An amazing and dear friend of mine named Jill has a tradition of choosing a word at the beginning of each new year. We have shared our words for the year with one another for about 16 years now. The words we choose give us focus for our thoughts and actions…they are reminders about what is important to us – our Care (touched on in the last blog on Blessing an Idea). And “Where Attention goes, Energy flows; Where Intention goes Energy flows!” – James Redfield (https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/816367-where-attention-goes-energy-flows-where-intention-goes-energy-flows ). Whatever we direct our attention to grows stronger. So, it makes sense for us to choose wisely!

Jill and I started with the word Balance a
number of years ago when we were both seeking a better work-life integration.
And, we have had a good number of words and foci between the two of us over the
years: Simplicity, Fun, Creativity, Intention, Mindful, Spacious,
Perspective, and more. The words have created a sort of learning lab for
us… and provided each of us a reference and a guidepost for the year. When we
share our words with each other, we add an accountability piece. By going
“public” – even if on a small level – we make it more likely that we will move
with intention in the direction of the words we have each chosen. Pretty cool,
right?

Our language and labels affect our thoughts and
perspectives, and ultimately our behaviors. What are the words you use when you
label or evaluate things and other people? What do those words create for you
as well as others? Do they separate and distance us from each other and
parts of our lives, or do they energize, expand, and connect? 

Your beliefs become your thoughts, 
Your thoughts become your words, 
Your words become your actions, 
Your actions become your habits, 
Your habits become your values, 
Your values become your destiny.
~ Mahatma Gandhi ~

This sequence can work in both directions…We can deliberately choose positive, uplifting, and liberating beliefs that will influence our thoughts, words, and actions. And working backwards from a destiny we choose allows us to discern what thoughts and actions will lead us in that direction. So why not exercise choice where we can?

The secret of change is to focus all of your energy,
not on fighting the old, but on building the new.
~ Socrates ~

 Jill’s word for 2020 is Harmony and mine is Whole-Hearted
(with a nod to Brené Brown, Daring Greatly). What word – one that represents an idea, a
principle, a way of approaching life, some aspect of what matters most to you –
will inspire and guide you through 2020? What do you want to give energy to in
the new year? Email me at tinagethner@me.com
– I’d love to know what is inspiring you and what your focus is for 2020!!

Thanks to Jill for co-creating this blog, and to Lisa for inviting me to be part of Entertaining an Idea 😊