Happy New Year! As we step into this fresh chapter, I wanted to share something deeply personal from a number of years ago that I learned which has changed my life and continues to guide me into this new year.
As the new year begins, I’ve been reflecting on the lessons I’ve learned and the growth I’ve experienced over the past number of years. One practice that has profoundly impacted me is choosing a single word to focus on for the year—a word that serves as a guide, an anchor, and a source of inspiration acting as a compass all year long to help direct my thoughts, emotions, actions, and intentions.
The very first time I did this exercise, the word I chose was Courageous.
At first glance it seemed like a simple concept, but it quickly became a profound teacher.
At first, I thought courage was about grand, bold acts.
But as the year unfolded and I began to embody “I AM COURAGEOUS“, I realized it often shows up in the quiet moments: speaking my truth when it feels vulnerable, choosing to step into the unknown, or simply taking the next small step when the path ahead isn’t clear.
Living into the word Courageous taught me to trust myself more deeply. It encouraged me to face fears head-on, not with the absence of fear, but with a willingness to move forward despite it.
I learned that courage doesn’t always roar; sometimes, it whispers, You’ve got this. Keep going.
There were moments when living this word felt very uncomfortable—like when I learned that I’m a powerful creator, and I am 100% responsible for all of the experiences I’ve ever had, am creating now, and will create in the future. Initially, it was very difficult for me to accept that I was 100% responsible. It took a hefty dose of courage to humble myself just enough to begin accepting that reality.
But I realized in not doing so, I was actually creating the same painful experiences over and over again for myself.
Ironically, I soon realized that I was the common denominator in all of those repeating experiences. With that, I had to let go of familiar patterns or stand firm in my boundaries of who I am choosing to become.
But those moments also became the most rewarding, teaching me resilience, authenticity, and the value of showing up fully for my life. It demonstrated my power within of being able to heal myself without blaming others and expecting the people and circumstances outside of myself to change in order for me to feel happy or whole again.
It’s now eight years later, and as I step into this new year, the lessons of becoming couragous remain with me. They remind me that each of us has untapped strength, waiting to be called upon when we need it most.
If you’re thinking of choosing a word to guide you this year, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it.
If you were to ask your heart, “what is my word for this year?“, what would the word be?
Here’s to a year filled with growth, discovery, and courageous steps forward!
Warmly,
Dom Campbell
Center Director
Quantum Light Wellness Center
