An unexpected word for the year

Well, 2021 has already been full of surprises, hasn’t it?  

At the end of December I wrote about the words that felt meaningful for me going into the new year:

Slow.

Strength.

Space.

I knew it would take all of these to build what comes next after everything we’ve experienced.

When you choose a word for the year, it’s important to choose something that feels motivating. That inspires you to take action, but also distills what’s important. So you aren’t distracted. So you can stay focused on what really matters most to you this year instead of trying to do it all. At its best, a word for the year reminds you instantly what to do next. It doesn’t have to sum up everything, but it should help you get back on track.

Here are some examples from past years:

In 2020, my word was transform (and boy did we ever!).

In 2019, my word was adventure (because we started our life on the farm and I needed that adventurous mindset).

In 2018, my word was enCOURAGE (because I was tackling big goals and overcoming some negative old stories in work and life).

In 2017, my word was light (because my sunny second baby arrived on January 10).

Of the three words I was exploring for 2021, “strength” really resonated the most.  I started weight training again at home.  I wanted to feel strong, grounded, rooted.  Capable and powerful. It made sense. I was regaining my footing after a tumultous 2020. I also focused on all of the things I learned and accomplished in an unlikely year. Focusing on the strength that I gained through it all. Replaying the good moments and not just the anxious, hard ones.

And yet, something was missing.

The call to action.  What’s it all for?  What do I need the slowness, the strength, and the space to create?  Because for me, all this wasn’t worth it if I can’t see big results, real transformation, and meaningful action.  I came so far and I want to know that I can follow through and create something incredible, something…

Bold.

It might not be a perfect word (and that’s fine!), but it’s challenging me in just the right way.

So I’m resolved: in 2021, I want to feel strong and live boldly.  I will move at my own pace and take up space.  I will choose wisely and deliberately.  I will listen to my intuition and take action when I know it’s right. 

My friend Shanna Hocking has a podcast called One Bold Move a Day.  It’s the perfect call to action for a year full of the unexpected. 

The rules are out the window now, y’all.

Be bold.  Design the life you want.  I’m doing it right alongside you.  And there’s no looking back.

Are you choosing a word for the year? Or taking it day by day? Send me a note and let me know what feels right.

PS Regardless of the word you choose, you can find a great list of options and fun (free!) desktop and phone backgrounds from the fabulous Cultivate What Matters shop.  Enjoy!

PPS You can change your word whenever you want.