For the last few years I have selected a word to guide and center me through the year. I go through a protracted brainstorming session with myself and then sit with the list of words until one jumps out at me. (My Gran used to refer to this as letting the idea “percolate”.) In the past I have included some close friends in my selection process but it is hard for someone else to identify what speaks to another’s soul. To keep the word in the forefront throughout the year I add the word cryptically in a password, tape it to my bathroom mirror and post it on my fridge. In moments of uncertainty or when I am pondering a change/choice I use the word to help me evaluate options, choose a course of action or settle my anxious thoughts. Some of the words in past years include FEARLESS, RESONANCE and WHOLE.

I launched the process for the 2018 word of the year in early December. So far I have a list of six words for consideration. I always get a bit nervous that the “right” word will not become clear for me – after all these years you would think I would learn to trust the process as it has never failed me.

Best wishes for a joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year from Tree Consulting.