Did you set any meaningful goals for 2012? I don’t mean trite resolutions that are discarded by Epiphany; I mean goals that ultimately move you forward on your path to sainthood.

If you haven’t made any such goals, don’t worry. With most of the year remaining, you still have time.

As you think about what you would like to accomplish in 2012 — both at home and in the workplace — let me encourage you to start by reading two books.

First, read “Rediscover Catholicism: A spiritual guide to living with passion & purpose” by Matthew Kelly. My parish gave away copies to everyone who attended Mass on Christmas. The book is a surprisingly compelling call-to-action for Catholics. Kelly, an Australian-born business consultant, posits that the Catholic Church has what everyone is looking for: the key to happiness.

“Our quest for happiness is a quest for God,” he says.

Providing lots of examples, Kelly challenges Catholics to show the rest of the world what it means to live the faith. All your actions preach something; Kelly urges you to act in a way that preaches your faith.

As you determine goals for the year, think about what your pursuit of those goals will preach to others.

Spiritual grounding is the foundation of self-knowledge. Before you can do much for anyone else, you have to know yourself and it simply isn’t possible to really know yourself outside of a relationship with Christ.

Take the test

Second, read “Strengths Based Leadership: Great leaders, teams, and why people follow,” by Tom Rath and Barry Conchie.

Using results from thousands of Gallop Organization interviews, the authors explore leadership and teamwork. The book is 266 pages but you only need to read the first 95 to get the message.

I particularly like this book because each copy provides a unique code that gives the reader access to a test-taking website where your strengths can be identified.

The test asks nearly 200 questions, allowing 20 seconds for each response. Questions typically pose two ideas and require the respondent to choose one over the other on a sliding scale.

The computer summarizes your responses, providing a very interesting picture of your strengths — and weaknesses.

My own test results surprised me, although they made sense after I thought about it for a while. The idea is that with a solid understanding of your own strengths and weaknesses, you can better determine the best use of your time, talent and resources.

Goals are important. Take time to contemplate who you are and what God wants for you. Then, set goals accordingly.

Purposeful living at home and at work will help you make the most of 2012.

Tom Bengtson writes about the integration of faith and work. Contact him through his web site: http://www.TomBengtson.com.