A common practice for bloggers and other lifelong learners is to pick one word to focus on as an intention for each new year. For some reason, the word “flexible” or flexibility popped into my mind within the first couple of days of 2018. Ever since then I’ve been playing with the idea. Like buying a new outfit, it’s important to see if your word fits you—to see if it has a hold of you. Now, with January quickly coming to an end, I decided it was time to reveal my word for 2018 to the world. Plus, I want to invite any of you who haven’t yet picked a word, to join me in allowing one word to mold your life in a more positive and SMART way for the remainder of the year.
That sounds easy, right? But what makes picking a word challenging is that by putting it out for all of you to see, and most especially my husband Thom, that means that it might be used against me. Before if I was impatient, controlling, over-planning or attached to something, I could just behave that way and carry on with my day. Now, with my word so obviously in contrast to my old habits, I must do my best to be more flexible, fluid and adaptable as I move ahead in this world. And by telling others, and most especially anyone close to us, we become even more accountable for our intentions.
How do you know if your word is the right word? I’m guessing that if your word doesn’t make you squirm a bit, or at least generate excitement, it might not be the right one. Picking a word is an enticement to reach for something we believe has value. But like so many things, it really depends on what is important to you in the coming year. Want to focus on “health?” That’s always good, but then know that the idea of your health will stay front and center in your mind all year and guide everything you do—even when you’d rather do (or eat?) something else. And yes, that can be intimidating.
What about a word like “letting-go?” Again, that excellent word is an invitation to let go in every situation where it can apply in your life. How about: Trust? Love? or Peace? I think a key is to see both a benefit to your life and a trait you want to master. Even a positive looking word like “happy” requires a deeper awareness of when we are experiencing it, and when we’re not. And like I said above, by sharing it with others we hold ourselves accountable.
Some people like to make their word relate to their goals or intentions in life. If you want to make your word more related to your work than your personal life, no problem. Again, the idea is to look inside yourself and attempt to discover something you would like to see more of in your life.
Why did I pick the word flexible? I believe it will benefit me to learn to be more flexible in how I relate to my writing, my life and my relationships. Flexibility implies resiliency and adaptability to me. Like a tree in the wind, I want to be able to face anything without it breaking me. But it really doesn’t matter if anyone else understands why I think it is important. What matters is that I believe it will help to make me a better me.
Many others seem to think that picking a character trait is a good way to go. That’s why you’ll often see words like transformation, creativity, passion, freedom, success, thrive or any one of hundreds that might catch your eye. Some people suggest that you make a list of several dozen words that sound good to you, and then gradually narrow it down to the one that stands out. Others recommend meditating and asking your inner guidance. Remember, this word is your word, so never let someone else pick it for you.
Then what? Do you best to keep that word in front of you every day. I journal every day and I write it in a sentence every morning to remind me. Another idea would be to have sticky notes all over your house. Maybe set the alarm on your phone, knowing every time it goes off you will be reminded of your word. But perhaps the most obvious way to remember that word is to catch ourselves as much as possible when we act contrary to the word, and then adjust.
For example, last night I learned that some of my coming vacation plans could be dramatically affected by weather. Now I realize that this is definitely a “high-class problem” in the big scheme of things, but I had spent a lot of time and effort lining up all sorts of reservations, including making deposits and other details. To learn that might all be wasted, and worse completely canceled, threw my mind in revolt. Did I remember right then that I want to be more flexible? No. But I did this morning. And that might be the power of having a word as a guide. Next time I hope to remember it more quickly—until it becomes second nature.
A huge benefit of picking the right word is how it can guide our decisions and actions in a variety of ways. When I picked the word flexible, I didn’t just mean on a mental and emotional level. I also want to increase the flexibility of my body. Thom and I have been taking yoga once a week for several years. Earlier this month, with “flexible” on my mind, I signed up to attend a second yoga class with a different teacher for the coming six weeks. Now with a heightened focus on becoming more flexible, I hope it will get easier with each passing day.
