Beginning Well: 7 Spiritual Practices for the First Year of Almost Anything

by Joel Stepanek

Overview

Are you starting a new job, retiring, getting married, expanding your family, or making any significant change in your life?

The first year of almost anything new can be both a blessing and a challenge. In Beginning Well, Joel Stepanek, vice president of parish services at Life Teen International, shows how being shaken out of your routine when you start something new can free you to become a better Christian. He offers seven spiritual practices to get you through transitions and help you lay a strong foundation for true happiness.

Stepanek has worked in pastoral ministry and organizational development for more than fifteen years; he understands that life’s transitions are important to spiritual and emotional well-being and provide the chance to see Christ in places you may not have thought to look before. Stepanek will help you refine your thoughts and behavior to more closely align your life to the Gospel as you grow through your first year of almost anything.

In Beginning Well, you will learn how to

• let go of what you left;
• use what you’ve already learned;
• ask, listen, watch, and learn;
• create routines and rituals to help bridge the old and the new;
• pause and assess;
• find a good mentor; and
• seek and embrace joy.

Stepanek draws on his experience, personal faith, biblical narrative, and Catholic tradition to show you how to grow and thrive as you begin your next big thing.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781646801367
Publisher:	Ave Maria Press
Publication date:	02/11/2022
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	160
File size:	3 MB

About the Author

Joel Stepanek is chief mission officer for the National Eucharist Congress. He has more than fifteen years of experience in ministry and previously served as vice president of parish services at Life Teen International. Stepanek speaks internationally to groups of all sizes, ages, and vocations, and is the author or coauthor of a number of books, including Beginning Well, Chasing Humility, True North, The Greatest Job on Earth, and The 99.

Stepanek earned a master’s degree in religious education with an emphasis in youth and young adult ministry from Fordham University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Colorado State University. He has served as an adjunct faculty member at Franciscan University of Steubenville.

He and his wife, Colleen, live in Gilbert, Arizona, with their children.

Table of Contents

Introduction xi

1 Let Go of What You Left 1

2 Use What You've Learned 19

3 Ask, Listen, Watch (Repeat) 37

4 Create Rituals and Grab a Coffee 55

5 Pause and Assess 73

6 Find Your Jedi 95

7 Embrace Joy 117

Epilogue 135

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“Power-packed with insightful stories, practicality, and Christ-centered encouragement.” —Emily Wilson Hussem, Catholic YouTuber, speaker, and author

“Joel Stepanek offers a plan for peace and confidence as you navigate transitions in life. If you want advice and coaching that combine faith and serious practical know-how, this is the book for you!” —Andrew D. Swafford, associate professor of theology at Benedictine College

“Joel Stepanek gives a clear and captivating message: Beginnings are a gift and knowing the Lord as you pursue new things is the way to succeed. I found this book to be a great source of inspiration and encouragement.” —Katie Prejean McGrady, host of the Ave Explores podcast and The Katie McGrady Show on SiriusXM

“This book could not have been timelier! I am beginning my first year as the bishop of Duluth and the practical suggestions, spiritual directions, and scriptural applications have been very helpful as I navigate my new beginning. If you are embarking on something new, let Joel Stepanek be your guide and companion. I did and have not looked back!” —Bishop Daniel J. Felton, Diocese of Duluth

“This joyful book celebrates the art of beginning well; a healthy mix of the right behaviors and attitudes. Filled with relatable stories and practical wisdom, readers are reminded to rely on Jesus in their daily lives and embrace the future with confidence. Life becomes an adventure when we seize each new opportunity with a little discipline and a lot of love!” —Jennifer Baugh, founder and executive director of Young Catholic Professionals