Picking a word for the year isn’t something I always do. Or I remember and then promptly forget a month later. At the start of this year, I created a list of ideas. It may have been overly ambitious to attempt everything in one go, but I was sure I could handle it all simultaneously. My goals include better nutrition, increased water intake, exercise, meditation, writing, restarting my reselling business, and school. I’d hardly made any progress before falling ill on three separate occasions.
Before falling ill with strep throat, COVID-19, and the flu in January, I knew my word of the year would be “focus.” I chose this word because I’m turning 38 tomorrow, and as I approach 40, I feel like life is passing by quickly. Comparing myself to others my age, I often feel behind because they have children while I don’t. Starting a family seems appealing, but with my minimum-wage job, I know it won’t lead to much success in today’s world. I had hoped that by now, or at least by the time I turn 40, I would have a better job and a child and be on a path toward success. However, sometimes that feels so far away. I understand that some people don’t achieve their goals until they reach their 50s or 60s, as I’ve seen on Facebook posts that it is never too late. I chose “focus” as my word of the year. I’m tired of letting opportunities slip away. I want to make this year count.
I chose “Focus” as my word of the year. It’s not just a resolution, but a commitment to being intentional. I want to prioritize my time, energy, and attention. Embracing focus will transform various areas of my life.
- Increased productivity and Efficiency: By Eliminating distractions and honing in on what truly matters, I hope to accomplish more in half the time.
- Deeper connections in my relationships: I hope to focus on active listening and meaningful conversation to strengthen my relationships with family, friends, and coworkers.
- Mental Clarity and Reduced Stress: By cultivating focus, I hope to reduce mental clutter, improve decision-making, and feel more in control of my day-to-day life. This will hopefully help me to approach challenges with a clearer perspective and less anxiety.
- Greater Progress Towards my goals: With Focus, I hope to improve my efforts consistently. I want to stay committed to my goals long-term.
- A Stronger Sense of Fulfillment: I want to feel like I spent all my time and energy wisely. I hope to create a more intentional, fulfilling, and purpose-driven life by prioritizing what truly matters and cutting out what doesn’t.
I aim to make focus a habit, not just my word or theme for the year. By Staying committed, I believe this mindset will lead to lasting, positive changes in all aspects of my life.
Ways I’m cultivating focus this year
- Setting Clear Priorities and goals and identifying what truly matters
- Minimizing digital distractions and organizing my workspace
- Doing my Morning Pages, Journaling, and Meditation.
- Developing better habits by establishing a morning routine again.
Final Thoughts
My hopes for the year ahead are still to work on my writing and thrifting business and care for myself physically, mentally, and emotionally. And establish routines that will set me up for success. But, take it one step at a time instead of burning myself out trying to do everything at once.
Did you choose a word of the year? What does your word mean to you, and how do you plan to incorporate that word into your goals for the year?
