I can’t believe it’s been a whole year. A whole year since I wrote this post. You know the one word post, the no resolution post, the forward focus on in 2013 post. Oh yes, that post.
My word for 2013 was nurture. I have to say, I think I did that quite well. Thanks to the slowdown challenge, I was able to nurture a lot. And it was needed. I’m hoping to continue that in 2014 as well –> IN ALL AREAS.
But let’s talk about 2014 for a second. I guess I need a new word. And I’ve been thinking about it. I’m thinking my word for 2014 will be actually two words.
Open and ready.
In 2014 I want to be open to whatever God’s plans are for us. And want to be ready (and willing) to follow them.
I want to be ready for change or no change, I want to be ready for my husband’s career to thrive or to take a different path. I want to be open to whatever path that leads us too. Heck, I just want to be ready to see where this year leads us.
Still dreaming big….
But I think this is the year we’re ready to find out where those dreams are going to take us. Less waiting, more DOING.
I am not really sure, and I don’t think the Kiwi knows either. But like I said, we’re ready and open to whatever it may be. We’re just going to go for it. One last hurrah! Training, triathlon, racing, Healthy Bites, Crazy Cotter stories, traveling, GF recipes, Hard Yards Coaching, resting, and more!
I know, it sounds so vague, but that is our life. One step in many directions. I’m ready!
Speaking of being ready, are you ready for a new workout? Did you reset and re-power? I hope so, because you’ll need it for this workout.
Cheers to a marvelous last Monday of 2013!
What will your word being in 2014?
Crazy Cotter
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Jessie says
December 30, 2013 at 4:36 AMI dont believe I can give you a word at the moment. I love the concept & will really have to sit down & think. Thans for giving us a new way of looking at the “new year”. You’re awesome, Lindsay!
Lucie@FitSwissChick says
December 30, 2013 at 5:45 AMI love this! Going with the flow of life – not always easy but probably the best we can do. And dream big.
My 2 words are LET GO AND MOVE ON – not clinging on the past or on guilty feelings or regrets. Moving on and being the best version of me.
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 7:14 AMi loooooooooooooooove!!! this is your phrase of the year. It’s about closure too. YES
Miz says
December 30, 2013 at 6:59 AMI WAS SO SO SO NOT JOINING IN THIS YEAR!!!
until I changed my mind 😉
post coming…
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 7:02 AMoh i can’t wait…. stalking you till you post!
😉
Sarena (The Non-Dairy Queen) says
December 30, 2013 at 7:21 AMYou most definitely nurtured this year. You were a huge driving force in me changing my outlook. I’m so thankful for that. I’m not one that likes to wish time away, but I’m definitely ready for 2014. I’m just ready for a fresh start and a new outlook. Hhhhmmmm, I need a word. Purposeful. I want everything I say or do to have a positive purpose in my life. No more wandering or wondering through daily activities.
You make me think. I love that about you! xoxo
Tara Newman says
December 30, 2013 at 7:40 AMThose are two great words. I have used something similar as a mantra in the past. It works very well. I like your approach to “resolutions”. I don’t like the word resolution because it literally means to solve a problem. Like I am a problem or my life is a problem. I set simple goals. Just enough to provide direction, not enough to tax my already busy life. I see so many people heaping on New Year’s Goals and then wonder why they don’t come to fruition. Take it easy people 🙂 I can’t wait to see how your year shapes out and support you guys along the way! Go Cotters Go! Happy New Year to you both!
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat says
December 30, 2013 at 7:45 AMOoh I love this! I like your approach and the one (or two) word thing too – sort of like a theme for the year. My word for 2014 is going to be perseverance. I know there are going to be a lot of obstacles and things to work through, but I’m aiming to head into the new year with as many things in place to help me get through them. Can’t wait to see what you and Kiwi Cotter get up to in 2014!
Amanda @ .running with spoons. says
December 30, 2013 at 8:17 AMI’m not a resolution maker either, but I’m a big fan of having an overarching mantra/theme for the year. I’m still in the final decision process with mine, but I’ll be posting about it…. tomorrow 😛
Abby @ Change of Pace says
December 30, 2013 at 8:18 AMThat workout looks intense- I love your warning at the bottom of it!
