One Word

Some people set an intention for the new year. It’s a way to help you come back to what you want, kind of like a rudder on a boat keeping you on course. Last year a friend introduced me to the book “One Word” by Gordon, Britton and Page. Instead of setting an intention you come up with a word to live by for the entire year. My word for 2019 was “integrity”.

It’s not that I had a problem with lying or morality, but I wasn’t always honest with myself. In the past I have shape shifted a bit to avoid conflict or to fit in. Being in integrity doesn’t allow for that. 2019 was a time for me to show up more as the real me.

I had to ask myself if decisions, thoughts, actions, etc. were in integrity with what I want, need, or how I want to live my life. Certain situations required me to dig deep for the courage to do that. 

Was it perfect? Nope! And that’s kind of the point. 

When I try to look, act, or be perfect that’s not integrity; that’s me projecting who I think I should be. Instead I came back to just being authentically me. 

What do you think about declaring something for yourself? It was really helpful for me to have a simple word as a barometer.

There is more detail in the book, but for now I’ll share that the authors suggest you create some quiet space for yourself and ask…

What do I need?

What’s in my way?

What needs to go?

Then you listen for what comes to you. The word may not be obvious right away and that’s ok. The authors suggest you can ask god (source, divine, the universe whatever you call it) to reveal the word to you. Just be open.

So what do you think? Are you willing to try out a word for 2020? Hit reply and let me know. Also I’d love to hear what word is yours for the next year.