My Three Words For 2010

Last week my friend, Terry, shared with me his new tradition (inspired by Chris Brogan) of thinking and praying about three words to define the upcoming year.  He told me about the words he’d come up with in ’09 and how he’d seen growth in those areas throughout the past 12 months.  I instantly liked the idea and began to think about three words I want to define me and my life in 2010.

#1 Control – as in self control.  I feel this challenge specifically in the way I respond and interact with my boys and with my wife.  My goal is for my family to see me as a man who does not overreact, explode out of anger, or allow my emotions to dictate how I talk or act.  I know that if my family knows me as this type of person, everyone else will.

#2 Faith.  This is one of those areas I feel I used to excel in so much greater than I do now.  Funny that as we mature we can actually digress in areas.  As a teenager, though I was at times arrogant and naïve, there also existed a genuine heart of faith and belief that I want to see rekindled this year.  I don’t want the struggles and disappointments along the way to shape me into a skeptical, bitter man.  Rather, I want to be characterized as a man full of hope and belief and willing to attempt great things as a result.

#3 Healthy.  This theme carries over from ’09.  It’s at the forefront of my mind again for this year probably because I’m not yet where I want to be.  I wrote in my journal yesterday that I want to be very healthy in mind, body and soul.  I’m not even exactly sure what that means, but I think it starts by being deliberate about what I consume (food, books, media, Scripture).  I want both my body and my mind to be fed well this year.  Also, I can’t help but think that cycling will be a big part of my striving toward healthiness.

Well, those are my three 2010 themes in a nutshell.  I’d love to hear what yours are.  And if you have any practical suggestions to help me achieve mine, please share below.