A New Year, A New Start in Scouting

The New Year is a time when people think about what happened last year and what they want to do better in the next one. For Scouts, the New Year isn’t just about staying up late or watching fireworks — it’s about starting fresh and getting ready for new adventures.

Thinking About Last Year

When I look back on the past year in Scouting, I think about campouts, meetings, and the things I learned along the way. Some things were easy, like hanging out with friends, and some things were harder, like trying new skills or stepping up as a leader. Even when things didn’t go perfectly, I still learned something.

Scouting teaches us that it’s okay to mess up as long as you learn from it and keep trying. Every year helps us grow more confident and prepared.

New Year Goals (Scout Style)

A lot of people make New Year’s resolutions, but Scouts try to make goals that actually matter. This year, a Scout might want to earn a new rank, finish a merit badge, or get better at outdoor skills. Some goals aren’t about awards at all — like being more helpful at meetings, listening better, or helping younger Scouts feel welcome.

In Scouting, even small goals are important because they help us become better people.

Starting the Year as a Team

One of the best parts of Scouting is that you’re never doing it alone. A new year means new campouts, service projects, and chances to work together. Older Scouts can help younger Scouts, and new Scouts bring excitement and fresh ideas to the troop.

Scouting is more fun when everyone supports each other and works as a team.

Living the Scout Oath All Year

The New Year is a good reminder to live by the Scout Oath and Law all year long — not just at meetings or campouts. Being trustworthy, helpful, and kind matters at school, at home, and everywhere else too.

Scouting helps us be better people, not just better Scouts.

Looking Ahead

As the New Year starts, I’m excited about what’s coming next. There will be challenges, new skills to learn, and lots of memories to make. No matter what happens, Scouting helps guide us forward.

Here’s to a New Year full of adventure, learning, and teamwork.

Happy New Year, and happy Scouting! ⚜️

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Discussion Questions

1. What is one Scouting memory from last year that really stands out to you?

2. What is one thing you learned in Scouting last year?

3. What is one goal you want to set for yourself in Scouting this year?

4. How can older Scouts help younger Scouts in the New Year?

5. Which part of the Scout Oath or Law do you want to work on most this year, and why?

6. How can Scouting help you outside of meetings and campouts?