You did a great job of nurturing this year, but I think you were already doing a pretty good job of it 🙂
I like your two words. Hope you don’t mind if I borrow them for the time being!
Linz @ Itz Linz says
December 30, 2013 at 8:20 AMcheers! 🙂
jobo says
December 30, 2013 at 8:36 AMI ADORE your two words for 2014 and almost more so, I LOVE that you really used your one word – nurture – and lived it, this year. I can’t wait to see what is in store for you both in 2014. I think being open and ready, no matter what is the ticket for you. Embrace what’s the come, whatever it may be. XOXO!
Sara @ LovingOnTheRun says
December 30, 2013 at 8:53 AMLove this! I have to agree with “being open.” My husband will be finishing up medical school this year, another year of racing, I am still in search of a job – so I’d say I too need to be open to what this year will bring us! I need to be flexible and supportive and ready for whatever this new year holds!
Heather (Where's the Beach) says
December 30, 2013 at 8:54 AMI think open and ready are perfect words. And vague is totally ok. You can plan all you want, but in the end, you never know where life will take you. So being open and ready makes you more prepared.
Allison @ Life's a Bowl says
December 30, 2013 at 8:56 AMI think your two words are awesome and it would be beneficial if more of us followed your lead. The word that immediately pops into my mind for 2014 is gracefulness. To approach every situation with grace and gratitude.
Jody - Fit at 56 says
December 30, 2013 at 9:03 AMLove the post Lindsay!!! I think that as long as you are doing what feels right for you than that is all that matters…. be open & ready sounds amazing!!!!
Me, I am just ready for a better year. 🙂
Laura Anderson says
December 30, 2013 at 9:09 AM2014 is going to be a great year for you and Kiwi, if you are going into it open and ready there is nothing more you can do. Ups and downs are part of life but being able to tackle those head on, and have awesome support by your side is incredible!
P.S. I am totally trying that workout today or tomorrow! I’ll TRY not to curse, but anything with burpees and all bets are usually off.
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says
December 30, 2013 at 9:10 AMI love it! I know I’m ready for whatever 2014 brings my way and I’m ready to work my butt off to make big things happen! Cheers, friend! 🙂
Heather Jarosh says
December 30, 2013 at 9:16 AMI love the idea of making a word for the year. I need to think of one for next year.
Brittany @ Delights and Delectables says
December 30, 2013 at 9:20 AMYou are such a wise woman… yes… I’m so open and ready! I’m ready for the BIG changes coming this year. Have I told you lately that you are a blessing to me?? xoxo
Morganne @ Nut Butter Runner says
December 30, 2013 at 9:41 AMJust when I thought your 2013 resolution couldn’t get any better! My friend, I LOVE this “resolution”. Your outlook is brilliant and inspiring! And that workout looks tough, definitely marking it to try!
Alex@Veggin' Out says
December 30, 2013 at 9:42 AMI definitely agree that you absolutely rocked your 2013 nurture goal! I’m sure you’re going to do just as awesome in the New Year. 🙂 I love the whole idea of making a single word resolution. Mine is going to be relax. I really stress myself out at school, to a point where it is not healthy so if I can learn to relieve that stress a bit, that would be one of the best things that I could do for myself. Happy New Year my friend!
Amanda @runtothefinish says
December 30, 2013 at 9:56 AMwohoooo for a word of the year, I swear it served me so well this year!! i’ll be sharing mine on Friday. I like nurture, it says so much!!!
Jan says
December 30, 2013 at 10:15 AMI love the idea of a “word” for the year instead of a bunch of goals. I’m guilty of trying to accomplish huge lists!
Tina Reale says
December 30, 2013 at 10:17 AMI love the “vagueness” of words for the year. It makes it easier to focus, in my opinion. You don’t have so many specific to-dos to get caught up in and can really put your intent where your heart truly is. You definitely focused on nurturing this past year (and I know I’m thankful for it, myself, as the wisdom and heart you share also nurture others). Can’t wait for more growth and God’s will to continue shining through you in 2014. Love you!
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 2:50 PMlove you friend! so much “growth” this year and i have a feeling next year too.
Danielle @ LabelsAreForTinCans says
December 30, 2013 at 11:05 AMI LOVE the idea of choosing one word! But I have yet to figure it out! Haha It seems like so much pressure to just choose one…
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 2:46 PMwell keep me posted! i bet it will be a good one!
