“Whatever we hope ever to do with ease, we must first learn to do with diligence.” - Samuel Johnson

In this month’s newsletter, we explore the concept of a “word of the year.” Have you ever thought about choosing a “word of the year”? While it may seem like a trendy idea, it can actually be a transformative practice that encourages deep reflection on your journey.

Imagine taking a moment to pause and reflect on your past experiences, dreams, and the valuable lessons you’ve learned along the way. This meaningful ritual not only helps you set clear intentions but also provides a focused perspective from which you can observe your personal growth as it unfolds.

While I’ve never personally chosen a “word of the year,” I've been captivated by the way others have embraced their personal mantras. It’s truly inspiring to witness how these guiding words illuminate their paths, constantly leading them back to their authentic selves.

As I took time to reflect on selecting a word for 2025, one word kept surfacing in my thoughts—“diligent.” It lingered in my heart throughout the holidays, and when the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, I felt a spark of clarity: this was my word! But what does it really mean to embrace “diligent” as my guiding principle?

To truly commit to this mantra in 2025, I needed to dig deep and explore how “diligence” intertwines with every facet of my life, especially my wellness. What does it look like to be diligent in my self-care, my passions, my business, and my relationships? How can I cultivate a mindset of perseverance and focus?

The term "diligent" conjures up images of someone with a steadfast work ethic, tirelessly devoted to their tasks and responsibilities. When you describe someone as diligent, it speaks to their purposeful approach and unwavering determination in all they do. Throughout my corporate journey, I embraced this ethos wholeheartedly, pouring my energy into my career and the needs of those around me.

However, after years of prioritizing work and others, I realized that this same diligence needed to extend into my personal life. Learning to apply that same level of commitment to myself was a journey of discovery. It was time to shift the balance, to invest in my own passions and well-being with the same fervor I had dedicated to my career. Finding that equilibrium has become an essential part of my growth, turning the focus inward and embracing a life that values both hard work and personal fulfillment.

Being diligent involves not just putting in effort but doing so consistently over time. This means that a diligent person is not easily distracted or deterred by challenges; instead, they remain focused and strive to overcome obstacles that may arise. Their earnestness suggests a sincerity and seriousness in their pursuits, indicating that they value the importance of their tasks and take them seriously.

Last night, as I settled into my personal prayer and devotion time, I reached for a devotional I had purchased, “Focus: How One Word a Week Will Transform Your Life” by Cleere Cherry Reaves. It’s amazing how God communicates with us in ways that often defy explanation, but this time felt particularly special. The first word in Cleere’s book is “diligent.”

As I immersed myself in the entry, an exhilarating sense of connection washed over me—it wasn’t just reading; it felt profoundly personal. Cleere brings to light a fascinating perspective on diligence that truly challenges the status quo. She boldly asserts, “We try to work really hard, get a lot done, and prove that we are capable of handling tasks. But when Jesus speaks about diligence, He attaches it to delight, to care, to love.”

Her words lingered in my mind, prompting me to reconsider how I approach my own responsibilities. What if diligence isn’t just about relentless effort and productivity? What if it’s also about infusing our tasks with joy and genuine care? This shift in perspective not only inspires a deeper sense of fulfillment but also encourages us to find delight in the journey, rather than merely focusing on the destination. How liberating it would be to embrace our work with love and passion, transforming duty into a vibrant expression of who we are!

As we step into 2025, let's pause for a moment and consider the power of intention. Whether you've already selected a word of the year or are still pondering one, take a moment to truly reflect on what it represents for you. What feelings does it evoke? How might it shape your decisions, relationships, and goals this year? Embrace this opportunity for self-discovery and let your word guide you toward a more meaningful journey ahead. Your word has the potential to influence your mindset and actions—make it count!