Touchstone Word 2012

I think touchstone words are magical. There, I said it. This will be my fifth year of having one and if it plays out as the others have, I will find at the end of it that every major decision, life event, and serendipitous moment will be tied to that word. 

If you aren't sure what a touchstone word is, it is the one word that sums up the direction and feeling the new year will have. Not only do I create goals that guide me in the direction of the word, I also use it whenever I come to one of life's crossroads. I opt for the choice most likely to bring me closer to realizing the word. It hasn't steered me wrong yet.

At the beginning of 2011 I told you my touchstone word for the year was INVEST. And, I did. I spent countless hours and a lot of money on classes to build my creativity. I learned about writing, photography, and painting. I invested in my career by taking on new responsibilities and meeting with leaders within the organization to discuss future opportunities. I invested in my well-being with the practice of yoga, tai chi, meditation, and by becoming vegan. I renovated the kitchen, made minor repairs and upgrades to the rest of the house, and met with a realtor to prepare my house for sale this spring. Whenever I had a day off, it was spent investing in one of these endeavors. I dare say, this was one of the most fulfilling and productive years I've ever had. 

As I've said before, I don't choose my touchstone word... it finds me. And this year, it started whispering in my ear about the end of October. I wasn't even thinking about the new year but there it was, this tiny little voice insistently begging to be noticed. I tried to put it out of my mind, thinking that if it was still around in December, it was definitely the word. As it turned out, I haven't been able to think of anything else since. It just feels right and is the perfect next step in this evolution I'm undergoing. 

My touchstone word for 2012 is CONNECT.

Much of 2011 was spent inwardly, putting forth time, effort, and money into things that would expand my understanding, grow my interests, and poise me for the next steps I need to take. In 2012, I expect my vision to become more outwardly focused. I'm not sure I'm ready to discuss my specific goals but I have some that will help me find connections to people I already love, people I have yet to meet, a community I have yet to find, and with a bit of introspection, to the me I am yet to be. 

This is going to be the best year yet. 

Comments

[Mary]

I like this word. Very nice. Keep us updated, please. xo

[Ramona]

Connect is a great word
Mine is strength.