One Word

A few weeks ago, I asked, "What is Your Why?". Since then, I've been asking myself "why" questions quite a bit. In Evan Carmichael's book, Your One Word, he says that we all have a word that can help us better understand ourselves and our purpose. My word is...

Actually, let me start with this. I've heard several people talk about their one word but I never really put serious thought into determining one for myself. I have a personal mission and some key guiding principles, but no one word. So I thought that would be an interesting experiment to find one that aligns with my mission and guiding principles. My personal mission is "to love, enjoy, inspire, encourage, and positively impact those within my circle of influence." And the follow up to that is "to grow my circle of influence." I outlined my key guiding principles in A Peak Behind the Curtain. My mission and guiding principles have evolved and will likely continue to evolve, but these thoughts help keep me headed in the right direction.

So what is my word? It took a lot of "why" questions. I have several daily habits and I believe that every intentional habit should have a strong why. Why do I exercise? To prepare for a marathon. Why? To stay in shape. Why? To be healthy in the long term. Why? So I can have more time to love, enjoy, inspire, and encourage those around me. Why? To make a positive IMPACT in my circle of influence. Why do I read? To learn. Why? To be informed and educated. Why? To live life better personally and professionally. Why? To be able to share and care for those around me. Why? To make a positive IMPACT in my circle of influence. Most of my habit questioning followed a similar path. So there you have it. My ultimate why and my one word: IMPACT.

Think about why you do the things you do. Then ask why again. Then ask again. Is there a word that you come back to and resonates with you? Find and share your word. And hopefully that word will make a positive impact in your life.

Enjoy the day!