Like New Year’s resolutions and most goal setting, I think picking a word can seem like something we do to make ourselves do things we may (or may not) want to do. And, in so many ways, goals often appear as a path away from something. Instead, choosing a word you wish to embody, gives you the opportunity to move towards something positive. By the end of 2018, my intention is that when something unexpected happens I flow with the situation, rather than fight it. Also, I plan for my body to stay healthy and flexible for all my needs. By choosing to be more flexible, regardless of how it looks to anyone else, I believe it will enable me to live a more happy, peaceful and compassionate life. Will it require me to change? Yes. But in the end, I see it as a path to a better me—the me I want to be in the years ahead.
So, what do you say? Will you pick a word and join me in making it yours for 2018? Just be honest with yourself about whether you are only interested in the idea, or truly committed to giving it a try. As author Ken Blanchard says, “There is a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.” Remember, it is SMART to commit ourselves to things that matter. But don’t worry, if you don’t follow through I’d never hold it against you. Why? —because I’m flexible!
Okay your turn: Have you ever picked a word for the year before? Do you have a word for 2018? Please share any experience you’ve had with this practice in the comments below.
My first thougt was “Right-sizing” but then I thought that is just because you like and write so much about it. But all week long I have been thinking about “Right-sizing” and since I still like it, that is what I choose. For me, I am right-sizing a short note.
Hi Gary! How great! Rightsizing really is a word that has multiple meanings that are unique to each individual. I didn’t think of it until you picked it but I can see where it would be a very powerful word. May your coming year be completely and totally “rightsized!” in every way! ~Kathy
Great choice of word! My phrase this year is ‘create peacefully’.
Hi Corrine! The idea of “create peacefully” is a wonderful thought. May that be your guiding star in the year ahead! ~Kathy
I love your word and I love the idea of writing it down each day, journaling about it. I chose the word abundance. It was dancing around my head the last couple of weeks of December to the point that I had to choose it even if it did make me squirm. Yes, it’s about financial health, but it’s also more than that. It’s about recognizing all that I have in my life.
Hi Jennifer! Abundance is an awesome word. And yes, as you say it really applies to all sorts of things and circumstances. And I’m firmly convinced that when we feel abundance in most areas of our lives, abundance flows EVERYWHERE! And I appreciate you saying that your word picked you as much as you picked it. I think that is a great way to know that it is the PERFECT word for us for a new year. May it fill you with all the abundance that your heart desires! ~Kathy
I believe I know the word that I would like to choose for 2018, but I need to “stew” on it for a couple of days. I want to make sure that it really fits me. I never thought about just choosing a “word” instead of setting a goal.
Much more achievable, I think….
Hi Eric! It’s a VERY good idea to stew on your word before picking it–just don’t let the impulse slip away and be forgotten! It’s so easy to think something is a good idea but a bit more tricky to actually take action on it–especially if you word is related to procrastination or perfectionism!!!! I hope you decide on a word and then come back and share it with all of us. Like I said, accountability is important. ~Kathy
HI Kathy, You’ve chosen an excellent word that works for you. My word of the year is Enjoy plus a list of 18 FEASTs to enjoy (Fitness, Entertainment, Arts, Social and Travels). I didn’t spend much time analyzing for a word as I don’t typically choose a word for the year. “Enjoy” came to my mind and seemed right for me.
Hi Natalie! I love that your word enjoy came to mind and you immediately saw how it led to all the FEASTs you wanted to experience in the year ahead. I think the more tags and references we can use for our “word” the better, because that will help us remember it over and over. May your year be filled with all the ENJOYment you can handle! ~Kathy
My word of the year is curmudgeon — just kidding! Although, I have been known to be overly helpful and accommodating at times, to the detriment of my own goals. One of the grand things that I am discovering about being retired is that you are much freer to be your own opinionated self, even a curmudgeon ?
