Words are powerful. But what's even more powerful is when you connect words to action. As you enter into 2016, I want to welcome you to think about one or a few words you can use as empowering anchors and indicators to help you take intentional action in 2016.
Grounding myself with a word or short phrase is one of the most powerful tools I practiced last year. Instead of feeling overwhelmed with all that I could do in 2016, all that I wanted to plan, experience, create, I was able to narrow down my intention into a simple word that helped me dictate my choices. My word in 2015 was connect. Connect meant I was going to spend time connecting to myself, to my community, my clients, to Seattle and to my relationships. I used my empowering word to take action. Selecting an empowering word or words is a great way to practice self-care and prioritize what your desires and wants are--helping you stay breathing and in balance.
My words/phrase for 2016 is spread my wings and fly. This is a saying my mom used to tell me when I was younger. Wade, "I can't wait to see you spread your wings and fly." I loved how she had the vision for me when I was younger. It wasn't until a month ago that I realized I wanted this phrase to carry me into the new year. To me, spread my wings and fly means to set myself free from everything that holds me back. Whether it's thoughts of 'what if', fears or doubts, I am committing to spreading my wings and flying above it. As much as this phrase means to set myself free, it also represents serving and supporting others. I see my wings as a place of comfort, support, nourishment, love and encouragement. Sort of like Falkor, the flying dog-dragon from the The NeverEnding Story (except a human, less-hairy and cuter :)). As I spread my wings and fly, I am supporting others to take off and fly as well.
So, what's your word or words of 2016? How do you want to take empowering action this year? How do you want to stay grounded in what matters most to you? Let your empowering word help you grow, find peace, practice self-care, feel energized and fulfilled with life. Take your word or phrase and spend time journaling about it. What does it look like, smell like, taste like, sound like, and feel like? If that word was a meal, what type of meal would it be? If that word was a dance, how would it move? Get creative and explore all the various layers and possibilities that are imbedded in it. Find the power of your word and let it empower you to live more fully in 2016.
Share your word/words below!
p.s if you are in the Seattle Area, come join Centered in the City for EmpowerHour on January 6th. Our topic is about intention setting.