As we begin this new year, I find that taking stock of what I’m looking forward to keeps me focused, not only in my career, but in my spiritual life. Yes, I’m writing, but I’m also waiting to hear from my publisher about what lies ahead. Instead of coming up with what if scenarios, I plan on focusing on what I can do now, at this moment.

The same goes for my spiritual life. In this moment, what can I do to keep my feet grounded and my heart filled with joy and happiness? This is different for everyone. We all seek God in different ways, but the bottom line is, we seek him.

So, to start out this year, I’m focused on ways to grow closer to the Lord. Maybe you’re already taking these the steps I’ll mention, or you need a little encouragement about what to do next. These are a few ideas.

Bible study.

To be honest, I could be a career student. On any subject. I love learning. I still go to craft workshops to keep my writing sharp. While that benefits my career, I find that I need to also work on my relationship with God. What better way than by learning more about him?

I start every year with a Bible study.  This year it is Abide by Jen Wilkin, focusing on 1, 2 and 3 John. I order the workbook, then watch the lectures online and enjoy every minute. It keeps me challenged and in the Word.

There are other ways to study as well, like joining a group at your church or gathering with friends to discuss a topic of the Bible. No matter how we learn, the important thing is, we are learning. We are seeking. And hopefully, we find what we need.

Prayer time.

With our busy schedules, does prayer time become an afterthought? I know I’m constantly talking to God during my day, but what about the devoted slot of time to focus on my relationship with God? We can change what we’re doing if it’s not working by realigning our focus. Sometimes switching the way we go about our prayer time opens us up to new discoveries in how we pray. Taking the time to study our practices, then tweaking how we spend time in prayer, could be a game changer. All it takes is some focus to pinpoint what we can do to better to keep in communication with God.

Quiet time.

In our rush, rush, rush society, taking a moment of quiet time is essential. Downtime away from it all keeps us centered. This doesn’t mean getting away to a secluded location so nothing and no one disturbs us, although, that would be nice. We can find those special moments in small ways, like walking the dog and enjoying the path you take. Going into the backyard and breathing in the fresh air. Standing in the sun and enjoying the warmth it provides. There are so many ways to take a moment and reboot if we focus on making it happen.

This year will reveal how we can focus more. On our relationship with God. On life. On family and friends. My prayer is that we all seek that important time and that God is standing beside us as we grow closer to him.

Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and of course, love and romance, are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. For more information about her books, visit Tara at www.tararandel.com. Like her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TaraRandelBooks. Sign up for Tara’s Newsletter.