Instead of making New Year’s resolutions, the last few years I have chosen a word or theme to focus on.  Last year, my word was “discernment.”

For 2017, I have chosen “quiet clarity.”

It’s time for me to slow down, and to listen.  To really listen.  I’ve been talking and presenting most of my life.  At age 13, I joined the debate team and competed every Saturday for four years.  At age 19, I became the youngest president of a countywide political organization.  At age 23, I became a lawyer, arguing for a living.  At age 26, I was a candidate for local public office, speaking to voters every single night for six months.  At age 34, it’s time to quiet down and listen more.

I want to listen to learn from others.  I want to listen for messages and life lessons.  I want to listen for inspiration.

I plan to meditate more, and will reflect and write about that on the blog as I do.  I’m also looking forward to clearing my mind in ways that I enjoy, by running, hiking, and sitting in nature.

I want to simplify parts of my life so they are not so complicated and so they don’t muddy my mind from what’s really important.

I am going to try to stop procrastinating with busy work, or fooling myself those things need to be done right away.

By doing all this, I hope to gain some clarity, truth, and direction.

What is your word or theme you hope to carry with you into the new year?