If you have been following Cumming Local for any amount of time, then you already know this – I am a goal setter. I love setting goals. In fact, I look forward to it every year. But I am fully aware that not everyone loves to set goals. For those of you who don’t like to set goals, I have an idea for you!
Pick ONE word and then focus on it all year round.
This is something we have done as a family for the last 4 years. It’s really helpful for kids too. Choosing one word is simple for kids and adults. We like to decorate a little canvas with our one word and then those hang in our kitchen above our weekly schedule. We will talk about the words all the time! It’s become part of our family so much that even the kids will say “mommy, remember your word…” We all keep each other accountable.
Please note: This is not an original idea. In fact, I heard about from one of my favorite speakers and authors. You can learn more about Jon Gordon, by following this link.
With that being said, I have a few tips that I would love to share with you.
#1 – Ask
If you don’t know what word to choose, ask those closest to you. They will know a word you can focus on. {Quick Tip: Ask someone who will be open and authentic with you!} The people closest in our lives have a unique perspective.
#2 – Create A Visual Aid
Like I said before, we decorate canvases and then hand them up in our kitchen. They are referred to often in our home. In year’s past, I have had a bracelet or necklace made with my one word on. I’ve also taped a card with a quote or Bible verse on my desk to remind me daily. The visual aid helps for the word/your focus to always be around you.
#3 – Check-In
Checking-in to see where you are is an important tool in your personal development. Set a reminder on your calendar to check your progress on your one word. Ask your family and/or friends how they think you have been. We do this every Sunday during dinner. You don’t have to do this weekly. That is just what works for us.
And that’s it. It’s still the start of the new year and you have time. I encourage you to pick a word and focus on it all year long. Here are some examples of words you can choose:
Possibility, Write, Perspective, Imagine, Freedom, Stewardship, Connect, Learn, Joy, Reflection, Battle, Transition, Soar, Generous, Invest, Trust, Enjoy, Persistence, Curious, Believe, Pause, Determined, Reduce, Listen, Unstoppable, Awake, Brave, Diligence, Shine, Resolve, Forward, More, Different, Ambition, Faith, Rebuilding, Health, Be, Focus, Direction, Courage, Today, No, Risk, Confidence, Uplift, Optimism, Live, Finish, Embrace, Peace, Integrity, Purpose, Ignite, Thrive, Fortitude, Appreciate, Celebrate, Discover, Balance, Create, Growth, Choose, Relax, Simplify, Progress, Revel, Organize, Breathe, Truth, Action, Grace, Minimize, Release, Mindfulness, Empower, New, Open, Slow, Present, Adapt, Momentum, Love, Together, Opportunity, Adventure, Change, Strength, Selah, Relentless, Silence, Push, Sacrifice, Dare, Commit, Transformation
Happy New Year! If you do end up picking a word, please comment and let me know what it is!
Rachael Walkup has lived in North Georgia all her life. Since 2006 – The Walkup family has made Forsyth County their home. Along with being a wife and mom, Rachael is an avid blogger, social media expert, and owner of CummingLocal.com. Her time is spent promoting local events and small businesses in North Georgia. With a background in Marketing and Sales, coupled with her experience in Project Development and Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Rachael offers consultations and classes to help clients reach their fullest potential.
