Hello and Happy 2014! I recently wrote a reflection on what an amazing year 2013 was for me, and while my running future is uncertain at the moment (about 12 hours away from seeing the doc!), I have some big picture plans for life in general this year. I’m excited to share them with you over the next few days.
First, my word of the year. I’ve never thought this concept through before, but when I was asked to reflect on 2013 and describe it with one word, I selected “fearless.” I worked incredibly hard to set aside my fear of the unknown in 2013 and doing so brought great rewards. So, what is this year’s word? 2014’s word is “explore.” I’m ready to see more of this world, to see more of my great city and to look more closely at myself. I’m prepared to question more-my job, my fitness goals, my plans for the future. I’m lucky to have Phil by my side-he’s the kind of partner in crime who pushes me out the door when I’m questioning whether or not I should go somewhere, who says “do whatever makes you happy.” I could announce that I’m planning to become a fry-cook on Venus and he’d be tying the apron around my waist on my way out. My word is also a subtle nod to the final Calvin & Hobbes strip. It’s never felt more relevant than now, as I write from a snowy, winter wonderland.
I shared my word with my family tonight, and asked each of them to try to come up with their own words as well. The growing joy of having tweens (not my favorite word, but not sure what else to call them) is the ability to have these kinds of conversations. Hannah (11) settled on “achieve.” How can you not love that? She’s competing in her district spelling bee later this month and I can’t wait to see her stand on the stage, living that word out. Brody (9) chose “water.” When asked why, he mentioned his return to swimming lessons, his love of the Lake Erie beaches and our upcoming trip to an indoor water park. Brody has the personality of a 92-year-old Irishman, stubborn and independent. I suggested the word “fluid,” and we discussed the implications that word might have on his personality (with plenty of winks across the table between me and Phil). Best part of our talk? Brody asked if he could go write his word down, so he could remember it and look at it each day.
Have you chosen a word to set the tone for your 2014? I’d love to hear about it.
Racing To Zen 