Hi Jude! Who says curmudgeon isn’t a good word? Like so many things it just depends on the motivation behind it. If it reminds you to be more focused on your own needs and goals, then I’d say we can all use a dose of curmudgeon in our lives. And yes, aging definitely helps me get more in touch with, and accepting of that part of myself. Thanks for sharing what this post triggered in you. ~Kathy
My word for the year is “Clear” partly because someone gave me a rock with “Clear” printed on it, but also because it is exactly what I need to do. I need to be more clear about my goals and purpose to achieve my goals.
Hi Rebecca! Awwww….Clear is a great word too. And yes, I can see how that word would apply to many areas in my life just like most of the others. Actually, all these comments are giving me wonderful ideas for future “words.” And having that rock around in your house is a GREAT way to remember your word. Thanks for sharing with us Rebecca! ~Kathy
Hi Kathy, flexible is a great word. After a lot of thought I’ve picked “resilient.” At 75 I find I am having to reevaluate, reorganize, rethink often. It will remind me I can live with what I can’t change and that change is still possible. Thanks for the thought provoking post.
Hi Celia! Thank you so much for sharing your word with all of us. I agree that resilient is an amazing word and very powerful. I think it is easy at certain times of our lives to think we are strong, but only when we are challenged can we know for sure. Aging is one of those that require us to be resilient (and in my opinion be flexible) so that we can continue on knowing that life is still good and we are still okay no matter what. Good for you picking such an inspiring word. May it provide you with all the strength and encouragement you need as this year unfolds. ~Kathy
Being flexible is a very handy and satisfying character trait to have, but it sounds much easier than it is, as you have already experienced. It is a great word for the year and I’m curious to read your recap about it and its effects the end of the year.
I first heard about choosing a word for the new year from a writer friend in Texas, in 2006, when I was hanging around Austin for a few months. That year and the next few years I came up with my own words (like flexibility, patience…), but never gave them too much thought during the year. I’m not really a resolution person either. I know how to become a better person. Sometimes, I focus on that and improve, other times, I let things slide. 🙂
Hi Liesbet! Ha! Only another control-freak would understand how challenging my word can be. And yes, it does sound easier than it is. Hmmm…I hadn’t thought about doing a follow-up at the end of the year yet. But there’s another way to stay accountable huh? And I’m not into resolutions at all. That form never did work for me. But I’m like this idea of the “word” so let’s see how it goes. And if I just decide to let it slide, I could say I’m just being “flexible” couldn’t I? Hahahaha! Thanks for sharing that idea! ~Kathy
I’ve read several posts where the authors have shared their word for 2018. I have not done this yet, but because of your post and “instructions,” I believe I can discover the right word for this year. Flexible is a great choice, Kathy! I shall have to dig deep over the next weeks to discover my word. Thanks for the encouragement!
Hi Terri! I think it is a valuable exercise Terri. I read about others doing it over the last couple of years but never sat myself down and came up with one word. So far I am appreciating the focus of it as a simple way to approach my intentions for the coming year. Give it a try! You might find it equally as valuable. ~Kathy
Flexible is a great intention. I like that it has 2 meanings both of which are super important as we age. We all know people that are less flexible than others and it’s not particularly attractive in a social setting. It’s more fun and easier to hang out with people that are flexible. For years, I’ve been a S.M.A.R.T. goal setter and have definitely been happy with it, but I’ve noticed setting intentions has become more & more popular.
Hi Deb! Thank you. I think many of the words any of us pick has multiple meanings when we look at it from a big perspective, don’t you? And I agree that we all know people who are extremely rigid and unwilling to even try to see another option about anything. I find it particularly problematic with people as they age. We can easily get stuck in our ways if we are working to resist the temptation. I am hoping my focus on staying flexible will help me with that this year. And good for you for doing S.M.A.R.T. goals. They really are the best way to set them if you are going to do it at all. I think the focus on intentions is getting stronger because they usually put the focus on the meaning and consciousness behind the goal, rather than the goal itself. For some of us, me included!, that is helpful. Either way, it is good to see it catching on. Thanks for your thoughts on this. ~Kathy
Hi from Germany! Flexible is a fabulous word, Kathy! I hope you are very flexible, successful and healthy in 2018. My word is “Letting Go” as I’m reading the book Letting go by David Hawkins right now. That’s what I decided a few minutes ago. Thanks for the inspiration, Kathy. I still read every post you are writing, and almost every book you’ve been recommending. I love them all.