Bre says
December 30, 2013 at 11:27 AMI’ve been thinking about the word this past week…and I’m so stuck. I *think* that embrace was my word last year, and I’m not sure if I did a great job of it. I think 2013 was more of “survive.” I’m curled up in bed sick so I’ve got lots of time to think about it.
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 2:45 PMsometimes surviving is the best option. I’ve had that year before!
Lisa @ RunWiki says
December 30, 2013 at 11:34 AMYou definitely lived your word “nuture” this year. I think my words for this year will be “recover” and “accept”. I think “accept” is my word every year! haha! That can be a tough one for me.
Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves says
December 30, 2013 at 11:55 AMThat looks killer!
I love the word “nurture” for 2013. I think I can totally relate to that, especially since I did the slow down challenge as well.
And honestly, “open” is probably the best word for 2014 for me as well. I have so many new things ahead of me (college!), and I just want to listen to what God’s plan is and what steps will lead me to doing His will.
Brittany @ Barr & Table says
December 30, 2013 at 12:58 PMIf my word would be based on that workout, I don’t think it would be appropriate to share 😉 But if it’s not based on that workout, my word would be “trust”.
I trusted my husband in making the right decision to move across the country and I don’t question that trust at all, but I need to learn to trust myself. I need to learn to trust my body. And I need to learn to trust my feelings and stop doubting myself.
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 2:38 PMhaha you can curse, i won’t tell.
and yes, love your WORD
Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says
December 30, 2013 at 1:11 PMOpen and ready sounds perfect for you two right now… allowing the possibilities to be what they will. I hope it all becomes clear to you this year where those big dreams will be taking you!
Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries says
December 30, 2013 at 1:53 PMI’m going to copy you on this one and use the OPEN & READY words too. There’s a lot of POTENTIAL for change in this upcoming year, but I really have no idea what that all looks like. So, like you, I’m going to be open and ready for what God wants for us. Love it.
Katie says
December 30, 2013 at 2:06 PMOh such a good post to finish off the year/ start the new week… my words will be “just let it happen”. I need to stop forcing things & just let them happen… I know God always has a plan & I just need to be patient to see what it is. (Another thing I need to work on) Instead of trying to hard to make something happen, I just need to let it be. Obviously I need “start” to allow anything to happen but instead of getting frustrated & upset, I need to remember God is always up to something even if he is being “silent”. Oops just wrote a novel!
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 2:44 PMoh he sure is. and it’s hard to listen when he’s silent, but it’s always for a reason.
Missy says
December 30, 2013 at 2:33 PMFunny– I just chose my word this morning and just like you — needed two. One of them is a carry over from last year because I am not done with that one yet.
I love yours.
Happy New Year!
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 2:44 PMokay, do share. pretty please
Ericka @ The Sweet Life says
December 30, 2013 at 2:36 PMI like the idea of a word to focus on. Creating a goal list is overwelming to me. On the spur of the moment, the word that comes to mind for me is “calm.” I have a tendency to overreacte or assume the worst and get myself overly anxious at work and at home. Perhaps if I focus on the “calm” I can retrain myself to stay that way. Great idea!
Kim K. says
December 30, 2013 at 3:51 PMohhh good post… hmmm my word to focus on in 2014…can i pick two? CALM and CONTROL. with all the craziness going on with work and life, i need to learn how to stay calm. and that i cannot control the uncontrollable. let fate lie (or is it lay) where it feels like it.
Meg @ The Compost Cook says
December 30, 2013 at 4:11 PMWhat an inspirational post. OPEN AND READY…love it. I think we word for 2014 will be FLUID…I’ll be sure to write and reflect about it tomorrow.
xoxo
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says
December 30, 2013 at 4:12 PMOhhhh… I am anti-resolution, but a word is a good one! I’ll need to think on that. Don’t worry, it will be appropriately corny. 😉
Christine @ Love, Life, Surf says
December 30, 2013 at 4:18 PMYou my friend have done an amazing job in the nurture department not only for yourself, James, family and friends but also for all of us who read your words. Or at least I constantly feel nurtured by your words and support. I love your two words for 2014. I’ve been thinking a lot about mine and in a similar vein, my word is DO. I want to do and act and move things forward and I’m excited about that. xoxo
Abby @ BackAtSquareZero says
December 30, 2013 at 4:37 PMfocused
I have felt very unfocused this year.
