4 Areas that Will Help you Grow in 2026
Lifelong Learning
Equipping parents during their child’s academic years to bring learning to daily moments.
The Parenting IQ Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org
On today’s episode…
Start your year with purpose! In this episode, Dr. Kelly Cagle shares four key areas that will help you embrace a lifelong learner mindset in 2026: writing things down, simplifying your life, staying connected to life-giving people, and stopping comparison quickly. With honest stories and practical tips, Kelly invites you to grow alongside her—one intentional step at a time.
Show Notes
4 Areas That Will Help You Grow in 2026
by Dr. Kelly Cagle
As we step into 2026, I wanted to start the year with a heart-to-heart message that sets the tone for intentional growth. This episode kicks off our January series, A Lifelong Learner Mindset, where I share why embracing lifelong learning is one of the most powerful tools for personal transformation.
Whether you’re navigating motherhood, building a business, pursuing education, or simply trying to be more present at home, the mindset of a lifelong learner allows you to stay curious, grounded, and purpose-driven. Drawing from my personal experiences — from pursuing my Ph.D. with three kids at home to learning how to follow a brownie recipe without disaster — this episode is full of honest reflections and practical encouragement for any season of life.
What’s Inside This Episode
I unpack four key areas that are helping me stay grounded and growing in 2026:
1. Write Everything Down
When your brain feels like a browser with 47 open tabs, writing things down is essential. It helps clear mental clutter, prevent overwhelm, and creates space for intentional action — especially if you're navigating ADHD, like I am.
2. Simplify
More is not better. By simplifying your calendar, your commitments, and even your home environment, you’ll reduce burnout and increase your ability to stay present and joyful in the everyday.
3. Stay Connected to Life-Giving People
Whether it’s a friend, a community group, or a virtual support circle, the people you surround yourself with can either drain or fill your tank. Life-giving relationships fuel your growth and help you stay resilient when things get hard.
4. Stop Comparison Quickly
Comparison steals joy and distracts from your God-given assignment. Whether on social media or in real life, stay focused on your own calling. The only person you need to outgrow is the person you were yesterday.
Key Quotes from the Episode
“You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room — just be the most curious.”
“The moment I step into a room and think I have nothing to learn is the moment I fail.”
“Stop comparison quickly — and get back to your mission.”
A Word of Encouragement
I’m not your expert — I’m your fellow learner. And as I grow this year, I’m inviting you to grow with me. Every single episode planned for 2026 was prayerfully considered with you in mind. Because when one mom or dad grows, a child is transformed, and a home is strengthened.
Let’s choose growth in 2026 — together.
Struggling with screen time and safe tech? Dr. Kelly is proud to partner with Gabb Wireless—the phone that protects childhood. It's a perfect complement to fostering focused, grounded kids in a distracted world.
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