Thanks to a recommendation a few years ago from Jamie Van Natta, I’ve decided to choose a word (or two) for each year. After some reflection and some input from a few trusted friends, I’d like to announce my word(s) of 2019 are Rise and Thrive.
Thrive was the first word I chose. To explain WHY I chose this word for this year, let me start with the definition of thrive. According to Merriam Webster dictionary, thrive means:
1: to grow vigorously : FLOURISH
2: to gain in wealth or possessions : PROSPER
3: to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances —often used with on
Once I read this, I instantly knew this was the right word for me. What I’ve come to realize is that the last few years, I’ve been simply going through the motions. I’ve made goals and to-do lists and move through life checking items off. I don’t just want to grow, I want to flourish. In addition, I’ve had plenty of obstacles to overcome this past year, so to think of reaching my goals, even with these, gives me added hope.
My second word was a little tougher. I knew thrive alone wasn’t enough, but I struggled to find the right compliment to it. This is where english major friends come in very handy (thanks Lauren!). While there are many definitions for the word, here are a few of my favorites:
2: to return from death
3: to take up arms ex: rise in rebellion
7a: to move upward : ASCEND b: to increase in height, size, volume, or pitch
8: to extend above other objects ex: mountain peaks rose to the west
9a: to become heartened or elated ex; his spirits rose b: to increase in fervor or intensity ex: my anger rose as I thought about the insult
10a: to attain a higher level or rank ex: officers who rose from the ranks b: to increase in quantity or number
11a: to take place : HAPPEN b: to come into being : ORIGINATE
13: to exert oneself to meet a challenge ex: rise to the occasion
A lot of this just really seemed to match with my goals for 2019. While I may be struggling right now, I plan to return from death ;). I will rise to the challenge, rise above my doubts and fears, and rise to the top.
Have you chosen a word for 2019? If so, what is it? If you haven’t, I’d challenge you to try to come up with one or two. I find this a great exercise, not just for the beginning of the year, but it helps keep things in perspective throughout the year.