A new planner is one of my favorite things! Yes, I need it to keep me organized but I love opening a new planner with the potential for a new year!

A new year of fun – where do we plan family gatherings, vacations, or time with friends? What celebrations need to be a priority?

A new year of work – who can I impact through my work? Where do I plan programs with 4-H families, schools, or libraries for learning opportunities?

A new year of volunteering – where can I connect with my church family, with my community, or with other organizations to improve life around me?

A new year of partnerships – how can I collaborate with colleagues and community partners to better our connections and combined impact?

A new year of personal and professional development – where and how can I improve myself?

All of these questions relate to opening a new planner! In fairness, I started my new planner for 2023 back in October as I began adding priority dates for the new year.

We’ll have a couple of graduations to celebrate in our immediate family, as well as weddings and new babies for friends. 

I have already filled in many dates for work events and activities for several months and I’m excited about the potential this brings for interacting with 4-H families, locally and regionally, as well as youth across our school districts. Important dates include 4-H Club Days which provide our 4-H members with an opportunity for learning in Communication Skills, a regional 4-H Fiber Arts Day, and presenting as a part of GB Reads. 

Volunteering includes serving as a cantor for my church and an officer in a state cattle organization that I am enthusiastic about. These provide moments to share my gifts while receiving so much in return as I refuel myself.

I consider myself a life-long learner and that has impacts both personal and professional. I have several opportunities to attend trainings and conferences this year and I look forward to expanding my thought process and my skill set.

I see all the possibilities of a new planner and a new year! What does a new planner hold for you? I am wishing you a new year of learning, of good work, and finding how you impact the world around you!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent for the Cottonwood District, Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.