My One Little Word
It’s a funny thing. Life, that is. Every day we go about our routines not paying much attention to anything. And then one day, something changes. And suddenly you find yourself paying attention to everything.
That’s happened to me a few times over the last few years.
I’ve taken advantage of those moments, but not as much as I should. Whether it’s flipping the calendar to a new year, relocating to a new city, or a change in employment, there is always something MORE to see. MORE to pay attention to.
Back in December, I got wind of the One Little Word course that Ali Edwards runs every year. It’s designed to make you think about a single word that sums up what you want for yourself for the year ahead.
I want to be present.
It hit me a few weeks ago, and I briefly wrote about it then. I’ve been practicing this for 26 days, and it feels wonderful. The guilt that I mentioned feeling in my 31 days post is subsiding. Being present is one of my 26 Acts of Kindness. {and I know these gestures should be random acts of kindness toward others, but if I’m more present in my own life – I’ll be happier, friendly, and kinder. I’ll be nicer and have more to give others.}
This blog is an extension of me – and of my life. In order for me to be present in my life, a few things will be changing here too. I’m working on a few new series that I hope you’ll enjoy, and the giveaways won’t be coming as often – I sure hope that doesn’t mean you’ll be leaving! There will be more meaningful content inspired by my daily routine, by writing prompts, craftiness and current events. I’m going to be sharing more photographs – which I love. This year, my “big girl” camera is going to get a work out!
What is your one little word?
I need to think about this a little. Present is a good one. I’ve seen others say Intentional. I’m thinking it will have something to do with patience, being Wife and Mommy to the best of my ability, and serving God.
I am so excited about my word – and about being present. I’ve been more focused on it this year, and it’s already making a difference in just a few short weeks. Can’t wait to see what the remainder of the year holds!
‘Present” is a great word. It covers so much too! If I’m more present I’m probably being more intentional and organized, a better wife and mother (more in tune with emotional needs and with who these people I spend all my days with are).
I agree, Viv! And that’s what I’m going for. As I focus on being present, I feel like I’m more organized, a better person, and more enjoyable to be around. My mind isn’t always wondering what’s going on in other places.
What’s your one little word for 2013?
Available is my word. To my husband, to my kids, to my family, to my friends, to those in need. When one of my kids asks me to read to them, I stop what I’m doing and read. If a friend invites me out, I go. I have been inviting friends over more and saying yes more
Very nice! I hope 2013 is a great year for you!
I like the word “present”. There is so much I want to do, need to do, should do, others expect me to do…maybe Do should be mine, but that’s a stressful one.
I picked Be as my word before, and think I’ll stick with it. I need to “be” what makes me my best for those that are important to me
That’s great, Laura! Good luck with your one little word in 2013!
I definitely need to try to be more present. It is so easy to get distracted by things that we need to do and forget what we are doing right now.
Dawn
I’ve really been focusing on this – and feel like it’s making a difference. Have you chosen one little word for this year?
This is a great word to focus on. Sometimes I feel like I’m a little too connected to the internet and all things technology. Sure, I’m physically present when I’m out with my kids, but am I really “there” or am I on my phone, checking email, or updating social media? I think we should all try to be a little more present in 2013.
I’ve noticed a big change in just the first month of the year. I still crave the internet, but I’m really enjoying my life more. I’m feeling more creative and inspired, too.
Have a great day!
This is a great post!
As for my 1 little word I think it would be “aware” to often things are going on around me and I seem to be so unaware of them so for now on I”m going to work on being aware of things 🙂
I can’t wait to see your upcoming post.
AWARE! That’s a great word. It’s so important to be aware of what’s happening around us. Can’t wait to see how 2013 goes for you, will you be writing about your own little word?
I think I will :).
Nope- Im stealing your word. You made soo many great points- you inspired me 🙂
Thanks, Melissa! I’ll be interested to see how you do now that you’re focusing on being present!!
Have a great year:)
That’s a good one. My word for the year is STRONG! I have a lot I want to accomplish this year. It’s going to require late nights, lots of energy, and even some pain so I will have to remember to be strong.
Love the title of your blog! I look forward to nap time everyday!
Thank you! Best of luck as you focus on being STRONG this year!
That is definitely a great choice for your one word. Life is so short and moments slip by before we know it. (ps thanks for linking up at Motivating Monday this week on Ceo of Me!)
Thanks! It came to me fairly quickly, and as I’ve been focusing on it more, I’ve really been enjoying life more, too! (Except for today while I was at the grocery store…but that’s a topic for another day!)
Thanks for stopping by!
I am taking her class, and my word this year is reach!
Oooohhh, that’s a fabulous word! I was thinking about taking her class, but have yet to sign up. Do you think I’ve missed to much to sign up now?
No I don’t think so. Most of it is prompts to get you thinking about your word that you can read and reread as often as you feel is necessary. Go ahead and sign up. You won’t regret it, at least I don’t.
Thanks, Jennifer. I think I will sign up.
See you in class!
I FINALLY signed up today! Haven’t had a chance to look at it yet, but am thrilled to have signed up!
Gosh how inspiring. I think I want to jump on board. This week I am going to reflect and come up with my word for 2013. I needed to see this today.
Thank you, Bonnie! I am so happy to have inspired you!