Share
Tweet
Pin
Email

The first week of each new year, I devote time to reflecting on the previous year before I created a plan for the coming one. I consider what went well, what didn’t, and what needed to change. I try to make my celebrations list longer than my shortcomings, with more gratitude than gripes. But looking at the change list is where I determine my theme for the year. It’s where I find the things I crave more of and the words I want to exemplify both publicly and deep in my soul. Past years’ words have included shine, delight, flourish and change.

This year, my heart’s desire is for more joy.

Joy in the morning with the Lord

Joy during the day as I go about my work.

Joy in my marriage and relationships.

Joy in playing more with my grandchildren.

Joy instead of anxiety and worry.

Joy is defined as delight, jubilation, happiness, glee or pleasure. It is an emotion evoked by well-being, success or good fortune. I did a deep word-study, searching scriptures and internet resources for my new theme and found my favorite definition from author Margaret Feinberg. ”Joy is reflecting the delight of our Heavenly Father.”

Joy is not the same as happiness, although it is often interchangeable. Happiness is tied to circumstances. Joy is an attitude of the heart. Joy is present even when times are tough, during illness or loss, and even when the future seems impossible. Happiness comes from outside sources. Joy flows from the inside out.

That’s what I want this year… more joy that flows from the inside out, no matter what’s going on in my life. Joy instead of worry. Joy shared with others. Joy in the Lord. At the end of every day–or as often as I can remember–I will ask myself if joy overflowed in my life; if I inspired joy in those I touched. Ultimately, I will ask if I brought joy to my Creator.

What do you want more of this year? What would make your life more complete? Do you need balance, contentment or change? Would you like to experience greater self-care, increased focus or more time with family?

I encourage you to claim a word as your theme for the year, and use it as a guide for your life. Spend time pondering your word, and share it with us! May you find more of it this year and beyond.

Share this Story
Share
Tweet
Pin
Email

Susan is passionate about helping women become stronger and more vibrant by helping them define what’s truly important in life. Like all of our Contributing Writers, Susan has found herself at a major crossroads. Her site was one of the top five resources for women over 50, but she felt it wasn’t enough. She now supports women—on a deeper level—and 1010 Park Place is excited to host Susan Tolles’ Q&A’s. She will answer your questions about integrating your life with your desires. Susan doesn’t do fluff. She digs deep. Want to create a legacy that goes beyond material possessions? Ask Susan! Susan can also be found at http://theflourishinglife.today

2 thoughts on “What’s Your Word?”

  1. I chose a word for the year for the very first time in 2016. That word was trust and it manifested itself in ways I could never have imagined! Thanks for reminding me of the power of claiming a word as a theme for the year, you’ve inspired me to choose one for 2017 now. Esther xx

Comments are closed.

MAKE LIFE COUNT.

Sign up to our list and we’ll send you our sought-after guide “50 Ways To Change Your Life”
I'm happy you've joined us! If you like what you read, I'd love for you to stay and subscribe to our updates by email. We have a great community of like-minded women, and your presence can only make it stronger.