Greetings friends! As we embark on this journey through the back half of the year, let’s take a moment to reflect on the profound impact that words can have on our lives. As Yehuda Berg beautifully stated, “Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble.” This sentiment echoes throughout history, as Abraham Joshua Herschel adds, “Speech has power. Words do not fade. What starts as a sound, ends in a deed.”
Let’s delve into the incredible influence that a single word can wield in shaping our thoughts, decisions, and actions. Just as a rudder steers a ship through uncharted waters, our chosen word can act as our guiding star, providing us with direction and purpose.
The Magic of One Word
Incorporating a single word into our lives is a practice that extends beyond personal resolutions. Many organizations have adopted this approach as part of their annual business planning. Words such as “growth,” “act now,” and “drive” become more than just mere terms – they become rallying points, unifying teams around a shared vision.
Through aligning language, these organizations discover that the challenge of fostering cohesion and clarity is greatly diminished. With a single word to spearhead initiatives, track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and shape strategies, a renewed sense of focus takes root. Furthermore, the added perk of creating memorable swag helps spread the message even further!
If you’re intrigued by the concept of adopting a single word as your guiding principle, many resources are available. One such resource is author Jon Gordon, co-author of the book “One Word That Will Change Your Life.” Their three-step process encourages you to prepare your heart, discover your word, and most importantly, live your word.
Beyond Resolutions: The Power of One Word
Contrasting the often one-dimensional nature of New Year’s resolutions, the concept of a single word boasts a holistic impact on our lives. Imagine, for instance, resolving to “eat cleaner.” While this may lead to healthier habits, it also ripples into other dimensions of our lives, such as improved sleep, increased energy, and better financial management.
This is where the strength of one word truly shines. By selecting a single word, we unlock its potential to affect every facet of our existence. The word serves as a lighthouse, guiding us through the complexities of life with a unified purpose.
The Journey of Living Your Word
As I contemplated my word for this year, I took a slightly different approach – I chose an adjective: “Worthy.” In its essence, being worthy means possessing qualities or abilities deserving of recognition. This becomes my guiding principle, directing my words, actions, decisions, and behaviors. Each one should merit recognition, evoking gratitude, acknowledgment, and appreciation.
This realization brings to light the dual nature of our choices. Our words and actions possess the power to either add or detract value. With “worthy” as my north star, I consciously choose to add value, thus aligning my choices with my desired direction.
Applying the Filter: The Magic Question
The beauty of embracing a single word as your compass is that it provides a powerful filter for decision-making. Each choice can be evaluated through the lens of your chosen word. Is this presentation worthy of my audience? Does this email merit the recipients’ attention? Is this workout deserving of my training plan? Is this meal worthy of my family?
This simple litmus test guides us toward our chosen path. If the answer is affirmative, we are aligned with our north star. If not, it serves as a reminder that there is work to be done.
Shared Words, Shared Journeys
The practice of adopting a word for the year is not limited to individuals. Even families can partake in this transformative journey. My family, for instance, each selected a word to guide them through the year ahead.
My daughter, grappling with anxiety, chose “certainty.” This choice reflects her desire to combat the unease that stems from the unknown. By seeking more certainty, she hopes to alleviate her anxiety.
My husband’s word choice, “forward,” encapsulates the essence of progress. To stagnate is to regress, a notion he aims to avoid. And even in retirement, my mother has chosen the word “ambitious” as a testament to her commitment to initiative and growth.
Embrace the Challenge
For those who shy away from traditional resolutions, I encourage you to embrace the challenge of a single word. And if resolutions are already a part of your yearly routine, consider enhancing them with the addition of a guiding word. Together, let’s make this year the best one yet.
Words that Shape the World
In closing, let’s heed the wisdom of John Keating: “No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world.” As Markus Zusak adds, the true power of words is realized by those who understand their potential – those who can climb to the highest peaks of influence.
Thank you for investing your time in today’s exploration. I leave you with a cherished quote from John Quincy Adams: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.”
Feel free to explore more content on Working Moms on the Run, and remember that every word you choose is a step towards shaping your future.
Here’s to embracing the power of words and embarking on a journey of self-discovery and evolution.