During the Christmas holidays, more than any other time of year, it’s easy to get caught up in the perfect life portrayed in Hallmark Christmas movies, media hype, and even social media posts of family and friends. But the truth is life doesn’t come with the guarantee of being challenge free. In fact, often times one challenge gives way to another, and the journey for health, self-care, and faith looks more like a winding road rather than a straight path.

I have recently been reminded of this truth in my own life. I’ve spent years working hard to recover from the health issue that started my journey in 2018, only to experience a relapse. As a result, I found myself on a new path of healing, and just when I thought I was nearing the end of this challenge a new one presented itself. Just a few weeks ago I broke my dominant arm, creating a whole new set of challenges to navigate. These setbacks have tested my patience, my resilience, and even my faith at times.

This has all been a reminder that my health journey in ongoing. Challenges are a part of life, but so is growth. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time or the “perfect” circumstance to start your journey. If you do, you will be waiting a long time because the perfect time or the perfect circumstance simply doesn’t exist. Know that God has a plan for your life and your life is meant to be lived. So, the perfect time to get started is now! Right where you are and with the tools and resources you have.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” —Jeremiah 29:11

It’s time to embrace the journey, find your starting point, and envision the life you’re working toward—even if the road feels uncertain.

Typically, this time of year is when people talk about making changes in the New Year. If you are currently dealing with a challenge that seems insurmountable, it can be really tempting to wait until after the holidays to even consider making changes. Chances are the challenge you are currently dealing with is making it difficult to enjoy the holidays, and it’s just easier to continue doing things you always have. But you know the truth, even if you don’t want to admit it. The New Year will not be much, if any, different than right now. So NOW is the “perfect” time to start, right where you are.

You can bet that dealing with my current challenges and the limitations that have come with them has made it necessary to re-evaluate the best ways to care for my body, continue healthy self-care, and to feed my spirit. I’ve had to make changes, even get creative at times, with movement and daily activities. Those who know me know that I am very independent, and I am learning how to lean on others when I need help. Most importantly, I’m learning how to extend myself grace and remind myself that small steps matter and add up over time.

It’s important to focus on where you are so you can determine the best place to start, but it’s equally important to look at the journey ahead. What can you envision for your future life? What would it look like to thrive physically, emotionally, and spiritually?

Envisioning the future doesn’t minimize the struggles you are dealing with right now. It allows you to hold on to hope. That hope is the fuel for your journey and the progress that lies ahead. God has plans for your life—plans for hope and a future. While you may not be able to see the big picture, you can rest assured that God is in control. You can trust that He is guiding you every step of the way.

Sometimes things are just hard and we feel stuck and even discouraged. Just know that your journey doesn’t end with one challenge, or even two. Life is full of ups and downs, successes and setbacks. Every step—no matter how small—is just one part of your story. Your setbacks do not define you. Look at them as opportunities to grow and learn. See them as opportunities to lean on God and strengthen your faith.

Unsure on how to do that? Consider these practical steps:

There is no one better to help you with your journey than God. After all, he is the one who has orchestrated every aspect of your life and every step that leads toward the plan that He has created for you. Spend time with Him and ask for wisdom and ask Him to plant your feet on the path that leads to His Perfect Plan. Reflect on the lessons you’ve learned along the way and just how far you have come.

It’s about improvement, no perfection. Recognize the victories, big and small. Every success is worth celebration.

Remember, we were not guaranteed a life without struggle. Setbacks are a natural part of the journey. When the path feels difficult, when things have not gone as planned, be kind to yourself and keep going. God has great things planned ahead for you.

I have always seen Jeremiah 29:11 as a promise. He tells us that His plans are good and they bring prosperity, a future, and a hope. This is His promise even in the midst of the challenges we face. Paul, in Philippians 4, reminds us that the key to being content in every situation is the understanding that we “can do all things through him who gives me strength.” You can always rest assured that God is with you in every challenge and giving you the strength, courage, and wisdom you need to keep moving forward.

Today I am inviting you to take that first step, wherever you are. Start small, dream big. Trust God to walk beside you and to be your guide. The road may not always be easy, but with faith, perseverance, patience and hope you can move forward—one step at a time.