Just One Word for 2012

I have struggled this year to find one word. Yes, lots came to mind and they were good words.  Inspiring or powerful, but somehow they did not completely fit what I felt.

I knew 2011 was going to be a challenging year with lots of decisions and choices to make.  

And so I chose the  word 'intuition'.  It was a reminder that I just need to sit quietly and listen, rather than to act straight away.  And I learnt that if I didn't follow my head, or what other people said, I could trust my intuition to guide me.  

And so, I sat with not having a word  to start this new year.  Hoping that it would come to me when the time was right.  And it did.  Last night.

Progress

It's not a word that I had considered or even thought of.  But it felt just right.  And last year I made a lot of progress.

For one thing I was redeployed and my role within a new service  has involved lots of adaption and a big learning curve.  It has worked out much better than I expected, and it continues to be a time for development and change.  And I am looking forward, rather than to the past. 

And my home.  Well, yes that is still work in progress, with the kitchen and utility room unfinished.  But change has happened since I posted here.  Lots of change infact.  And it

continues to happen.

                                                             In all areas of my life.

But, because change can happen slowly and progressively I don't always  acknowledge how hard I have worked throughout the year.  But I am giving myself a pat on the back right now, and recognising that progress has been made and that 2012 has started out on a much more positive footing. 

And the more I think about the word, I like Progress.

Yes, I really do. 

I wanted a word that recognised change, movement, and growth....   how far I came last year in practical achievement and personal growth.  And the work that is yet to come.... the planned and the unexpected.   And the dictionary defines it just so:

noun1.

1. movement forwards, esp towards a place or objective

2. satisfactory development, growth, or advance

3. advance towards completion, maturity, or perfection; the steady onward march of progress

Progress sits comfortably.  It is not static or stuck.  Yes, I can happily live with this word, because it is positive, inspiring and it has energy.  Thank you, intuition.....


Before I go I want to share these two posts.  Because they describe how other people chose their words.  

So, I wonder if Alexa, at Trimming the Sails will leave you thoughtful and moved, like I was?

Or, Layla, at The Lettered Cottage will make you smile with her tale of a movie?

And finally, I wonder if you have a Word for the Year, and if so, what inspired you to choose?

 Because what ever it was, I hope it brings you guidance and inspiration throughout 2012.