10 New Year Goals for Family Historians: A Fresh Start to Your Genealogy Journey
10 New Year Goals for Family Historians: A Fresh Start to Your Genealogy Journey
As the New Year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on where we’ve been and set goals for the path ahead. For family historians, this is a chance to dive deeper into research, uncover new stories, and preserve precious family memories. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just starting, these 10 actionable goals will help you make the most of your family history journey this year. Let’s get started!
1. Create a Research Plan
A well-organized research plan is the foundation of productive genealogy work. Start by identifying key questions or ancestors you’d like to focus on. Set specific goals for each ancestor or question, such as finding birth records, locating family gravesites, or learning about migration patterns.
Action Steps:
Identify Research Goals: Define specific questions or ancestors to focus on.
Set Milestones: Break down your research into manageable steps.
Track Progress: Use a research log or genealogy software to document completed tasks and areas needing follow-up.
2. Organize Digital and Physical Files
With countless records, photos, and notes accumulated over the years, organizing your files is essential. A well-organized system saves time and makes it easier to share findings with family members.
Action Steps:
Sort and Label Documents: Organize files by family line or record type.
Create Digital Backups: Use cloud storage or an external drive for backup.
Establish a Filing System: Use binders, folders, or archival boxes for physical files; for digital files, create a structured naming system.
3. Interview Elder Relatives
Some of the best sources of family history are the people who lived it. Schedule time to interview older family members, asking open-ended questions to encourage storytelling. These conversations can reveal details you won’t find in documents.
Action Steps:
Schedule Conversations: Arrange an interview in person, by phone, or video call.
Prepare Questions: Draft open-ended questions to prompt storytelling.
Record the Interviews: Use a smartphone or recording device (with permission) to capture these memories.
4. Explore DNA Testing
DNA testing has become an invaluable tool for genealogists, helping to confirm relationships and uncover new family connections. If you haven’t already taken a DNA test, now might be the time to explore it.
Action Steps:
Choose a Testing Service: Research providers like AncestryDNA, 23andMe, or MyHeritage.
Analyze Current Results: Review your matches and reach out to potential relatives.
Join DNA Communities: Engage with online groups for additional support and advice.
5. Digitize Family Heirlooms and Photos
Preserving family heirlooms and photos digitally is a great way to protect them for future generations. It’s also an excellent opportunity to share these treasures with relatives.
Action Steps:
Gather Materials: Collect photos, documents, and heirlooms for digitization.
Use a Scanner or Mobile App: High-resolution scanning tools or apps like Photomyne can help create digital copies.
Organize and Label: Label scanned files with names, dates, and locations.
6. Join a Genealogy Group or Society
Connecting with other genealogists can provide valuable resources, support, and inspiration. Many societies offer webinars and events where you can expand your knowledge.
Action Steps:
Research Local and Online Groups: Look for societies in your area or join virtual communities.
Attend Meetings or Webinars: Many groups offer affordable webinars on research techniques.
Network and Collaborate: Connect with group members for advice or collaborative research.
7. Learn to Use New Research Tools
The field of genealogy is constantly evolving, with new tools and databases emerging all the time. Set a goal to master at least one new tool or resource this year.
Action Steps:
Identify a New Tool: Try a resource like FamilySearch Wiki, Chronicling America, or a local newspaper archive.
Take an Online Course: Platforms like Family Tree University or YouTube offer tutorials on various genealogy tools.
Practice Using the Tool: Test your new skills by researching a specific ancestor or event.
8. Update and Maintain a Family Tree
Keeping your family tree current is essential for an accurate record of your discoveries. Make time to update your tree with recent findings and review existing data for accuracy.
Action Steps:
Review and Verify Data: Double-check dates, names, and places for accuracy.
Add New Information: Incorporate recent discoveries and family connections.
Use Tree-Building Software: Consider software like Family Tree Maker or Ancestry.com to keep information accessible.
9. Visit Ancestral Locations (Virtually or in Person)
Visiting ancestral locations can help you feel closer to your family’s past. If travel isn’t possible, virtual tours offer a glimpse of where your ancestors lived.
Action Steps:
Research the Location: Learn about the hometown’s history and records available.
Plan a Virtual Tour: Explore Google Earth, local museum websites, or historical societies with digital exhibits.
Document Your Visit: Take notes, screenshots, or photos to add to your family records.
10. Write a Family Story or Timeline
Documenting your family’s history in a narrative or timeline format can bring it to life for others. Whether it’s a short biography of an ancestor or a family migration timeline, this goal can turn your research into a story worth sharing.
Action Steps:
Select an Ancestor or Branch: Choose a specific ancestor or family branch to document.
Gather Key Events: List significant life events in chronological order.
Create a Narrative or Visual Timeline: Write a story or create a timeline that captures the essence of your ancestor’s journey.
