Every year, I choose a ‘Word of the Year’. No long list of New Year’s resolutions, just a single word that serves as my touchstone that will guide my actions for that year. One word is definitely a lot easier to remember than a long list of resolutions!
Last year, my word was PROSPER. It was about achieving growth and inviting blessings in my life. This year, I have chosen the word TIME.
How I came up with my One Word
I didn’t have to think too hard about my one word for 2023. All it took was one look at my daughters and I just knew that this word THE ONE. Watching my 5-year-old and my 2-month old girls grow up waaay too fast right before my eyes made me realize that time really is a thief, and that I must use this precious commodity wisely.
Being a present parent
This year, I want to spend more time with my girls. “But… you’re a stay-at-home mom,” you say. “Doesn’t that mean you spend ALL your time with your kids?”
There is a world of difference between just being physically present and actually being involved. I want to be there for my babies – ALL THERE, ALL IN, both in mind, body, and spirit. I want to make time for them and do things with them – play with them, read to them, take them to the playground, listen to their stories (or in Hailey’s case, her babbles), give them cuddles whenever they need it.
Believe me, this is much easier said than done when you have two children that both demand your attention and when you have a seemingly endless list of things to do. And because Hailey is still a needy and clingy little newborn, it’s inevitable that I give her more time than her big sister, Andi. But I will TRY my very best to make both of them feel seen, heard, and loved by carving out time for both of them.
Less scrolling, more living
I also aim to be more mindful of how I will spend my time outside of my mommy duties. My biggest time waster is social media. I just checked my Instagram activity log and discovered that I spend an average of 3 hours on the app. 3 HOURS?!? I could have done a lot of other more productive activities for 3 hours!
Now I’m not saying that social media is evil. It certainly has its advantages, and it has definitely has given me so much, such as a lovely community of moms that have become my friends even in the offline world, as well as really good work opportunities as a content creator. But sometimes, without even realizing it, I spiral into mindless scrolling, and subconsciously, I fall into the comparison trap. So for 2023, my goal is to be more in control of how I use social media instead of letting IT control me.
If not now, when?
2023 is my last year as a 30-something. Holy crap, I’m turning 40 next year!!! Realizing this gave me more motivation to treasure time more and make the most of it. Growing older reminded me that I don’t have all the time in the world so I better do what I can do now, while I still can. If I have the time and budget to travel or experience new places and activities, I’ll grab the opportunity to do that. I’d also like to connect with my friends if our schedules permit. I’d also like to start doing things I’ve been putting off, like organizing our family photos.
Making time for me
It’s so easy to lose oneself in motherhood when you have little creatures that depend on you for, well, practically everything! My life is a continuous cycle of breastfeeding, changing dirty diapers, laundry, organizing family affairs… anyway, you get the picture. Most of the time, there is very little time for MY needs and interests because I have to put my children’s needs first.
But this year, I want to make time for things that bring me joy. I want to take time to enjoy my hobbies and passions, even if it’s only for a few minutes a day. I’d like to set aside a little bit of time each day doing things that fill my cup… that have NOTHING to do with my little ones. You know what they say, right? “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” Happy mama, happy babies!
Trusting God’s timing
As much as I want to map out my life, I know that things don’t always go as planned. Last year, I had some goals that I wanted to achieve, but I didn’t. Naturally, when I looked at other people who had what I wanted, I felt like I was falling behind. I asked the Universe: “When will it be my turn?” But the Bible tells us:
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclessiastes 3:1)
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
This year, I want to learn how to trust in God’s timing. I need to remind myself that my ways are not His ways, and that He is never too early or too late in keeping His promises.
And indeed, He kept His promise last 2022! Here’s a photo for proof:
How about you? What is your word for 2023? I hope that whatever word you choose, you find the inspiration and enthusiasm to live by it! Happy New Year!
