Written by Paige Dawson
“What’s in a name? that which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet.”
– William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet
Words are funny that way. The associations we make between them and what they represent, whether or not there is any logical connection, makes them driving forces carrying all the weight of meanings, emotions, and feelings.
We’ve all heard the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never harm me.” I think we can agree this isn’t really the case. Sometimes, it would be easier to be pelted with rocks than harsh words. Words are powerful, powerful enough to shape our worldview… at least that’s what the followers of the #oneword movement are saying. (Watch this TODAY show video featuring Jon Gordon to get the scoop.)
Individuals and groups, like One Word and One Word 365, are harnessing the power of words, instead of New Year’s resolutions, to shape lives for the better. This take on committing to life change may just be the answer to your New Year’s resolution prayers.
“Focus on being rather than doing,” advocates One Word 365. “Different than resolutions, your own word isn’t a constant reminder of what you ‘should be doing’. Instead, it stands to inspire how you want to live. Think about who you want to be, and choose a word that will help you become that.”
The idea behind initiatives like One Word 365 is to choose just one word to guide your life, instead of making New Year’s resolution plans you won’t keep.
In our first team meeting of 2018, we each chose a word we wanted to summarize (and remember throughout) the coming year for our marketing and public relations firm. By chance, we ended up having a sort of theme, as all of our words started with ‘P’.
Positivity – A positive outlook goes a long way. In 2018, we hope as individuals and a team to maintain positive attitudes and optimistic outlooks.
Productivity – Life in marketing/PR is sometimes a balancing act. In 2018, we’re aiming to keep a focus on our productivity so we can continue to do great work and improve our services.
Peace – When life gets crazy, let’s not go crazy. Personally and professionally, we’re striving to remember peace and live the year with a calm internal state…despite whatever chaos might be happening externally.
Profitability – We enjoy what we do and want MPD Ventures to continue to be successful. If we’re profitable, we can continue to do the work we love for the clients we love.
In case you were wondering, the word I chose in our meeting was peace. I can already see the difference it’s making in my thinking. When I feel myself sweating the small stuff, I remind myself that I chose peace as my word for the year, and inexplicably, I feel just a little bit better.
When you do pick your word, there’s no doubt that living by it will be a work in progress. Hang in there and don’t quit. Make 2018 a #oneword year.
Getting started is easy. Pick your word. Select an image as a visual reminder. Print it out and hang it in your break room, bathroom, or desk. Use it as your screen saver. Have it be your mantra when feeling down or stressed. Here’s to a great year!
Got a word you’re going to live by this year? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
