New Years Resolutions, A Simple Alternative

A few years ago, I gave up setting New Year's Resolutions & goals.  There was no big reason other than I often felt like they limited me to one area of my life. I truly love a fresh start and consider there to be many times throughout the year for fresh starts {summer, school year, spring} and new goals. However there is none as sweet , for me at least, as the turning of the calendar page to a new year. 

Like many people, instead of a resolution I now choose a word to focus on throughout the year. I have found that this doesn't limit me to one area. Instead, it allows me to carry my focus and intention into many different areas of my life allowing for sustainable growth. 

 I really feel like the word of the year is especially helpful for teens and young adults. Teens and young adults who struggle with executive functioning skills {think school and life skills} are already overwhelmed and setting BIG NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS just adds to the overwhelm. Often, it spirals them deeper into the hole they're already in when they fall short, often very quickly, of their resolution. One word allows for clarity and focus which is often key for those who have trouble with goal setting and achievement. 


So, how does this work? 


It's simple really. Think about where you want to be and what you want to be in a year. Do you want to be more Disciplined? Organized? Confident? Wealthier? Take some time and jot down some words. You will know when you've found THE ONE.  My words in years past have been growth, health and present.   This year my word is:

Now before anyone, particularly friends and family, thinks that I'm confronting something terrible,  I am not. I simply am tired of letting fear and uncertainty keep me from playing BIG both personally and professionally. You know, those nagging "what ifs..." that plague many of us perfectionist and highly sensitive people. I'm tired of going just to the edge of my comfort zone. It's time for me to be courageous in confronting fear and uncertainty.

I'm pleased to say that it's become a family affair this year as my teens have both chosen their words as well. My 14 year old daughter has chosen, organized and my 19 year old son has chosen, consistency. It absolutely amazed me when I asked them if they'd like to join me this year, explained the concept and within seconds they had their words. You see, choosing a word to focus on for the year brings immediate clarity and focus to what you want and where you want to be. 

So, will you join me in choosing a word for 2015? I hope so! Please comment here, Tweet me, Instagram me or post on Facebook. 

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going courageously into 2015...