This was a new concept to me, but a friend on FB posted about how she was in the process of choosing her “word” for next year. She had a picture of this bracelet that had a washer with her 2020 word stamped on it. For 2020 she chose, “open,” with the idea that she would be more open to trying new and different things. Sort of saying “yes” to opportunities she might have refused in the past. I think the idea is that this is sort of either in lieu of (or perhaps in addition to) New Year’s resolutions. The concept seems to be that the bracelet provides a visual cue to keep your goal in mind.
Some googling around led me to the “MyIntent Project” website which produces bracelets, necklaces, key chains, etc. One can have a custom word printed on a washer and then attached to one of these for wearing.
Maybe I live under a rock, but I was unaware of this. Has anyone heard of it/done it? Even if you haven’t and don’t plan to, I am curious as to what words people would choose for their “word of the year” - so please share if you are so inclined!
While not a single word, I do choose a yearly mantra. For 2021 I’ve chosen the same one I created for 2020 because it really helped, namaste happy, namaste healthy, namaste grounded. Sometimes I’ll chant (sing) it in my head if I start to feel overwhelmed and I do find it helps center me, and I can feel myself relax.
I’ve been doing this for a few years along with my Happiness (this year 21 for 21) list.
I’m continuing last year’s word(s) since the year went wonky and I still feel plenty of room to improve.
“Lighten Up”
Lighten Up can apply in different ways…
Lighten up - declutter, reduce the # of things owned.
Lighten up - loosen up, relax, try not to stress!
Lighten up - eat healthier, less heavy meals
Lighten up - look for the bright side even more!
LIghten up - lose a couple of pounds or inches
If I were getting it imprinted, one side would be “-ish.” It’s actually a favorite word, expresses the vagaries around. It amuses me that I like this word and kind of says, ‘life’s like that.’ In some way, I think it implies control (if only because it acknowledges we don’t have control.) Don’t worry if this is confusing, lol.
But the 2nd side would read the full version of the bullxxxx word. Because so much I’ve been through or dealt with this year has been that- whether issues/challeges thrown at me, the reactions and attitudes of others, or sometimes just the petty level. Again, acknowledging with this word would imply some control.
I do a great job IRL of keeping up the positive front (more than a front, I emotionally support a lot of people around me, lay the proverbial hand on their shoulders, mediate, etc.) I don’t really need the pep talk to myself stuff. I do need a way to remember I’m doing the best I can with the crap. Does this make any sense?
