When I made the mental switch to a word or theme of the year, instead of New Year’s resolutions, I was a bit overwhelmed at how to go about picking something. It’s funny how endless possibilities can sometimes feel more limiting than just being given a few options. Honestly, open-ended questions often make my brain go blank. This was definitely one of those times.  So like a good type-A person, I researched how people pick their words and looked for lists of potential words.

I knew I wanted something that would feel practical enough to span all the different aspects of my life: my own personal health and wellness, being a mom and a wife, spiritual life, social life and entrepreneur.

Some of the research I found encouraged choosing a word that describes an area of life that you want to work on. When I think about the types of words I often think about words that somehow convey slowing down, being more intentional or saying no. Anyone else feel like they need more of that in their life? But the more I went down that path, the more it felt like I had to muster up a lot of self-control. It felt more like avoiding or stopping things was the goal, instead of actively prioritizing good things. 

In the world of nutrition, I see this conflict between “cutting out” and “adding in” a lot. For many years, the food industry and nutrition leaders focused on what wasn’t in your food – calories, fat, cholesterol, salt, etc. There was an emphasis on strict diets that tell you what you are allowed to eat and how to lifehack your way around temptation.

In the past decade or so, I have seen a significant shift. The emphasis has become more on what positive things are in your food – fiber, vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, protein. Like my post on what defines good food and exploring the idea of abundance, I love reminding people that they do not live in a world of scarcity, but in fact there are many choices out there. Nutritious, delicious and satisfying foods are plentiful! And I have also seen more of a shift toward mindful and intuitive eating, recognizing these philosophies can help you eat what your body needs, without constantly feeling deprived.

All that to say, it took a bit of internal conversation. But I came up with the word:

NOURISH 

From a health perspective, nourish helps me think about what I’m putting into my body to help fuel it so that it will thrive. When I’m focused on nourishing, I’m not concerned about the size or shape of my body, but rather how it moves and feels. Nourish means I’m going to reach for foods that have vitamins and minerals and protein and fiber, but it also means that I’m not going to skimp on the cheese and chocolate.

I also think about life as an entrepreneur. It can be overwhelming and confusing to know where to invest your time and energy. Like in many areas of life, the tyranny of the urgent often overshadows the best and most fulfilling options.

That is how I want to spend 2019. Helping people find what they need to flourish – myself included.

And of course, I look forward to nourishing my mind and emotional well-being with good books (just got “Becoming Michelle Obama” and cannot wait to read it!) and conversations with friends. Prioritizing my marriage and time with my toddler by being fully present, not just “in the house”.

There is also something about the word nourish that implies an intimate care and cherishing of something. Holding something precious gently but with fierce protection. Providing what it needs to flourish.

That is how I want to spend 2019. Helping people find what they need to flourish – myself included.

I’d love for you to join me on the year of nourish. I’d also love to know what words or themes are inspiring you as we approach the new year.