Julie says
December 30, 2013 at 4:37 PMLove. Love myself and others. That’s the word, and it was easy for some reason. It’s also totally and completely different than any word I’ve ever picked before!
Mollie K says
December 30, 2013 at 5:11 PMI think my words for 2014 will be focus and acceptance. Focus meaning to be in the present..focus on myself and my needs, focus on the task at hand, focus on my last year of grad school, focus on the present, focus on loving others etc. etc. Acceptance meaning to love myself both inside and out as well as those around me for who they are. I love your idea of being open. You are inspiring Lindsay! And that is an understatement 🙂
Arman @ thebigmansworld says
December 30, 2013 at 5:39 PMI love the notion of having a word or in your case for 2014, 2 words- especially ones which such big meanings behind them. I’m not sure what to pick but maybe embrace…embrace change, embrace new people, embrace my capabilities.
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 10:34 PMi like it! and i’m excited for you, BIG things coming/changing in the BIG man’s world.
Kim says
December 30, 2013 at 5:40 PMI love your word(s) for 2014!! Based on some recent experiences I’m thinking I need to make my word “available.” (not for hire or anything creepy!!)
And, that workout does look tough – can’t wait to try it out!!!
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 10:35 PMhaha i totally get that, and i think it’s perfect!!
Heather @ Better With Veggies says
December 30, 2013 at 6:58 PMI haven’t decided on my word for 2014, but I loved having that as a place of focus for 2013. Not sure I got Balance 100% this year, but I think I made progress (success!!)
LCCotter says
December 30, 2013 at 10:36 PMkeep me posted on when you do! i have a feeling it will be a good one, as always.
Kim Englert says
December 30, 2013 at 7:00 PMWhat an inspirational post as always looking forward to more
Melissa @ Treats With a Twist says
December 30, 2013 at 11:08 PMReading your words made me almost cry! I feel like they hit so close to home! I hope the best for you and your family in the year to come 🙂
LCCotter says
December 31, 2013 at 7:18 AMoh well let’s cry together! get it all out there, then go eat some of your grainfree thumb prints. hehe
Brooke says
December 31, 2013 at 12:13 AMI think there are many times that life SHOULD be vague. Allows for less of us, more of God. Gives Him room to work. (Totally preaching to myself here, too. Um, can we say control freak here?!) And my word for 2014 is “intentional”.
Xoxo
Jill @ Fitness, Health and Happiness says
December 31, 2013 at 7:16 AMI’ve chosen One Word every year for the past 7 years. It usually just hits me and I just know. Not this year. It’s the last day and I still don’t know what my word will be. When I do I will let you know 🙂
Wait. Maybe it will be determined. Nah. Keep thinking. It will come.
Christine (Merf) says
December 31, 2013 at 7:21 AMYour words are perfect. I need to figure mine out. My new year’s resolution is to exercise. I want to do regular yoga to try to get control over my stress levels, and I want to get outside and walk or run whenever I have a chance. My word could be “exercise” but that doesn’t sound quite right. It’s more like “stop making excuses, do what you can, and make it a priority” 🙂
LCCotter says
December 31, 2013 at 7:49 AMmaybe your word should be intentional or practice? You can do it!
She Rocks Fitness says
December 31, 2013 at 11:43 AMSo many words are going through my congested head right now, but I am thinking it maybe a phrase…”GO BIG OR GO HOME!” It’s been 6 months since I’ve been here and it is time to take it up a notch. XOXO
LCCotter says
December 31, 2013 at 4:56 PMi feel ya! get it girl, it’s go time!
Cori @ olivetorun says
December 31, 2013 at 1:00 PMI just wrote about my word for 2014… I chose FEARLESS. 🙂 Love ya friend.
LCCotter says
December 31, 2013 at 4:54 PMyou have always been a fearless leader to me! xxoo
Running Hutch says
January 1, 2014 at 1:35 PMI’m so with you. I think J and I have spent the last few months trying to pry ourselves open and mentally prepare for “What’s Next”. We’ve felt like God has some new plans, and we’re not sure what it is, but we are just trying to focus on being ready as you said. Here we go!