Word of the Year: 2019-2020

In 2019 I picked a word to guide my thoughts, actions, and goals for the year. It was posted in a place where I would see it regularly and be reminded of that overarching umbrella concept. “Fulfilled” is what I wanted my 2019 to look like and as I close out the year, I can say with confidence that I led a very fulfilling year.

What did that look like?

It wasn’t sunshine and rainbows every second of every day. That’s not realistic. But both the ups and the downs were a part of the journey toward leading a life that brings me fulfillment. The ups could be celebrated, and the downs taught me more about myself and where I can grow.

I also want to point out that coaches are people, too. We use our coaching tools on ourselves to find areas where we need to grow and to further search for awareness of our thoughts and feelings. I’ve challenged my fears of being vulnerable and I have shared my challenges and obstacles with you so that you will know you are not alone. I’ve worked with a few clients this year who have had breakthroughs when I share with them that I struggle with the very same challenges they face. Knowing we are not the only ones struggling with perfectionism or procrastination or self-doubt gives us courage and power to overcome those obstacles. It’s fulfilling to be a part of that empowerment process.

I set goals for myself this year that would take me toward fulfilling my life’s mission and vision that I’ve created. I didn’t accomplish every single goal I set, but I worked at them and continued to improve and move toward those end results. That feels good. I feel fulfilled in the process of moving my little game piece forward a few more steps….although that’s the board game metaphor. Maybe in this new year I should say that I’ve moved my avatar forward a couple of levels in the video game. Ha!

I dedicated each Friday as “Farm Friday” and spent time on the family ranch growing food, nourishing the soil, and walking in the footsteps of my ancestors. This was very fulfilling as I broke away from the daily grind and hustle to nourish my soul, body, and mind in the garden.

I joined two additional non-profit boards whose missions aligned with my current and past goals. I have greatly enjoyed volunteering my time and talents to help these three organizations move forward: Society for Marketing Professional Services, Texas Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (joined in June), and the USGBC Central Texas Regional Council (joined in October).

Where does my fulfillment take me in 2020?

I’ve decided that my word for 2020 will be Awareness (defined by Google as “knowledge or perception of a situation or fact). I want to take these steps of fulfillment made in 2019 and start focusing even deeper on what makes me tick and how I can further create the life of which I’ve dreamed. Awareness will be the “umbrella” under which my work falls for 2020.

I want to open up my mind to more awareness so that I can really challenge those thoughts that hold me back and either replace them with other thoughts or understand better how the existing thoughts work in my life. I’ve written about it, other coaches have written about it, but it’s still true: Our thoughts are just our interpretations of neutral circumstances.

I want to further challenge my prefrontal brain’s ability to see circumstances as being truly neutral and not allow my primitive brain to run havoc with old thought patterns and ruts that don’t serve me or help me serve others.

In 2020, I will put more emphasis on and dedicate more time to daily working on myself so that I can better serve others. I still have some time to figure those details out but right now I think I’ll be getting up earlier in the mornings to spend 30-60 minutes on my self-coaching via podcasts, journaling, and prayer & meditation.

Just as in 2019, I will post this word in a place where I’ll see it every day and be reminded that in all things I can increase my awareness of myself and my surroundings.

Do you have a word of the year?

2019 was the first year I had a Word but I really enjoyed it. If you’re not into setting resolutions, maybe a Word can be something to guide you in the growth or sustaining areas you have for yourself. For example, maybe your “goal” for 2020 is just to continue to make healthy choices. Maybe “Health” can be your word.

Feel free to share your Word in the comments and let’s all make this new year a great one.

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