Your fan from Germany.
Gosina
Hi Gosina! So nice to hear from you. And you KNOW that I love your word too. And guess what Thom’s is? “Letting go!” It applies to so much doesn’t it? I hadn’t heard about that book before. Hmmm….so many books, so little time! Thank for you ongoing support and readership. Just knowing you are “out there” does my heart good. ~Kathy
Hi Kathy,
Love your blog. Thanks for sharing this. My word is “yes” with the hope of learning to switch things up a bit, become less of a creature of habit and make room for wonder!
Best wishes everyone.
Hi Sheryl Lee! Thank you…and YES to your yes! That is another word that I know I would benefit from using every single day. With all these great ideas I’m going to have an easy time next year picking my word. Meanwhile, may your “yes” word lead to your switching to wonder as the year unfolds. ~Kathy
My word for this year is kindness. When I respond to situations, think about others, or need to nurture myself this word is uppermost in how I will think and act. Perhaps as I set the example, others will also add this into their lives.
Hi Yvette! What a great word–kindness. Certainly I would benefit by thinking of that every day. And I completely agree that as we serve as an example, others will catch on. Thank you so much for sharing your word! ~Kathy
Flexible is a great word Kathy! Applicable for mind, body and spirit. I am playing around with a few words but none have really hit home yet for me to commit.
Hi Kathy,
How wonderful that in my pop over to see what your blog is all about, the first three things I come across are so familiar to me. Thing #1 – I too have six published books. Thing #2 – Pat and Donna are good blogging friends. Thing #3 – I’ve also written about a word for the year. This year my word is NOTICE, as in notice how I talk to myself (way too self-critical) and notice the world because I’m playing with art and need to pay attention, and because I’d like my next book to be a work of creative nonfiction so I need to do more noticing in order to write using all senses.
I’m looking forward to receiving future posts and to spending a bit of time exploring your archives.
Karen
Hi Karen! Nice to meet you too! And isn’t it funny that we both write about many of the same topics, have a lot in common, and haven’t run across each other until now? Regardless, I’m glad to know we have connected. And I also like your word “NOTICE”. That’s another one with scads of potential. May it lead you in all the directions you seek! ~Kathy
I’ve picked a word of the year the past 2 years. One was successful (Joy in 2016) and one not so much (Live in 2017). I looked into why one worked and the other didn’t as I choose my word for 2018. This year, my word is SOAR. And as my corporate self is still not completely gone, it stands for Savoring, Optimistic, Activating, and Resilient. 2 things to do, 2 things to be. Every morning I have asked myself….how will you soar today? and it’s been inspirational so far. I liked how you posted some how to and some why certain words don’t work… I probably needed that last year with Live. I also like your word – Flexibility. It would have been on my short list of ideas, as was Thrive – another blogger’ I read’s pick this year. So many powerful, inspiring words to help you focus on the year ahead!
Hi Pat! SOAR is wonderful! And again, I love that you made it an acronym like Mona did! What a great way to help you remember it. And I can see how it would be inspirational. I love the idea of the “word” because it is such a simple way to find out what is really going on inside of us–at least at the first of the year. It’s far too easy to pick a “motivational” word that we’ve heard somewhere. Far more difficult, but infinitely more rewarding, to pick a word that speaks to us deeply. Yes to a good year for us all! ~Kathy
Wow, I love how you used an acronym with meaning.
My word for this year is incremental. This is what I need to do to make changes in my health. I read the book The Economist Diet and my take away is that incremental changes in our lives are the only ones that are sustainable.
