My word for 2019 is CONNECT. I heard a phrase this year that caught my attention, it was simple; “only connect”. In other words, don’t compete, impress, strive, perform…, always connect. Ever since then I have been running everything through the filter of ‘Does xyz lead to connection, or does it impede connection?’. I ask myself ‘Is the food I cook when others come over chosen from connection, or to impress?. ‘Is the outfit I’m wearing to the party going to foster connection, or am I trying to earn approval?’. Is this story I’m sharing for the purpose of connection, or am I using it as a chance to brag or whine?’ In all of that I keep repeating the phrase “only connect” to myself.

This year I want to dive deeper into looking at things through the lens of connection. I want to choose connection over striving, performing, impressing and so on. I want to focus on the priorities of my connection; God first, my family next, and others after that. I don’t want to run to everyone else with my problems if I haven’t first brought them to God. I don’t want to run around connecting with friends all day, leaving myself tired and closed off to my family in the evening. Each connection is vital, and it is imperative that each connection is prioritized appropriately. So here’s to 2019, the year of CONNECT.

Do you have a word or theme for the year? If so, what is it?