I haven't made a New Year's resolution since 2010. But I do set a lot of goals for myself and many of them at the beginning of the year. I love fresh starts, clean slates, Mondays, list-making, and a new school year. The beginning of a new year is like all of those wrapped up together with a big, red bow. And resolutions weren't enough for me. In a way, they were too specific. For example, resolving to stop drinking cans of ice-cold heaven disguised as a can of Coke didn't really get to the root of my goal - which was to be healthier and to set a better example for my kids. And I felt like a total failure if I slipped and had even a sip.
So, for the past several years, I've followed along with Ali Edwards' One Little Word® prompt and class. Choosing One Little Word® is all about choosing a word to focus on throughout the year, rather than making resolutions.
A single word can be a powerful thing - a word to focus on, to live with, to investigate, to write about, to craft with, and to reflect upon as [you] go about your daily life.
- Ali Edwards
I participated in Ali's class in 2011 and that was the first year that I chose a word to focus on. I chose balance that year, followed by yes, dare, finish, and do was last year's word. I love focusing on a word and it gives me motivation and even courage when I question my goals or actions during the year.
Do was such a good word for me last year and, wow, we sure did a lot! A lot of college trips, a whole bunch of concerts, a trip to Maine without my husband that I would never have done before, and so many new experiences. It was a fantastic year in that respect and I have a feeling this coming year is going to be filled with even more new experiences.
Because of that and because I'm so apprehensive about some of them, I didn't let myself think too hard on this year's word. It came to me very quickly and my gut tells me there's a reason for it. There are a lot of changes on the horizon this year for our family and I hate change. It sucks, honestly. It doesn't come easily to me and I resist it at all costs.
So my word for 2016 is strength. My goal is to become stronger in many ways, physically and emotionally. But my goal is also to choose strength when I am faced with change. It's going to be a big year and I can't wait to see where it's going to take us. I hope that focusing on having strength will make it even better.
I also happened upon this bracelet on etsy recently and it totally reinforced my choice when I saw what it was. It's a celtic shield knot pattern and has the traditional meaning of strength and protection. Of course, I bought it. You can see it here if you're interested. :) Photo credit: Brangcelet Boutique by Alida
Happy New Year to everyone!
