Friday, January 1, 2010

And my word is...


That's the word I chose to focus on during 2010. Fulfillment. It doesn't actually roll off the tongue. It's a little awkward to say. But that one, simple word carries with it a lot of possibilities for the new year.

It's about "making full." Being fulfilled in all areas of my life. Relationships, work, creative endeavors.... It's about "meeting requirements." Fulfilling responsibilities as a wife, mother, teacher, and human being.... It's about "measuring up" and feeling a sense of satisfaction at the end of the day. Not trying to be perfect, but feeling at peace with the effort I put forth and the choices that I make. It's about "converting into reality" the dreams, desires, and plans that I would like to achieve. And, perhaps my favorite definition of the word, fulfillment is about "developing the full potentialities."

I like that.

Developing my full potentialities. Ending each day with a sense of satisfaction.

Fulfillment.

I first got the idea of focusing on a word from Caroline. The idea is to let go of resolutions that never seem to make it past mid-January and instead let a word help direct your life for an entire year. Last year, I chose "faith" and "joy" and teamed up with several other blog friends to post reflections each month. That experience was profound, as I unconsciously began to incorporate my friends' words into my own life while intentionally looking for joy all around me. Wendy has already chosen her word for the year, which you can read about here.

If you haven't chosen a word before and would like a little inspiration, I have two places you should go. First, visit my friend, Caroline, an amazing writer and photographer who inspired me to choose a word for 2009. You should also visit Christine Kane who, during the entire month of December, focused her blog on Word-of-the-Year to inspire and encourage others to explore this idea.

And then, come back and tell me about your word! I want to hear all about it and would love for you to share your journey with me this year. I'll continue to post reflections each month and hopefully provide a link to my friends' reflections. I'll be glad to include you on this journey, too.

Happy 2010! Let fulfillment begin!

11 comments:

Pretty Zesty said...

I love the word "fulfillment" for 2010... since I shouldn't copy you... I'd say my word for this year will be CREATIVITY. I am only at my happiest when I get creative in all different ways... so this year instead of being lazy I am going to try and do something creative everyday! That is my fulfillment. Happy New Year!

beth said...

I love your word and it works in so many ways for so many parts of your life....

but I had to laugh as it reminded me of a male friend of mine who always says "furfillment" and even spells it that way....

here's to you and a wonderful 2010 !

an encourager said...

Hmmmmm... Right at this exact moment, I would say my word was 'letting go', but that's two words. So... I think my word might be (will have to pray about it) 'contentment'. Nope & ugh. My word for 2010 is going to have to be "ACCEPTANCE." Sad stuff happens in this life, and being the Queen of Fun, you can imagine how that word makes me scowl. :) Still, I can either accept the things allowed or dig a hole and jump in. Hmmmm.... :) Thanks for making me think!

Wendy said...

Hello my friend, I was so glad to see you have chosen a word! I have chosen mine as well and loved your post about your new word. Caroline also had an inspiring post and Christine Kane is amazing. I look forward to linking with you this year as well continue the journey. I'll start by expressing my GRATITUDE for your friendship!

Anonymous said...

its a great words that relates to a lo of different aspects of life. great choice!

Caroline said...

Love your word! Love your new look. What a beautiful way to begin the year. I think you will find much fulfillment indeed. XOXO

Gigi Thibodeau said...

I love this idea and the word you've chosen for this year! You've got the gears in my brain clicking and whirring.

Best wishes to you in the coming year!

xoxo Gigi

Anonymous said...
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Steph at Problem Solvin' Mom said...

Love your word! I think this year is going to be all about growth for me - my babies will be growing up like weeds on me, and since our plant closed I'll be growing professionally as well...or maybe not. These next few months I'm going to be holding my girls close and deciding on my next step in life.

Wishing you many blessings in 2010!

miruspeg said...

Hope this year's journey is filled with fulfillment Roban.
Excellent word to focus on.

My word is Compassion. I read a very simple but very wise quote the other day:

"The more you care, the stronger you can be".

Take care always.
Peggy xxxxx

Relyn Lawson said...

Still thinking about my word. Pondering it. I want to get a really good one, you know. I think yours is great, by the way.