No resolutions, just a word
Well, actually, two words for 2025
Years ago, I ran across an article about choosing a word to define the year, rather than coming up with resolutions. I’ve chosen a word for many years now, have shared the idea with others, and even co-hosted a happy hour with the theme – “what’s the word?”
One year I shared my word for the upcoming year in my Christmas letter to family and friends, and asked recipients to share their words back to me. My favorite, and the one I think of often, was from my mother’s cousin Harriet, who was in her 90’s at the time. She sent a card back saying her word was “fun.”
Sure, I try to ponder, reflect, be mindful, and she knocks it out of the park! And I’m guessing there wasn’t a ton of thought, either. I think of Harriet, who passed in 2021 at 100, every year as I begin the process of finding the right word. Don’t get bogged down, just let it come to you!
So, as often happens, my word, or phrase as it will be for this year, popped into my head on Wednesday, and it is the focus I want for the coming year. I texted it to Karen, as per usual, which makes it official. My words for 2025 will be Comfort & Joy.
Since 2024 was my first full year with RedTail as my only work, there were many new adventures. I joined three organizations, the Minneapolis chamber, NAWBO-MN, and MCDA. I tried to get involved with all three (harkening back to my BD training days-you can’t just join, you have to get involved!!), and was successful with two.
I’ve met some terrific people in these groups and look to this next year for getting more comfortable with the new relationships I’ve made and the roles I’ve taken on. I’ve also become more aware of what I want to focus on with my trainings, and will look for a comfortable and also enjoyable space to be in.
And yes, of course, the sheer joy of not only meeting our newest family member, but looking with anticipation to spending time with grandbaby Graham. That brings me joy just thinking about it!
Please let me know if you also follow this practice and what your word will be for this year. Just the word, no need for explanation (unless you’d like to!). I love hearing what others choose, and thinking how that word will manifest as the year goes along.
Here’s to comfort and joy in 2025!