I’ve been selecting a “word of the year” for quite a few years now. I enjoy the process of evaluating my life and choosing a word to focus on in the coming year. Simpler than goals and more apt to “stick” than resolutions, a “word of the year” brings a bit of focus to the coming months. A well-chosen word can give life clarity and help you stay motivated.
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My Word of the Year
2022
I began pondering my word choice several weeks ago and almost immediately I knew what it would be. The past two years have kept me pretty isolated in my efforts to avoid Covid. As an introvert I know this isn’t as hard for me as it is for my extroverted husband. Still, I am feeling a longing for people. Well, some people, that is.
I’m okay with avoiding crowds forever but I do miss going out to lunch with a friend. I miss going out for a drink with David and meeting up with some friends. I miss monthly shopping trips to the city with my daughter. I miss travel.
I know these things will return at some point and I know I will never take them for granted ever again. And that is why my chosen word for 2022 is…
While I hope life will become more normal in 2022, I thought that about 2021 so I’m not pinning my hopes on it just yet. However, there is much I can do in the meantime to connect with people who are important to me.
- Write letters – actual snail mail!
- Text or message more often
- Actually CALL people
- Set up Zoom parties with friends
- At-home date nights with David
- Weekly movie nights with Chris
- Connect with YOU, my readers
- Put more focus on my spirituality
- Connect with my past by sorting photos, memorabilia
- Connect with my deepest desires
I know that list isn’t terribly specific but it’s a starting place. I’m sure I’ll discover more ways to connect as one thing often leads to another.
Symbol of the Year
I’ve chosen a word for a number of years but something new for me this year is the choice of a symbol. I didn’t set out to do this but for some reason, butterflies keep showing up. I don’t know the significance yet but it was happening too often to ignore. A couple of months ago I bought this print which is hanging in my office:
I’m now on the lookout for a butterfly necklace. Here are a couple of possibilities:
Do you choose a word of the year? If so, I’d love to hear what you’ve chosen for 2022.
Have You Chosen Your Word for the Year? Here’s Why You Should.
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Why I’m Not Making New Year’s Resolutions for 2021
Oh I LOVE it! I had my doubts before you explained and added your list. ? Yes, 2021’s lack of normality led me to doubt for a sec.
I think you know by now I will help you connect with me. ?
I haven’t told you yet, but my new planner is modeled after yours and I’m loving it!
I look forward to continued connection with you in 2022. 🙂 I’m so happy to hear your new planner is working well for you.
That’s an excellent word choice. Good luck.
I usually set goals, but I’m not really doing that this year. I’ve been toying with the idea of a word for the year instead, but haven’t really settled on one.
I look forward to hearing what you choose, if you do.