just hasn’t taken advantage of it.

"Now, today, this is the day for us to begin to do something about it, before it is too late."

- Harold B. Lee, Address given to Ricks College student body and leaders, 3 March 1962, Historical Department Archives, 20–21; see Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee pp. 227-229

In a different setting, President Lee talked about the "most important of all the commandments of God" for each of us as being the one that we might be personally struggling with most today (see this quote). He begins with a similar idea in this excerpt, encouraging us to discover what the most important commandment is and then begin working on it.

The rest of the quote seems to expand the idea of not delaying, applying it not just to repentance and obedience, but other worthwhile aspects of our lives that might be postponed for one reason or another. What a great reminder. There are so many good things to do, so much that competes for our time and attention; but we should never put off dreams or good intentions until it becomes too late. We are meant to live our lives, with joy!

L. Tom Perry on the difference between doing and being

Elder L. Tom Perry (1922-2015) was called as an Assistant to the Twelve in 1972, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1974. At the time of his passing at age 92, he was the oldest living general authority and the third in seniority among the leading quorum.

"I remember many years ago, when we lived in New York, coming back to Utah on vacation and stopping to visit a ninety-one-year-old aunt of my wife's. She lived alone in a small but comfortable home. At her age, she was completely self-reliant. Her home was clean and orderly; her house was filled with beautiful plants, so well cared for. Around one chair we found the well-used scriptures and other church publications. In our conversations with her we were amazed at her knowledge of current events. At the end of our visit she taught us a great lesson. She said, as we prepared to leave, 'You know, I have found in life that it is not enough just to do. You also have to be.' I encourage you tonight to be. Be physically strong, living the Lord's code of health, making even more dramatic the difference between the children of the Lord and the children of the world. Be socially and emotionally acceptable to those you are privileged to associate with, and be comfortable in their presence. Show some life, some spirit, and some enthusiasm as you go about your activities each day.

"Grow mentally each day. Prepare yourself for the eternities to come. Be close to the Lord. Understand the potential within you as one of his spirit children. I encourage you to start this new year with a plan, with new goals, with new objectives, to lift yourself physically, socially-emotionally, mentally, and spiritually to newer heights on your eternal course toward eternal life.

"Again we would encourage you to recognize: 'I Need Thee Every Hour,' in every aspect of a life based on his plan, his law, and his way."

- L. Tom Perry, "I Need Thee Every Hour," BYU Fireside, January 2, 1977
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Elder Perry's description of an aged relative living a simple, but happy, life brought back memories of my own two grandmothers, each of whom lived similarly in their later years. They each might have given the same advice about truly being strong, committed, active, and obedient, and not just doing the things superficially that might hint at those traits.

Elder Perry himself was well-known for perhaps having followed the advice to "show some life, some spirit, and some enthusiasm" in daily activities.

I especially appreciate the injunction to "grow mentally each day" as we prepare for the future.

His remarks were given at the start of a new year, and he encouraged his listeners to take advantage of that time to recommit with specific goals of growth and progress.  Good advice.  And in particular, the reminder that each of us should never forget: "I Need Thee Every Hour."

Spencer W. Kimball on the path to a more abundant life

President Spencer W. Kimball (1895-1985) was ordained an apostle in 1943 and served as President of the Church from 1973 to 1985.

"You will find that the more you reflect upon what must be done to have a richer and more abundant life, the more you will be led back to central considerations that are contained in the messages of the Master. If we follow in his footsteps, we can live by faith rather than by fear. If we can share his perspective about people, we can love them, serve them, and reach out to them—rather than feeling anxious and threatened by others.

"During youth and young maturity time flies with great speed. To travel listlessly is just futile. One should have a destination and a goal to reach. One should determine what he wants out of life and then bend every effort toward reaching that goal. He must realize that life is more than meat and drink and fun and fortune. However, it is often easy for young people to follow the line of least resistance and to be found to be 'even as chaff is driven before the wind, or as a vessel is tossed about upon the waves, without sail or anchor, or without anything wherewith to steer her.' (Morm. 5:18.)"

- Spencer W. Kimball, "The Abundant Life," address given at Weber State College, Ogden, UT on Nov 4, 1977; see Ensign, July 1978 pp. 2-7
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I love President Kimball's teachings. He was the prophet of my youth, and his kind and gentle manner always spoke to my soul as much as his words. There was a sense that he truly knew about "the abundant life," a topic he addressed on several occasions. Here, he teaches that abundance comes only through following the message and example of the Savior, in learning to love, serve, and reach out to others:

What a beautiful promise! If I would have a life that is richer and more full, I must make a greater effort to love and serve my fellowman. And President Kimball suggests that we must set goals if we are to achieve progress in this, and any other, area. If we don't, we "follow the line of least resistance" to a life that is far from ideal, and is in fact directed by the adversary (see Mormon 5:17-18).

M. Russell Ballard on covenants, goals, and progress

Elder M. Russell Ballard (1928- ) was called as a Seventy in 1976, and has served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1985.

"A periodic review of the covenants we have made with the Lord will help us with our priorities and with balance in our lives. This review will help us see where we need to repent and change our lives to ensure that we are worthy of the promises that accompany our covenants and sacred ordinances. Working out our own salvation requires good planning and a deliberate, valiant effort....

"Set short-term goals that you can reach. Set goals that are well balanced—not too many nor too few, and not too high nor too low. Write down your attainable goals and work on them according to their importance. Pray for divine guidance in your goal setting....

"Not long ago, one of my children said, 'Dad, sometimes I wonder if I will ever make it.' The answer I gave to her is the same as I would give to you if you have had similar feelings. Just do the very best you can each day. Do the basic things and, before you realize it, your life will be full of spiritual understanding that will confirm to you that your Heavenly Father loves you. When a person knows this, then life will be full of purpose and meaning, making balance easier to maintain."

- M. Russell Ballard, "Keeping Life's Demands in Balance," Ensign, May 1987, pp. 13-15
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What a worthwhile consideration: to make a "periodic review" of our covenants and priorities. As we think of "new year resolutions," it would be especially appropriate to consider the things of greatest import in our lives and evaluate our standing and progress. A resolution can be a form of repentance, if done well and properly. In particular, as we "work out our own salvation" we would be wise to engage in such a review frequently—much more than once a year!

Elder Ballard gives encouragement on the process of self-review and progress:

The other valuable counsel Elder Ballard offers in this excerpt is to not be discouraged by the seeming magnitude of the task. One day at a time, doing our best with the tasks at hand—that's all we can do. But the promise is wonderful: as we do those basic things, life soon becomes "full of spiritual understanding" and we feel the depth of our Heavenly Father's love. That gives us "purpose and meaning" and helps us maintain balance and perspective.