word of the year

Expand:

  1. to increase or grow in extent, size, volume, scope
  2. to spread out; unfold; develop
  3. to express something more fully or in greater detail

Yes, this is my word for 2017!  

Expand

I have had the ritual of choosing a word of the year since 2009.  My previous words have been:

2016 - Daring Greatly & Gather
2015 - Connection
2014 – Build
2013 – All the Cards on the Table
2012 – Soar
2011 – Love
2010 – Connect
2009 - Wings

It has been incredible to see the way these words manifest themselves.  Usually not the way I thought they would but it turns to be exactly what my heart needed.  

I found my word for 2017 as I stood on the oceans edge.  The warmth of the sun greeting my face, the sound of the waves creating a sacred rhythm inside my heart as I took a deep breath in filling my lungs with the crisp salty airy.  The ocean is wide, deep, expansive.  It takes up the space it needs as it ebbs and flows.  In and out the waves roll with a fierce strong conviction.  The ocean understands it's place in this world and it shows up unapologetically each and every day.  Never is it frozen over or lazy.  The waves continuously roll in and out expanding their reach.  

Expansive, expanding, expand.  To spread out.  To develop.  To reach far and wide.  To allow myself to be seen.  To be heard.  To show up.  Arms wide open.  Heart ready to give and to receive.  Taking risk's.  Going the extra mile.  Reaching out a hand.  Asking for what I really want.  Asking for help when I need it.  Expanding my horizon's.  Being free.  Being strong.  Being fierce.  

Yes!  This is what I am looking to create in 2017.  I want to expand into the fuller, deeper version of myself. I want to show up in the world unapologetically.  Sharing my passions.  Inviting others in.  Doing what I love.  I want to expand!  

And so I am tucking this word deep into my pocket to carry with me for the entire year.  I am holding it close and also giving it space to breath.  I am not sure what doors will open.  What choices I will have to make.  What unknown moments will occur.  But I do know one thing.  I am ready to expand.  Ready to express myself for fully and in greater detail.  The time is now to begin accomplishing my dreams.  No reason to wait any longer and so I am off.  Taking the reins of 2017 and carving my own path.  

Do you choose a word for the year?  I would love to hear what it is.  Let me know in the comments and together let's celebrate the all the potential that this year holds.