Two years ago rather than come up with a list of resolutions that I knew I most likely wouldn’t keep I chose a word to be my “theme” for the year – gratitude.
My intention was to have that word be something I worked on regularly and help me stay on track with my goals and purpose. I’d read about the idea in a novel by Debbi Macomber entitled Thursdays at Eight and really loved how choosing a word for the year impacted the characters.
Life can be a trip, I tell you. Two years ago today (and two days after posting my 2011 focus on gratitude post), my uncle passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack. Some days were much harder than others, but I made it a point to express thanks and gratitude for life’s treasures on a daily basis. I decided to continue my my gratitude theme into 2012, as well.
2013 is bringing some shifts into my life both personally and professionally. The word focus keeps coming to mind so I’m deeming that my word for this year.
When I reflect on 2012 and all the zipping and zooming that I did – I realized something. I did lots of “stuff” but it doesn’t seem like I really accomplished anything. On a regular basis, it seems like I’m super busy but I’m not getting a sense of completion.
This year I will be paying close attention to where I choose to spend my time and energy. I want to be more focused and streamlined with my blog, personal time and professional goals.
I will be more diligent with setting S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-based) to ensure I’m not busy doing a bunch of nothing.
I’m, also, eliminating some things, people and organizations from my schedule. Some I’ve outgrown and it’s time to move on. We’ve met our purpose in each other’s lives. We’ve grown together, learned from one another and need to separate before we begin to bring one another down.
I’m looking forward to another year of growth and living life to it’s fullest. Welcome 2013!
Michelle Garrett says
Thanks!!!
Michelle Garrett says
You are so right! Best of luck as you work on increasing your will power and the positive changes you'll see in your diet, fitness, school work, writing and organization. You can do it, Diva!
Michelle Garrett says
Love it! Happy New Year!
Michelle Garrett says
Happy New Year to you! Just know that because you chose patience – it will seem as though it's tested even more now … you're an awesome wife and mommy – enjoy the moments and remember to take time out for you…even if it's just a few moments in the bathroom to paint your toe nails 🙂
Michelle Garrett says
I like! I'm guilty of second and third and fourth guessing myself from time to time.
Michelle Garrett says
Great word and goals! I'm definitely on a hunt for the book! I do remember it was about a group of women of different ages, backgrounds, etc that met in a writing class and continued meeting weekly afterwards. It follows them through a year and their experiences and how their word choice impacted their decisions throughout the year. I'm going to find it and probably blog about it…LOL
Michelle Garrett says
Thanks! Appreciate you taking the time to read and respond!
Michelle Garrett says
Thank you Dede! I have to admit that the past few years have taught me tons about inner strength. Wishing you the best, as well!
Nicole Palmer Williams says
FOCUS…! That's a great theme.
Ava Z. says
My theme would be WILL POWER. I think that goes hand in hand with your focus theme. I set attainable goals, but never follow through. This year, I'd like to see my will power change, over my diet, my fitness, my school work, my writing, my organization. P.S. I love the idea of giving the new year a theme. 8 )
Misty Kearns says
Great post. My word/theme/#1 goal for 2013 is BALANCE!
bloggingwhilenursing says
Focus is an excellent word to choose, also I love the SMART idea. Something that I need to do. This year I did choose a word, I picked Patience. With a new addition and my lack of understanding of my own limitations, I totally need it. Happy New Year to you!
Crystal Green says
I've read this on many other bloggers as well. I have NOT heard that the idea came from a book though. 🙂 I'd love to know the name of the book as well when you figure out the name of it. 🙂 Great word choice for 2013. If I had to choose a word for 2013, I've had to say organize. I do declare I'm trying to keep my home more organized, keep all of my blogging information/schedule more on track, and I'm also trying to organize more time with my family and get togethers with friends and meet new people. 🙂
Mommy_Jennof3 says
Great post! I love the SMART tip!
Michelle Garrett says
Yay! I love that it's being embraced by so many this year!
Michelle Garrett says
Thanks so much Sheila! Appreciate the kind words and support!
Sheila Skillingstead says
Couldn't make a link because I don't have a blogger account. I will check with my Webmaster and see if I can set it up another way. Great post.
Sheila Skillingstead says
I am popping in from SITS. You visited my site today and liked the post I wrote about 26 Acts of Kindness. I like what I've read here. I'm going to do a link to this post.
Amanda @ Survival Guide by The Working Mom says
I love the idea of a yearly theme! I think my would be "final decisions"
Dede says
I'm sorry for the loss you've experienced, but it sounds like you have really moved past it to be a stronger person. I wish you all the best in 2013.
Sheila says
I signed up for this earlier.. great idea!