Last New Year, I chose a word that I wanted to guide my 2019 goals and aspirations. This was inspired by my favorite mentor and speaker, Rachel Hollis, and I love the idea of setting an intention, a feeling, instead of adding another “to-do.” I think there is something really wonderful about settling in in the winter and reflecting on your past year, then diving into your hopes and dreams for the new year. What do you want to feel? Where do you want to go? What will that take?
2019 was my year of COURAGE.
When I made the decision to go out on my own and start a business with my name on it, it took courage, especially because it meant leaving the comfort of a large franchise that I worked at for the previous decade. Courage has actually been something I’ve worked to build for a long time. When I was a teenager in a pre-professional ballet program, I used to write it in my journal every day in large letters. I was the kid who preferred the back row. I have always loved hard work and focus and discipline, but in my own quiet space. I never wanted to be center stage, and it was almost painful to do so. Now, all these years later, I came face to face with that word again. If I wanted to share my passion for movement and mindfulness, I knew I needed to find the courage to step out of my shell. That word served me well through 2019 as I put my name on a new business, and did the work every day to show up and feel proud of what that stands for. Now I find myself in a new year with a new intention.
Jumping into 2020, my focus is on EXPANSION.
Of course, courage has become a part of me and will continue to be an important value in how I live my life but seeing the impact M3 is having already has helped me to know that when I follow my heart and my passion, and let myself shine on that center stage mark, incredible things can happen. So to continue to grow both personally and professionally, this year I am challenging myself to open up, expanding my space, my bubble, and my reach. Allowing for cracks to show so that the light can shine through. I love to think of my word/my intention when I am tired, when I am doing my mindful movement, when I’m unsure.
How can I personify this word today, right now? There’s something about moving in a way that evokes a feeling that just clicks and feels right.
There is power in sharing, speaking, and putting your intentions out into the world. It takes a lot of courage for me to share mine, and I hope it inspires you to do the same. Share your word of the year below and let’s enCOURAGE each other to live with intention, joy and passion.
Happy 2020.
Maggie
