Now, just choose a single word.

How many resolutions did you make last year? How long did you stick with them? They don’t last long, do they? Maybe a month or so? And were they focused on the negative things to change – like finally losing 10 pounds, get to the gym more often?

I changed all that last year. Now I just choose a single word that drives me through the year. Let me tell you, it sounds easier than it is to pick the right word.

Last New Year’s Day we were visiting with friend when I started asking everyone about their resolutions. She told me about just picking a word for the year. I thought that sounded pretty good, an easy way out. Turns out it’s not so easy to pick one word that truly fits your intentions but once you do, it’s an incredible way to focus your year.

Here was my thought process to get to the most authentic word just for me. First I thought about what was coming up for the year – what did I know was happening or was hoping would happen. Lots of positive things were in the works – I was launching my coaching business, my boyfriend was about to land a new job, and that meant we would be able to move in together. But there was a big looming negative. I was turning 60. And I was already whining about it – listening to all those external voices about age. And I hate whining.

So I started listing words. Not just any word would do. I wanted a verb because that meant action and focused on the end result not just the process. An adjective would work too. A word that would drive and guide me through the year. Something positive that could be an attitude changer.

I tried on a few, sat with them for a couple of days to see how they might keep me clearly focused for the year. None fit until I hit upon Celebrate! with an exclamation point. It felt right and it certainly has been a year to celebrate. And as for that birthday, instead of crawling under a rock, we celebrated with 2 parties!

Now I’m working on the right word for 2011. And my friend, she’s taking on my 2010 word.

Action:

• Think through your expectations and events you know will be happening for the year. Write them out.
• How do you feel about them now? How would you like to feel about them?
• Write out a list of possible words – either verbs or adjectives, or if it’s better for you a very short phrase – that can help focus you on the feeling you’d like to have.
• How will this word change your life by the end of the year?  Write out how each could help you get there.

Don’t struggle or fret about it. It may take a couple of days but one will naturally emerge. It will feel right. It will be authentic to you. Now put it up everywhere, surround yourself – on your mirror, refrigerator, your office white board, your notepaper – just keep it in view. You want to be drawn to the energy our word will create. Make it come alive!

Please comment on your word and why it’s the right word for you. I’ve got my new one in mind but haven’t settled yet. I’ll share mine in a few days.