I want a Word. I really do.
It’s the beginning of the new year and I keep coming across these incredibly inspiring posts like THIS one and THIS one that include a vision for the writer’s upcoming year. A Word (or two) that they’ve chosen as their mantra for 2013.
And I don’t have my Word for 2013. Do you?
Last night we all went to see the movie, The Silver Lining Playbook (which I loved) and even Bradley Cooper’s character, who was recently released from a mental health facility had a Word.
And it was a pretty good Word too. (side note: gosh he’s cute).
But I’m having trouble deciding on my Word, because I’m not good at this.
I’m fickle, I admit it.
What if I fall in love with a Word this month but have second doubts by March? What if I’m in a different place in the summer and my Word is holding me back? Can I dump my Word without seeming shallow?
After all, my Word is no small decision. It’s like choosing the one sentence of your life. I still can’t commit to that one either, although I am getting closer.
But here’s my problem. I think one’s Word should speak to one’s deeper self. It should make you feel like you’re the only one in the room that can hear its cryptic meaning. Your Word should offer you a sweet, hopeful vision about your future. And make you feel giddy and excited just by saying its name.
Am I expecting too much from my Word?
Because I’d like to find a Word that encapsulates Colin Powell’s positive approach to life.
“Optimism isn’t a prediction, it’s an attitude.”
I really like the former U.S Secretary of State’s rationale for being an optimist, optimism is not a prediction, he says. So there’s absolutely nothing to lose if you’re positive. I like that.
It appeals to that side of my personality that loves Woody Allen’s hilarious, anxiety-ridden dialogue (hint: I “get” it).
I also want to find a sassy, confident Word
that incorporates Nora Ephron’s attitude about breaking rules and being a woman who helps other women along the way.
I’d like to find a strong, comforting Word that includes Winston Churchill’s reassurance that most of our worries NEVER happen. Because I get tired of worrying so much.
If you’re interested you can read Winston Churchill’s six tips for living a successful life HERE.
I want a wise Word that conveys these sentiments from the Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching
To attain knowledge, add things everyday.
To attain wisdom, remove things every day.
Because I like the idea of letting go of stuff and things. The emotional and physical baggage that weigh us down.
And I’d like to find a Word that overflows with Audrey Hepburn’s wisdom about beauty. Because with each tiny line I see on my face, I’m reminded that we are so much more than our bodies. And I believe that we each have so much to offer to the world, just like Audrey.
These are some of my thoughts as we begin this brand new year.
And these are my three Words.
Yes, I’ve finally decided.
Whatever lies ahead, I want to find a way to Shine. To grow. To welcome the unexpected and to practice being outrageously grateful. Everyday. I’m thinking about wonderful possibilities for 2013. And hoping for a few things that I haven’t even imagined.
And I’m wishing them for you too.
Alright 2013, I’m ready. Let’s have some joy!
Happy New Years
xoxo
Leslie
I’m linking up here, please check it out.
