Four One Words
The One Word of Why
Three years ago, I started thinking about what motivated me in life. Inspired by Evan Carmichael’s book, Your One Word, I wanted to simplify and clarify my personal “why” to better understand and express myself, my purpose, and my best next step. Finding one single, foundational word helps give us clarity and motivation. One word is easy to remember and build on and inspires us to stay focused in our daily lives.
"There is one word that defines who you are, connects all the things in your life that make you come alive, and will help you escape the chains of mediocrity."
Evan Carmichael
The First Three One Words
I chose my first one word, IMPACT, from my personal mission. I had identified my mission as “to love, enjoy, inspire, encourage, and positively impact those in my circle of influence.” The following year, I chose INSPIRE as my foundational word from that same mission. Last year, I chose CONNECT because of my desire to connect with God and others and to be present and actively engaged.
My Fourth One Word
This year, I planned to update my one word once again. I think it’s a healthy practice to reconsider my motives and what drives me. I had several ideas to choose from but decided that as I looked back over my past several journals and writings, my one word was actually choosing me. PEACE. This seems to be a recurring theme I’ve embraced. Love, joy, and peace. Solitude, silence, stillness, and peace. Peace with God, others, and self. I’m definitely looking forward to pursuing this year’s one word. PEACE.
Enjoy the day.
Enjoy the peace.
In 2017, I wrote "Impact" on a notecard and posted it in my office to look at every day. In 2018, I wrote "Inspire" on a second notecard and pinned it on top of my first card. Last year, I did the same with "Connect." This year's notecard is stacked on the other three and pinned in the same place. It's a fun reminder to focus on my daily why.
