My 2022 Focus Word
I've chosen the word I want to guide me this upcoming year.
If you've been following me for a little while, you know that instead of New Year's Resolutions, I like to choose a focus word for the year. This one word acts as my compass for the next 365 days.
In 2016 I chose STRETCH and in 2017 I chose BLEND. You can read more about them HERE.
In 2018 I chose LISTEN.
In 2019 I chose SHED. You can read the end-of-the-year recap HERE.
In 2020 I chose CONTENT. You can read the end-of-the-year recap HERE.
In 2021 I chose FAITH. You can read the end-of-the-year recap HERE.
So, what's my word for 2022?
I have chosen GENTLE.
What's funny is that this word was inspired by the women's Bible study group I've been attending virtually every week since the fall. The theme of gentleness in our words, actions, and thoughts kept cropping up quite a bit and it was really resonating with me, so I decided to have this be my focus for the year ahead.
Here are some reasons behind using this guiding word.
I could use to practice more kind words with my son as oftentimes his special needs can be a challenge and I need to do better at pulling upon patience and calm in managing his struggles.
My husband is taking on greater responsibilities at work and having a soft approach with him and his transition into his new role will help.
I have a family member who is experiencing a decline in their cognitive functioning and showing grace and kindness in my interactions with them will be crucial over this next year.
I have a dear friend battling cancer in its final stages and I need to continue to show up for them and be easy on myself when I don't know what to do or say and instead remind myself that my presence is what matters most.
I need to be more loving and soothing with myself and learn to let go of some of my people-pleasing and perfectionistic tendencies.
It would also help if I showed some tenderness with myself in terms of caring for and loving my physical body.
And here are some quotes on gentleness that resonate with me:
Nothing is so strong as gentleness and nothing is so gentle as real strength.
Ralph W. Sockman
In a gentle way, you can shake the world.
Mahatma Ghandi
Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars.
Max Ehrmann
In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit.
Anne Frank
A gentle soul is spiritual.
Lailah Gifty Akita
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1
Have you chosen a focus word for 2022?
Please share with me in the comments!
Image by Sponchia / 405 Images from Pixabay