Have you ever picked a word to guide you for an entire year? Just one word. It's easy to create goals or to set intentions (I'm not a fan of “resolutions” you can read why here). Those, however, usually encompass more than just one word. Condensing everything you want for the year ahead into just one word is never an easy task.
For me it requires a lot of introspection. Deeply searching for something that really resonates and helps me grow in some way. The first year I did this practice I discovered how amazing it was to have a word to guide you. I check in regularly with my word and see how things are going. It can be very centering; it's a wonderful way to help you stay on track.
When I began to think about the word of the year this time, I was astonished to see how many words (and how many years) I have been doing this. Previous words have been:
That's a lot of words. As I look over the list I find myself smiling as I remember certain challenges in that year or how that particular word really resonated.
The search for meaning
This year the word found me although I didn't know it at the time. Back in November I was at my friend Doni Langlois' studio to pick up some ceramics. I saw the lovely heart-rattle (the picture at the top) and felt drawn to it so I purchased it as a gift for myself.
In the middle of December as I began my annual word-search process I kept coming back to this beautiful heart sitting near my desk. I thought I wanted a different word but this heart kept speaking to me. Eventually I realized that the reason I couldn't find a word was because this year it was sitting right in front of me.
BRAVE
adjective, brav·er, brav·est.
possessing or exhibiting courage or courageous endurance.
making a fine appearance.
noun
a brave person.
a warrior, especially among North American Indian tribes.
verb (used with object), braved, brav·ing.
to meet or face courageously
to defy; challenge; dare.
It turns out this word is multipurpose, being a verb, adjective, and a noun. As I think about it I realize that I am setting a big intention out there in the world by choosing this word. I asking myself to:
- be brave, to stand up to those things or situations that make me nervous or fearful
- to dare to speak out with courage where necessary
- to endure
I know that although the way doesn't always seem so clear at the beginning of the year when I pick my word, as the year progresses the word always seems to resonate throughout all aspects of my life.
Join me
What's your word? What intentions are you setting as we move forth into this shiny, sparkly space of new year? I'd love for you to join me by choosing your own word. If you want you can even join a word tribe over at OneWord365 and see who else has picked the same word.
What ever lies ahead, my wish for you is one of peace, happiness, and good health. Be well.