My name is Rey, and I suffer from severe writer’s block. Considering my word for 2019 was “write,” this poses a bit of a problem. But this recent struggle to put words to screen has also shown me how important our word of choice is in shaping how we see ourselves.
As you consider what your word for 2020 will be, you want it to reflect an aspirational identity, a facet of your humanity that will move you forward toward the best version of yourself. The challenge is finding a singular word that captures a goal as big as personal transformation. Such an endeavor can be overwhelming. Is it even possible to find a word that embodies how you want to see yourself?
Toward the end of 2018, I was struggling with personal identity and the way my life was turning out. There were so many things I believed to be left undone; so many goals, dreams, projects. I knew I wanted to find a word that would spur me on to greater heights of self-awareness. I wanted a word that would serve as a synopsis not only of how I viewed myself but also how I wanted others to see me.
First, I needed my word to call me to action. I’m a procrastinator at heart, so my word had to be the kick in the ass I need to get me going.
Second, my word needed to be a reflection of who I am called to be. I don’t believe any of us are called only to earn an income to simply pay bills and meet monthly expenses. My word had to echo that one thing knew I needed to be for myself and those around me.
Finally, it was critical my word oozed passion. If it was a representation of a milquetoast, there was no way I could be excited about it.
For 2019, I landed on the word “write.” Do I earn my living as a writer? Nope.
Have I begun my great American novel or typed the first page of an Oscar-winning screenplay? Not at all.
But that wasn’t the point.
I chose “write” not because I care about earning a living writing (although to be honest, if that ever happens, I won’t complain). I chose “write” because what I care about most, what makes me sit in front of a blank screen and type, is a desire to craft thoughts and string words together in a way that challenges, inspires, and motivates others. In that regard, I am proud to say I’m a writer. I credit my word for 2019 for how I see myself.
It’s time for you to consider how you see yourself. What is your aspirational identity? What does the best version of yourself look like?