A new year. A new chance to start over. A new chance to do something different. A new chance to take control.
I know I don’t have to wait until January 1 to make changes. I know there is no right or wrong time to better myself. But, I also like the natural beginning of a new year and a new month.
For years now I have been picking a word to focus on for the year. Some years go better than others. Despite my plans and hopes and dreams, 2015 didn’t offer as much forward momentum as I had hoped. I could choose to be disappointed, but I’m not. Instead, I’m focusing on this year and what I want it to be.
My 2016 word is PROGRESS. It may seem like no big deal, but it’s a big one for me. I tend to have an all or nothing personality, especially when it comes to projects and expectations. I put a lot of pressure on myself to be the best at everything. When I attempt something and I don’t immediately get it right or succeed, I consider it a failure. It’s a character flaw that I need to focus on and I’m really happy to say I’ve already made a lot of positive changes in this regard, but I’m ready to do more.
So, 2016 is about PROGRESS.
It’s not about getting to my goal weight – it’s about getting healthier every day.
It’s not about running a marathon – it’s about increasing my cardiovascular health.
It’s not about writing the next Great American Novel – it’s about writing and enjoying the process.
It’s not about having the right answers – it’s about living the questions fully.
It’s not about being right – it’s about being kind.
It’s not about the next 5 years – it’s about living in the moment.
It’s about being happy with the Emily I am now, but wanting to be a better version of myself, too.
What is your One Word for 2016?