The Fresh Start Effect

Usually, when we step into a new season of life—be it a birthday, new month, new year, or any event that ushers in a fresh start—many of us reflect on the things we want to improve.

This might mean letting go of a specific habit or overcoming procrastination to embark on a new career or job.

We might set goals like reading more books, saving for a new apartment, or starting a relationship.

We could also aim to learn a new skill or lose weight.

Whatever the resolution may be, we’ve all, at some point, pledged to initiate change, showing a desire to grow.

Psychologists call this the “Fresh Start Effect.”

In this case, a new month isn’t just a change in the calendar.

It’s an opportunity to separate from our past selves.

It allows us to mentally reset, leaving behind the failures, regrets, and mistakes of previous months.

For many Christians worldwide, the start of a new season isn’t just about physical health, career goals, or personal development.

Instead, it’s a chance to reflect, refocus, and reconnect with our spiritual journey.

To aim for personal growth and a closer relationship with God.

But just deciding to make changes on our own might not be enough.

Our faith in Christ Jesus speaks powerfully to these longings we have and offers a vision of what our best selves can be.

Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Colossians 3:12

The improvements we desire won’t happen significantly through vows or our choices alone.

Instead, they occur through the power of God and His Spirit working within us.

So, at the beginning of a new season, whether our plans are practical or spiritual, we usually aim for the same goal.

That goal is to grow and improve.

While we may desire that we do these things as planned, sometimes we need to give up our plans and follow what Christ wants for us.

That’s because a fresh start with Jesus is the best change!