Do You Have One Word?
I’m sure many of you have heard the latest craze for selecting a word for 2017. I must admit, I thought it was a little silly at first. But a good friend of mine has been doing this for several years, and she has found it incredibly inspirational.
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The idea was reintroduced to me when I was perusing the internet one evening. I came across an article showing bracelets made by an interesting organization, Myintent.org. It has become a very popular concept — choosing ONE WORD that speaks to your specific passions, goals, purpose, etc. It got me thinking about what word I might possibly select that could apply to all areas of my life.
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What is your word?
Many words came to mind, but the one word I kept coming back to was focus. This just fits this phase of my life! I have really felt the need to focus on things that are important and have meaning to me.
I find I become easily distracted with the busyness of life…to do lists, Facebook, mindless television, projects, kids’ activities, etc. I also frequently feel overwhelmed by all of the things I need to accomplish, but allow myself to become paralyzed, turning to any distraction I can find to avoid just jumping in.
My goal for 2017 is to be more focused.
For me, this means sifting through my life to determine what really matters and focusing on only the important stuff. It means turning off the television and radio when I am spending time in God’s word, so I can truly focus on Him and the message I am reading. It means being more present when I’m with my husband, friends, and/or children, focusing on the things that I know are important for us and our relationships with one another.
It means giving 100% when I am at work, focusing on doing my personal best at all times when I am working. It means getting rid of general distractions in my life and avoiding negativity so I can focus on things that I find meaningful. It means focusing on healthy living, being mindful of how my daily choices impact my life.
This word represents a shift in my thinking. I am a big fan of checking things off my list, but I’m often reminded that some things on my list aren’t worth doing. I”m committing to being more discerning of what deserves my focus and letting the rest go.
For my type A personality, this is going to be challenging. But, I can already see the positive impact this will have for me personally and professionally. When I try to do too many things, nothing gets completed well. FOCUS on what is important!
Make a bracelet with your word!
I made my own bracelet, because I thought this would be more meaningful. I used a leather bracelet from Hobby Lobby and my wood burner to engrave focus.
I love it! I’m hoping it’s a constant reminder to live out my focus and prioritize my life in ways that I’m proud of.
What do you think?
Do you have one word?
If so, I would love to hear what word you selected and what led you to that decision. Leave me a quick note!
Inspiration/Motivation Posts
April, I can’t believe I found you on here. I feel like I’m going back in time! Focus was my word last year! I too thought it was silly at first and only started about two or three years ago. This year I chose the word -finish. In our busy life I’m always feeling like I have so many things, ideas, lists I’ve started but haven’t finished. This year I’m “focusing” on those things I want to finish!
Great minds think alike, Kristina! It sounds like we are leading similar lives…with an active family, it is so easy to get overwhelmed. I love “finish”! I, too, will keep on focusing until I finish. Perhaps that will lead me to only start what is really important. I’m so glad you commented. Please stay connected!
Love FOCUS as your word choice. Very meaningful. I have been thinking about my “word of the year” since first reading this post. I think I will go with CULTIVATE. I want to cultivate positive qualities such as patience and generosity. I also want to cultivate new skills. Perhaps work skills, hobbies, and personal interests. I love learning and this emphasis on CULTIVATE matches my life goals.
I love CULTIVATE, very creative and beautiful. Good luck with your word and all of the goals that go with it. Please keep me posted!