This is the 6th year I’ve adopted a word to use as a theme for the year ahead. I’ve used so many great ones in the past, and I felt strongly that 2020 deserved a magical word. One that was strong and full of intent.
I went back and forth quite a few times. Before the holidays, I settled into JOY as my word, and then quickly… I realized that it didn’t encompass all that I wanted to achieve in the year. Joy will always be a foundation of what I hope to create each year; however, I’ve decided 2020 is all about LIGHT.
While it’s a common word we use every day, there is quite a bit more depth to the word light than you’d expect. Reviewing the definition gave me chills and quickly confirmed its spot as the word of the year for 2020.
Light (verb): to make (something) start burning; ignite
2019 ended abruptly. Without going into a lot of detail, I’ll share that there was a goal I was working on that is no longer achievable and *clearly* demonstrates that I am on the wrong path in one area of my life. If I’m honest, I’ve known for some time that I had outgrown this path. Sometimes, however, I need an abrupt situation to happen for me to take action. Let me assure you, that has happened and the time has come for change. While I’m still a little cranky about the situation as I type this, I absolutely know I will look back on this moment as a great New Year’s Eve gift.
All that being vaguely stated (sorry about that!), it’s time to ignite that fire and find the next big opportunity and to chase these dreams I’ve been sitting on. I’m looking toward the light in 2020, and hoping to find something magical in its realm. Something fulfilling. Something life-changing. Something that will enable growth.
NTTC LIGHTBULB for 2020: It’s time to put myself out there in 2020, in more ways than one. While it can be scary, I know that it’s time. I’m attending Rachel Hollis’ Rise Conference next week that’s all about living your best life…. and I feel like there might be some answers, motivations, moments of clarity that come from that. Amazing way to kick off 2020!
I also feel compelled to spend more time mentoring and connecting with others in the year ahead. To continue with our theme of light, the concept that “A candle losing nothing by lighting another candle” is eloquent and appropriate as we look ahead. As I collect years, I’m also starting to realize that I am a grown up and while it seems crazy, I have some wisdom that I should start sharing both on the career side and personal growth arena as well. It’s time that I start giving back more in the year ahead.
NTTC LIGHTBULB for 2020: I really enjoy public speaking and love to be on-stage with a microphone. In 2020, I’d like to find new ways to hone this skillset and positively influence those around me.
Light (noun): something that makes vision possible
I’ve spent a lot of time over the years focusing on self-care and personal growth. I find it tremendously fulfilling and energizing. I never EVER regret time spent in this realm.
I also recognize that having a daily practice is what is going to propel my vision and my growth. For whatever reason, I’ve hesitated in this area in years past. 2020 is the year that I change this dramatically.
NTTC LIGHTBULB for 2020: I’ve already begun writing in a journal (nearly) every day… capturing items I’m grateful for daily and actively writing out my intentions. I’d like to continue this through 2020 and manifest some of the magic that’s waiting for me. I firmly believe that my vision will become a reality when I dedicate time to it in the year ahead. Can’t wait to share with you all the details as the magic unfolds…
Light (noun): the natural agent that stimulates sight and makes things visible
2019 felt dark to me. It just did. Lots of adulting happening around every corner. Friends suffering from anxiety, others going through divorces. People losing loved ones, others losing jobs. It just has been a dark year. I love the idea of manifesting a great deal of LIGHT in the new year as a result.
In 2019, I found myself outdoors more than in years past, and I truly feel that sunlight is a naturally healing agent. Weather it’s the vitamin D or just good ol’ fashioned fresh air, being outside was something that always lifted my spirits. I look forward to spring/summer/fall to return and having more opportunities to be outdoors.
NTTC LIGHTBULB for 2020: I’ve spent quite a few days in the sun in Arizona in late 2019, but I feel like the ocean is calling me (and those crystal blue Caribbean waters). I’d love to swim in the ocean where it looks like a 90’s screensaver in 2020.
Light (adjective): of little weight; not heavy.
There is a tremendous levity that I feel going into the new year, and it really shows up in multiple forms.
Physically, I’m starting 2020 lighter than so many other years – – TWENTY SEVEN pounds lighter than 2019, for example. As I climb stairs, carry groceries, or go for a walk, I am able to do so much more than I was able to do 27 lbs ago (or 70+ lbs ago from my highest weight.) My heart doesn’t have to work as hard to carry me to and fro, and frankly, I have a spring in my step that I love.
Mentally, I have proven to myself that I can do hard things. Losing the weight always felt really out of reach. While I have done this before, it felt different this time… daunting and impossible, like a huge weight on my shoulders that has now been lifted. I’ve also grown to trust myself more as a result of this process. Keeping promises to myself is huge, and I’ve come so much closer to making peace with my body than ever before.
LIGHTBULB FOR 2020: I’d like to find a fitness routine that I enjoy this year. I really don’t like sweating so much (it’s true), but I’d love to find something that fuels my soul and exercises my body at the same time. I need to carve out some time for this in the months ahead. I truly believe exercise is going to be my key to maintaining my weight loss and I need to lean in a bit in 2020.
Light (adjective): free from worry or unhappiness; cheerful
This definition made me so happy! I’ve written quite frequently about my very own Happiness Tour and I nearly chose JOY as my word for 2020. There is something inherently within me that craves joy and relishes in sharing it with others. When I read this definition of light, I 100% knew that I had chosen the right word for the year as it has an alternative meaning that is joyful!
In October 2019, I read a book called Fierce Joy (highly recommend it!) that I truly believe sparked a magical change in my life. Not a week goes by that I don’t quote the book, repeat its author’s powerful mantra, or recommend someone read it. When I find myself leaning into those things that scare me knowing fully that they will bring me joy, these are some of my most profound moments. I can’t wait to have more of these moments in 2020.
LIGHTBULB for 2020: In the words of Susie Rinehart, I plan to “Choose Joy over Fear and Brave Over Perfect.”
So, it’s official! My word for 2020 is LIGHT, and the possibilities are endless. I can’t wait to see what this great big year holds for each of us. I’ll keep you posted along the way… xoxo