Chances are, you might have ever so slightly slid or even slam dunk fallen off your recently created, best intended, New Year’s resolution. Don’t worry; I’m not beating on you for it. As a matter of fact, according to U.S News & World Report, you’re in the boat with lots of others. The failure rate is 80%, and most lose their resolve by mid-February, which is exactly why I’ve got a solution to your broken resolution.
Several years ago, I resolved to end this ridiculous idea. Why would I set myself up knowing that the odds are massively against me?
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I replaced it with a new practice called “Word Of The Year” or “WOTY”. It’s a kinder, gentler, and I would argue, a more powerful change agent that keeps you going throughout the year — making remarkable changes in your growth and attitude.
What’s in a word?
Your word represents an idea/ feeling that you continually rise up to. Your word is kept top and center of all your actions and decisions throughout the year.
What’s cool is that your word adjusts to each particular situation and different circumstance that comes along in your life.
Why I chose my WOTY
Truth be told, my word this year was exactly that. TRUTH. It’s the word that kept coming to me and so I decided it would be given the place of honor for 2021. Once you see how my word will fit into my life, you’ll see how yours will fit into yours.
My WOTY reminds me that my focus and my goals all lead with truth. It means that I will choose truth, being always mindful that I speak my truth. That I know the ultimate truth, which enables me to further my relationship with God. That I will seek the truth and not be blindly led by news or gossip. That I will allow others to experience their truth without judging them or trying to talk them into mine.
Wow, right? I know it’s so expansive! My one word has deeper legs than any resolution I could have made. It’s easier to navigate and keep working with. It’s fun as I can watch myself learn and grow from it and apply it directly to each life scenario I encounter.
How to choose your WOTY
So here’s what you do.
First, reflect on it –
You can do this by visualizing what your perfect day feels like. What is your morning routine, how do you feel while you are working, how do you feel throughout the day? Think of the feeling (what you would want your perfect day to feel like) and look at words that match your feeling. Make a list of the words that speak to you. For example, you can make a list like this:
Action, balance, integrity, health, simplicity, peace, creativity, grace, patience, joy, fun, focus, growth … you get the idea. Use your feelings and look up words that represent them. Words you can aspire to and have fun with. Circle 2-3 words that jump out to you.
Second, meditate on it —
Place yourself in a relaxed state. Set the scene with soft music, candlelight. Close your eyes and let your intuition flow. Let it do the work. Which word will be yours for this year? Ask yourself what feels right, exciting, and even a little scary? (And don’t worry; you can pick 2 if you’re really fond of them). This is a great way to practice your intuitive guidance – so allow it to lead the way.
Why it works
It works because it’s simple. It’s doable and it’s actionable. It’s fun and easy to keep your word with you.
Here are 4 fun and effective ways to keep your word:
1) Post it – You can write it on a post-it note and stick it on your refrigerator, bathroom mirror, and computer.
2) Book Mark it – This is my favorite thing to do. I cut a piece of pretty paper to bookmark size, write my word, decorate with images, and laminate it. You can do this at staples or you can purchase your own laminator. Big tip: I bought a laminator years ago for this very project. You can turn this WOTY idea into an annual family New Year event.
3) Frame it – My daughter does this every year. She writes her word, and the definition along with it – so she’s super clear on her goal – puts her frame front and center in her home so she sees it every day.
4) Bead it – One year I even made a beaded bracelet with that alphabet beads you can find at the craft store. This is super fun because your arm is never far from you. If you don’t want to involve yourself in making your own, there are companies out that there will do this for you – check out ETSY.
The point is you want to make your word your point.
Your WOTY is expansive. It has the meaning you give it and can be applied to all areas of your life – remember the example I showed you with my truth.
It becomes the foundation you build upon. Unlike a resolution that is specific and sometimes narrowly focused, your word grows with you. You’ll find it less restrictive and you won’t throw in the towel. You can use your word in your daily meditation journaling or as a mantra to keep you focused.
Don’t sweat that it’s not the beginning of a new year at this moment. Now is the perfect time to begin this new practice that will take you thru the rest of this year feeling focused and good about what you’re up to.
Rosie Battista teaches Self Love You-tensils and Spiritual Essentials for remembering who you truly are- creating a life & business you love. Check out her Journal Club meeting weekly to work on your personal growth – text 908 -872-8613 for more info.