My Four Words for 2013

Another year has dawned upon us. It’s 2013 and a new start.

For those of you who have been following my blog for awhile, you know that I have a core set four words that I use to center my life. But I think for 2013, I’m going to also focus on a specific set of words to help me reach my goals.

  • Balance. I will be on a high-profile software project for most of the year. When I first found out, I wasn’t that happy about it. I knew it would only mean less time for writing. So instead of me being resentful, I will use this opportunity to implement balance and find a place for writing in my life. My goal is to find that balance until I decide on a job that can better complement my writing.

  • Focus. Guess what I learned in 2012? Multitasking is a myth. So I want to try to focus on one thing at a time. Prioritize and learn to give my true attention to the task in front of me. It won’t be easy but I think I will get more accomplished this way.

  • Depth. I was very happy when I finished my novel project last year. A miracle considering my limited time. My goal was to start the submission process, but in my heart I know the novel still isn’t ready. So before I can truly move on to the next project, I need to add more depth to this novel. The good news is that I know what must be done.

  • Forgiveness. This is the most important word of all. Even with all the preparation and good intentions, things will fall apart this year. I plan to forgive myself when things don’t work out instead of beating myself up when things slip. I will forgive myself because I’m only human and I’m doing the best that I can with what I have.

The year is new and limitless. Anything can happen. What are your plans for 2013?

16 Comments

  1. Ah yes, those words sound very familiar. I’ll be keeping them in mind during this year, too. Happy New Year!

  2. I love the idea of choosing a word (or words) to encompass your year. I’ve chosen a word myself and will share it on my blog later today. Good luck with your goals this year, and happy 2013!

  3. Andrea says:

    I love the way you reflect on what you need to do in your life! These four words are making me think about what I want to focus on to improve my own life this year. Thanks.

  4. Anne M Leone says:

    Such a hopeful way to begin the year. Good luck with all of it. I really do think our mindset can change much.

    • Karen Strong says:

      Our mind is such a strong thing. I think I got lost in a fog last year — it’s amazing I got anything done. This year, I’m not going to stress out. It’s going to be all about these words in 2013 for sure.

  5. What a great list to begin the year with, and I agree on your points. I need to think of my own words. Maybe I’ll ponder them tonight.

  6. Nutschell says:

    I love these words! I think focus would be my most important word this year :) i’m sure 2013 will be a blast for you :)

    Nutschell
    http://www.thewritingnut.com

  7. I couldn’t have picked four more perfect words myself, especially the last one! That’s the key to maintaining one’s sanity. ;)

  8. Saba says:

    Great words Karen! I need to implement them more this year as well! :)

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