A Year of Focus

Two years ago rather than come up with a list of resolutions that I knew I most likely wouldn’t keep I chose a word to be my “theme” for the year – gratitude.
My intention was to have that word be something I worked on regularly and help me stay on track with my goals and purpose.  I’d read about the idea in a novel by Debbi Macomber entitled Thursdays at Eight and really loved how choosing a word for the year impacted the characters. 

Life can be a trip, I tell you. Two years ago today (and two days after posting my 2011 focus on gratitude post), my uncle passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack.  Some days were much harder than others, but I made it a point to express thanks and gratitude for life’s treasures on a daily basis.  I decided to continue my my gratitude theme into 2012, as well.

2013 is bringing some shifts into my life both personally and professionally.  The word focus keeps coming to mind so I’m deeming that my word for this year.

When I reflect on 2012 and all the zipping and zooming that I did – I realized something. I did lots of  “stuff” but it doesn’t seem like I really accomplished anything.  On a regular basis, it seems like I’m super busy but I’m not getting a sense of completion.

This year I will be paying close attention to where I choose to spend my time and energy.  I want to be more focused and streamlined with my blog, personal time and professional goals.

I will be more diligent with setting S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-based) to ensure I’m not busy doing a bunch of nothing.

I’m, also, eliminating some things, people and organizations from my schedule.  Some I’ve outgrown and it’s time to move on.  We’ve met our purpose in each other’s lives.  We’ve grown together, learned from one another and need to separate before we begin to bring one another down.

I’m looking forward to another year of growth and living life to it’s fullest. Welcome 2013!