Years ago, a friend of mine told me of a new practice for New Years which I love. Instead of setting a long list of loose resolutions, focus on picking a word that you want to bring into the new year.
What does this do? For me, instead of becoming overwhelmed by the mountains of resolutions I would make or feeling aimless in what direction they would lead me, the word provided a centre - a foundation - a base.
It is a word to remind myself each day, through moments, decisions and actions. It isn’t just for the big moments, but also the small ones like giving yourself a bit more grace when you make a mistake.
What is your word for 2022?
As an example, my word in 2021 was GROWTH. That became my focus and became a key element in all my goals. I grew my business, offerings, knowledge (from dance to cooking), and learned of new places and routines. Even in mistakes or when I felt stuck, I reminded myself these were places of growth. I grew.
For 2022, my word is LOVE.
Even-more, it is LOVE OVER FEAR.
This is important to note as I realise, for me, fear is never far. But that doesn’t mean it should stop me, instead, it will become my friend.
Once we can name the thing that scares us the most, we take away its power and we can start to see what is really behind it.
What is something that stops you?
One of the best ways I have learned about this is through Elizabeth (Liz) Gilbert’s book ‘Big Magic’ - definitely worth a read! In her book, she says fear isn’t allowed to drive.
She also writes a letter to fear to really understand what it means to her. The letter reads:
“Dearest Fear:
Creativity and I are about to go on a road trip together. I understand you’ll be joining us, because you always do. I do acknowledge that you believe you have an important job to do in my life, and that you take your job seriously. Apparently your job is to induce complete panic whenever I’m about to do anything interesting – and, may I say, you are superb at your job. So by all means, keep doing your job, if you feel you must. But I will also be doing my job on this road trip, which is to work hard and stay focused. And Creativity will be doing its job, which is to remain stimulating and inspiring. There’s plenty of room in this vehicle for all of us, so make yourself at home, but understand this: Creativity and I are the only ones who will be making any decisions along the way. I recognize and respect that you are part of this family, and I will never exclude you from our activities, but still – your suggestions will never be followed. You’re allowed to have a seat, and you’re allowed to have a voice, but you are not allowed to have a vote. You’re not allowed to touch the road maps; you’re not allowed to suggest detours; you’re not allowed to fiddle with the temperature. Dude, you’re not even allowed to touch the radio. But above all else, my dear old familiar friend, you are absolutely forbidden to drive.”
Fear can be here, it can be heard, but it doesn’t get to navigate. Instead love will be the guide to create magical moments, challenges and experiences.
What do you want to bring into 2022?
What is this in a word?
What stops you?
Write this down and place it somewhere you will remember.
I make posters of mine which I hang up for me to see each day.
I would love to hear your word click here to share it with me!
If you need some help to figure out what your word might be or you are interested in a poster showcasing your 2022 word, just let me know by clicking here!
I will leave you with a last tip, one suggested by Liz Gilbert herself - write a letter to that which stops you (or if you are unsure, fear). Instead of running from it or trying to hide from it, address it and make it your friend.
