New Year Word(s)

I found this idea on a friends blog. When I read it, I didn't plan on doing it. I didn't think I could come up with a good word. Then it stuck with me and 3 words came to mind. They are words that I consciously think about every day, in the effort to better myself and help those around me, enjoy being around me. The meaning is really cool. I like this idea better than New Years Resolutions. Here is the idea:

Can you identify a single word that sums up what you want for yourself in 2009?

Your word can be anything you want it to be - it does not have to be soulful, or clever, or original. It can be practical and tangible. Don't worry if someone else has chosen the same word as you - this is just for you. You don't have to be creative - just be true.

The idea behind the one little word concept is to give yourself something to focus on throughout the year. "A single word can be a powerful thing. It can be the ripple in the pond that changes everything. It can sharp and biting or rich and soft and slow."

It can be something tangible or intangible. It could be a thought or a feeling or an emotion. It can be singular or plural. The key is to find something that has personal meaning for you. This is not your mother's word or your spouse's word or your child's word - this is YOUR word.

One little word can have big meaning in your life if you allow yourself to be open to the possibilities. And here's one thing that is totally interesting: sometimes a word will pop into your brain and it will not make any sense to you right now. Give it some time. Let it percolate a bit. I have often found that our hearts speak to us in very unique ways. Maybe this is a word you need to hear but just aren't ready for it yet. Again, be open to the possibilities.

Isn't it a wonderful idea!

My words for 2009 are:

I want to be more productive. I want to use my time more wisely. There is always so much to be done, and some times it overwhelms me to the point that I just don't do it until my list is longer than it should be. I know it can be done. I know that others can stay on top of things, so why can't I? I know it's because my time isn't as organized as it should.

I drink too much soda. I eat too many cookies and milk. I eat too much candy. I don't eat enough vegetables. I don't eat enough fruit. I need to eat healthier. I want to be healthier. I'm going to try and have more fruits for breakfast and more vegies with dinner. Maybe I'll take the stairs instead of the elevator... I just want to be a more healthy me.

It is so much easier to see the negative. to see what people are doing wrong, what others should do to improve your own situation. I want to be the change. I want to see the positive in everything. When something or someone gets me down, I need to look at it through their eyes, and not just my own.