The Word for 2020: Renew

Last Updated on December 31, 2020 by lydiaf1963

I am not a “resolution” person. Like many people, my resolutions tend to fall away all too quickly. I do like to set goals, though, and for 2020 my goals all seemed to cluster around the idea of renewing body, mind and spirit. So for a change I thought I’d select a word for the year. RENEW it is!

For the bulk of 2019 I’ve been dealing with personal problems, mostly an aging menopausal body, but also some family issues and a little burnout/depression. One day, after I had uncharacteristically burst into tears over something trivial I tried to put things into perspective over a comforting cup of tea. Plain as day I heard:

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51

I’m sure you’re familiar with this quote. RENEW stuck out to me.

RENEW my eating habits so I feel and sleep better. Completing a Whole 30 round this summer has convinced me I could benefit from making changes.

RENEW my exercise habits. I can always find time to walk, but need to refocus on gentle strength training and stretching again. I feel best when I am doing all three on a regular basis.

RENEW my work habits so I’m not overwhelmed by my schedule. I was spending way too much time in front of a computer which led to burnout. I have benefitted from stepping away for a time, but now my blogs need some attention. Time to find a balance.

RENEW my media habits in order to limit the toxicity of the modern world. More time reading, less time on social media.

Do you prefer to make resolutions or set goals? Have you tried selecting a focus word in order to direct your goals? Feel free to share it in the comments below.

Photo credits: Pixabay