But one thing that I have found helpful over the years (as I'm sure many of you have too) is choosing a word that will frame the year - because you can't do everything at the same time, right? There's a season for everything - some years might take a slower pace and involve self care or rest, or creativity. And other years might require a faster pace, because you're forging a new path or starting something new - and so your focus is going to be different.
Well 2019, for me, is going to be one of those years where I'm going to be forging a different path (I know it!) so I needed a real action word! And I've settled on the word INVEST.
Here's why: I recognise that often in my life, I lack discipline. Now, I want to live my life with wisdom and most of the time, I know what I *should* be doing - but often it never gets done, or I choose the less-wise option! I also recognise that this is going to get me nowhere in life!
So I was looking at my life and thinking about where I wanted to be, what did I want to do and where was it all going and I kept coming back to the point that I want to leave a legacy. Not just a financial legacy for my kids (though that would be awesome!), but also a legacy of wisdom, a legacy of laughter... just that my life might count for something. And I feel like going through the motions, and just surviving is not going to get me to that point when I'm old and grey!
BUT, my lack of discipline is probably one of the biggest obstacles to this ultimate dream.
Now, the word discipline is a pretty depressing word. Not only does it carry negative connotations (though it's actually a very positive thing), but it's not that inspiring and it's also not really an action word. So my word for 2019 was certainly not going to be discipline! Haha.
I did consider the word legacy - but this seemed pretty out there and a bit too broad.
So I settled on INVEST because it's all about making me question my actions wisely It's about all those small decisions adding up to create something great.
- Is this a good way to invest my money?
- Is this a good investment of my time?
- Is this where I want to be investing my emotions?
- Am I investing in the things that are truly important to me?
- Am I investing in my relationships?
- Will this investment yield a return - whether material, relational or emotional?
If I can allow the idea of wise investment to frame all of my decisions, and drive me forward in certain areas then I think this could be quite a springboard year into a new season (which is exactly what I need right now!)
And, although it's only January 12th, I can already see that I am making a few wiser decisions.
I do have some more specific goals that are tied in with my Word for the Year, but I'll share those with you another time.
Do you have a word for the year? Tell me about it!
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