Happy 2017! Are you ready for an exciting, fun, and fulfilling year? I know I am. I’ve seen and read a lot about setting an intention or having a word to describe the New Year, and I have to say, I much prefer that to making a New Year’s Resolution (which I know I won’t keep). While it is great to have goals for a New Year, you don’t need to wait until January 1st — you can start them at any time and it’s okay if they change or evolve. They should!
When 2017 rolled around, I got serious thinking about what my word should be. Of course, I tried to cheat and find some random word generator (you would think Facebook has a quiz for that, since they have one for almost everything else). Then I saw that Fox News suggested “flourish” as the word for 2017. Seeking something a bit more personal, I scratched that and did some soul-searching off the Internet.
The last six months of the road leading to 2017 was rough for me. With anxiety issues, new concerns about my rising thyroid levels, long periods of waiting for testing and answers, and starting a new job — I’m pretty sure the words I would use to describe 2016 would be more like stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated, tired, and anxious. Obviously, not words I would like to see carried over into 2017.
I am aware that this year will have its challenges — but also its rewards. In deciding on a word for 2017, I wanted it to reflect my journey — where I’ve been and where I am heading.
Resilience was the first word that came to my mind, but it wasn’t until I read an email from a friend in which they mentioned how much they admired my strength that I knew it was my word for 2017. Resilience will see me through this year, will give me the courage to face anything that is in front of me, and will ensure that I do it calmly, with grace and poise. It will be what makes me get to the other side with a smile on my face and a gentle laugh, as if to say, “Is that all you’ve got?”
Yes, resilience was the word that I was looking for and an attribute that will accompany me on my journey in 2017.
What’s your word for 2017?
Perfect word to describe you. You are much stronger and talented than you realize! Enjoy who you are and your strengths. I believe you are starting to come into your own. It is your journey. Just keep going the way you are. You will be fine.
Aw! Thanks for the sweet comment, Sue!