Hi CJ! Incremental is a very juicy word filled with all sorts of wonderful aspects. I can see where the focus on taking one step at a time would be a valuable benefit to everything going on in your life (and any of ours too!) Thank you for sharing it with us. ~Kathy
Flexible is a great word. Mine is Create as in create time to… create joy, create space.
Hi Janet! Ahhhh…Create is a wonderful word. And I appreciate how you’ve also attached it to the ideas of creating time, joy and space. When you think about it, create means so much more than just being creative. It is also an empowering idea that continually reminds you that, “you get to make it up!” May your word lead you to everything you intend. Thanks for sharing it with us. ~Kathy
Hi, Kathy – I agree with Still+the+Lucky+Few. You have chosen an excellent word that is already proving to have multiple benefits for you. I especially appreciate your clear and honest advice on choosing a word for the year. In response to my disastrous NY’s Resolution last year — I reflected on what I had really wanted to achieve and then boiled that thought down to its most basic core. The result? I wanted to intentionally live a healthier lifestyle. Thus, my simple word for the year is “Healthy”. And you’re right — it calls to me, and reminds me, even when I wish it wasn’t looking!
Hi Donna! As an over-planner, I’m seeing this word as something that will help me in so many ways in the future. I doubt I’ll ever stop planning, but I want to stay open, adaptable and flexible about it as well. And good for you for choosing Healthy. So many ways for that to show up in positive ways in your life. ~Kathy
This exercise really appeals to me. I like words so much so that Scrabble is one of my favorite games, as well as Upwords & Scattergories. I like reading & writing. I endeavor to live a purposeful, value driven life which is what you said about choosing a word that relates to goals and intentions. The word for 2017 was LISTEN. It gave me pause on many occasions to use my ears more than my lips. It served me well. The word for 2018 is SPACE. This can be a verb or a noun. I relish open space, natural space, breathing space, neutral space, white space. I like to space or pace my day with activity & rest; socializing & solitude; purposeful & down time. I need to give space for others’ emotions.
S- spirit
P – pace
A – active
C – cope
E – energy
Hi Mona! I LOVE your word for 2018. And I also love that you put it in an acronym! Like Leanne mentioned, SPACE is the type of word that can really help you “develop within.” Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us. ~Kathy
You’ve chosen a great word! It’s really specific, and that makes it easier to apply it. I haven’t decided on a word yet, but I have three in mind. I know I will have to be judicious about who knows it, because I have several people in my life who would just love to remind me when I’ve gone off course! I agree that choosing something to move towards, rather than move away from, gives your entire life a positive spin!
Hi Diane. Thank you. I think it was time for me to use this word because it’s been in the back of my mind for quite a while. I think it is so easy for us to get more stuck in our ways and inflexible as we age if we don’t resist the urge, don’t you? I’m optimistic that this will help me in the days ahead. Come back and let us know if you do choose a word. I think there is power in putting it out for others to see. ~Kathy
Hi Kathy – I’ve picked a word for the year every January since 2015. I find it a really helpful exercise in setting my intention for the year and it reminds me to stick to the intention behind it. This year’s word is RISE – I had a few issues in 2017 that I want to put behind me and I felt like I needed to rise up and reclaim my life this year (my post is here if you’re interested: http://www.crestingthehill.com.au/2018/01/my-word-for-2018-rise.html )
I love your word – it has a lot of leeway in it for you to develop within.
Hi Leanne! Rise is an excellent word. And I just popped over to your blog to read “why” you picked it and it truly sounds like the perfect word for you. And isn’t is all about finding something we can “develop within” with? Thanks for your thoughts. ~Kathy
I have a phrase rather than a word: Live in the Moment. The past is over and the future has not yet arrived. Don’t waste precious energy “worrying” about the past or future. Live in the moment!
Hi Judy! Thanks for sharing your word with all of us. And because I’m “flexible!” it doesn’t matter to me whether your word is a phrase or just one 🙂 I am a big fan of doing what works for us. And because we are all different, we need to find our own path wouldn’t you say? And you are so correct that living in the moment would benefit us all. ~Kathy