Many years ago, I learned about the practice of choosing three words to guide you through the year. It’s a simple idea with profound power. I tried it a few times, and the impact was undeniable. I still remember the year my word was quality. It became my anchor during tough decisions, reminding me to prioritize what mattered most.
This year, as I approach my 55th birthday next Thursday, I decided it was time to bring the practice back. But this time, I added a little extra magic: I created a vision board. I spent an afternoon cutting out words and images from magazines, and two of my three words jumped out at me like they were waiting to be found. The third word? I already knew it deep down.
So, here they are: Savor, Elevate, Thrive.
These three words feel perfect for me as I prepare for the year ahead. Life isn’t always a smooth ride—it’s not a Disney attraction with endless fun and fireworks. But even when things get tough, these words will help guide my mindset and my decisions. Of course, I’ll still rely on prayer and spiritual guidance, but a little extra positivity never hurts.
Savor
This year, I will not rush through the moments that count. I will pause, take a breath, and truly savor them. Too often, we let life speed past us, but when I’ve stopped to savor an experience, it’s like all my senses come alive.
Savoring life doesn’t just mean the joyful moments—it means embracing the quiet ones, the unexpected ones, and even the challenging ones. Because those are the moments that shape us.
Elevate
Elevate is about raising the bar in every area of my life, starting with the conversations I have. I miss the depth of discussions I used to have in college—talking about novels, philosophy, politics, and life. Social media doesn’t quite cut it for me, and while I have intelligent friends, our conversations often skim the surface. I want more. I want to go deeper.
Elevating also means expanding my cultural experiences. I love the idea of attending symphonies, art shows, and book events, but accessibility and logistics often get in the way. Sometimes it feels easier to stay home than to face the hassle. But this year, I want to make the effort, even if it’s not always convenient.
It’s not just about the cerebral side of life, though. Elevate also means improving my health choices, like dining at home more often and seeking out quality experiences when I do eat out. No more overpriced slop at restaurants—I deserve better!
I know I can’t elevate everything all at once, so I’m focusing on a few key areas. It’s a work in progress, but the journey excites me.
Thrive
This word has been on my mind the most, maybe because it rhymes with 55 or maybe because it’s exactly what I need. Life isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving.
I don’t want to live with the mindset of “just getting by.” I want abundance, success, love, and joy. Thriving means pouring into Audacity Magazine so it can reach more people and make a bigger impact. It means appreciating the life I already have while dreaming even bigger.
Thriving isn’t just a goal for me—it’s a mindset. I believe if more people chose to thrive, the world would be a better place. But since I can only control my own actions, I’m focusing on thriving for me.
A Year of Audacity
As I step into 2025, I know that savoring life, elevating my experiences, and committing to thriving will help me navigate whatever comes my way. I’m so grateful for the life I’ve built, for the ability to pay my bills, for my love of teaching, and for the opportunity to give back through Audacity Magazine.
Here’s to a year of audacity, growth, and living life to the fullest. I’m ready to savor, elevate, and thrive—and I hope you’ll join me on this journey.
With love and gratitude,
Nathasha