My word for 2014 is optimism.
Officially defined as “hopefulness and confidence about the future,” I am going to define it even more generally… as in, everything will be ok. Trust that everything will be ok. Why think differently?
I will admit that I am an unrelenting, unapologetic optimist, especially when it comes to the wider world. But that doesn’t mean I am always feeling positive, especially when it comes to myself. I accomplished some big things in 2013 — I gave up coffee, completed a 101-day run streak, and ran my fastest ever marathon — measurable things that should make me feel good. And yet… I don’t think absolute/quantifiable goals are the key to my happiness and inner peace.
So… I refuse to make any resolutions for 2014. My resolution is to NOT hold myself to any absolutes. No numbers, no measuring, no specific goals. Just day-to-day optimism. Faith in myself and my ability to do what is right for me and my own happiness. That is a big step! We’ll see where it takes me…
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My past words:
2013: sweetness
2012: explore
2011: peace
2010: wonder
2009: busy
2008: hope
What is your one little word for 2014?
I like this Rachel! It seems so…. FREE! I made only 1 resolution for 2014 and I already find myself planning and scheduling to meet it (resolve to do 1 race per month – no matter the distance, so that at least I’m too hard on myself 🙂 ). I need the goals to keep me moving but I LOVE LOVE LOVE your word! I am usually pretty half empty and I love meeting the other half of the population! I struggle every day to be more optimistic so thank you for your own insights!
Not having any specific goals is definitely a new thing for me, Jen. I don’t know if it will work out, but I am going to try to be optimistic. ha!!
I think a race per month is a perfect running goal. It will keep you going, but it is also flexible. *btw: you are kicking butt in your training!!!
Mine is FOCUS.
I think my one word for 2014 is “Portland.”