My Word for the Year - Outside

We’re already in the first week of the New Year, but like many people I’m still contemplating what this year will bring, and how I can bring the New Year. Over at The Jungle of Life, Lance talks about focusing on one word.

Using one word was a new idea for me, and one I think I can get my arms around. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of setting SMARTER goals; as long as one doesn’t become overtly obsessed with achieving those goals by leaving other equally important life issues in the ground.

Back to the concept of using One Word as the cornerstone of achieving year round goals.

As soon as I thought about the idea of one word, my 2009 word came to me.

OUTSIDE!

Why outside?

Here’s why:

1) Outside my comfort zone – I have so many things I want to do, but for a few of them, I’m holding myself back because I need to do activities that are outside my comfort zone. You see, I’m good at planning, writing, and helping others. However, when it comes to promoting me, especially my business, I’m not so good. I struggle with “sales.” I know I have great products in Weight1Minute™, but talking to people about it, making sales calls, and going to meetings is a totally new experience. I’m not comfortable doing it.

But, to be successful, I know I have to put myself out there, face the possibility of rejection (because I know that there will be). What keeps me going is the strength of my product, the love behind it, the special relationships behind it, and knowing it’s a product that people can use and benefit from, so put myself out there I will.

2009 is my year to step outside my comfort zone.

2) Outside fitness – I love being outside, and fitness is one area I neglected in 2008. Too much time sitting at my computer, not following my own advice of “Step away from the Computer.” Every time I step outside to work out, I feel better. I just need to remember that feeling and do it more often.

2009 is my year to work out outside.

3) Outside photography – If you didn’t know, this year for Christmas, I received a new camera. Photography has been a passion of mine for many years, but due to so many circumstances, one that got left by the wayside many years ago. This new camera has reawaked my love of capturing images on film. I’ve even started a new blog to share my passion. When you have time, please check it out. I’d love your feedback, thoughts, and impressions.

2009 is my year to take photographs outside (and inside, too).

4) Outside of myself and look at the big picture – Over the last month, I’m so discovering the importance of reflecting on my goals and ambitions, taking stock of what’s working and what isn’t. As I stated in #1, I know what one of my main weaknesses is, but having acknowledged that, I know I’m on my way to improving.

But, reflection is more than just focusing on one area; it’s about spending too much time on one small part and not looking at the big picture. Last year, I spent too much time blogging and not enough time talking to people, making connections, and just having fun.

2009 is my year to step outside myself and look at the big picture

5) Outside reading material – I love reading, but in 2008, I spent too much time reading about my primary interests, health and weight loss, which I’m passionate about, but upon reflection, was extremely limiting. I have so many other interests that I didn’t pursue.

2009 is my year to find outside reading material that will help me grow, learn, and enjoy life a little more.

6) Outside balance with inside – Balance is the name of the game; balance work with play, exercise, family, friends, and just life itself. In 2008, I spent too much time working and not enough time “playing.”

2009 is my year to balance my inside with my outside.

So, there you have it; my word for 2009. I’m excited. Are you excited about 2009? If you could choose one word to sum up your goals, what would it be? Lance’s word is “Courage.” Life is too short to live with a long list, so thinking one word helps me stay focused, because

After all, it’s about a healthy lifestyle!

© Iowa Avenue