That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs

Spiritual Direction, Reflection, and Practices to Find Your Next Right Thing for the New Year with Emily P. Freeman- Episode 1021

Dec 8, 2025
Guest
Emily P. Freeman
Emily P. Freeman, a celebrated author and spiritual director, joins to discuss how to ease into the New Year. She shares techniques to relieve the pressure of January planning by encouraging reflection over several months. Emily introduces practices like 'caring without carrying' and releasing daily burdens. Plus, she offers invaluable reflective questions to help listeners discern their next right steps and emphasizes the importance of trusting God amidst life's chaos. Dive into small actions that create meaningful change and celebrate your journey!
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INSIGHT

Take Pressure Off January

  • Give yourself the whole month of January (or more) to plan rather than forcing decisions on January 1.
  • Reflection is a process, not a single deadline, so extend grace while you discern next steps.
ADVICE

Repair With Short Silence

  • Notice when you've pushed past your window of tolerance and practice small repairs like short silence.
  • Use brief timers for stillness to re-center quickly after stress or rigidity.
ADVICE

Practice Daily Releasing

  • Practice daily mindful releasing: offer expectations, grief, or worries to God in a simple posture.
  • Make releasing a short, consistent habit so you stop carrying burdens alone.
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