The BOLD (In a Word)
This month our theme is Speak, Think and Create. This is the second principle of the Prospects of Possibility™, the framework for change that I help my clients navigate as they design their clarity. Language is generative—it is the tool we use to build new possibilities. The language that we use to think and to communicate, the language that we accept from other people, defines what we even see as possible. Our words matter.
That is precisely why I set a word for the year, as many people do. I first learned this practice from Dr. Henry Cloud and it has been a cherished, powerful practice. By setting a one-word theme for the year, we can create focus, invite exploration and establish a trajectory.
The Whisper (Let it Go)
Every year at this time, I spend some time discovering the one word that will launch an adventure for the year to come. Last year, my theme was Nurture. This year, it is Release. Past one-word themes have included Courage and Allow.
Why Set a One-Word Theme
A one-word theme sets an intention for the year in a simple, tightly bound little package. What can setting a one-word theme accomplish?
It invites exploration. How will that word show up this year? What will I learn about this theme? Will it be what I think it is or will it invite a flood of new learning? Will it change from what it seemed to be when I set the theme?
It sets a trajectory. A word of the year is almost the opposite of a smart goal. A smart goal has a timestamp, a defined outcome and perhaps even an imbedded methodology. Goals are important, of course. A one-word theme is a declaration of a direction. It allows for much more meandering. It will take you where it wants you to go along a trajectory in a chosen direction.
It creates focus. If you take the time to check in with the word throughout the year, it can help you to focus your efforts, your goals, your learning and your thoughts on the direction this word suggests.
How to Set a One-Word Theme
It can be tricky to think of a single word for a period of time as vast as a year. Here are some guideless for the process:
- Think about the themes that have been emerging for you lately. Have you been hearing a quote over and over? About what are you curious? This could be a good direction for your focus.
- Make a list of words that appeal to you. Now make a list of words that scare you just a little bit. Are there any words on both lists?
- This is the farthest thing from perfection. I usually spend a little time tumbling some words about until one starts to stick. It is not an exercise in perfection—there is a whole year and if a new word emerges, that’s great. Just pick something.
Releasing the Un- in 2020
I’ve selected Release as my 2020 word. I will release a great deal this year. I will continue losing weight, releasing the unnecessary extra that impacts my health and vitality. I will release clutter. I’ve been purging my paper files, recycling pounds and pounds of unneeded paperwork. I will release debt by eliminating unfulfilling spending in order to increase my husband’s student loan payments. I will release unhealthy ways of thinking, unrewarding habits, and unpleasant worry. I will unburden myself of as many un’s as possible.
How about you? Please share your word of the year with me. Let’s go on a one-word adventure together.
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