My word for 2023 was prosperity. Early in the year I learned my rent was going up $600/month. I moved, which wasn’t cheap, but the whole thing made me think about what does prosperity mean to me. Dictionary definition is “a long period of being successful or thriving.” And I am thriving. I’m very close to retirement and I reorganized a few things having to do with money, but to me prosperity is less about money and more about creating a sustained sense of gratitude for what I do have, with a focus on self-care, taking care of my home and genuine connection or reconnection with others. I’ll be taking that last forward into 2024 with my new word: community.
I had a similar price hike, $400, almost $800 more from when I first moved in 3 years ago. I ended up paying a little more for a new rental, but it ended up being in a quieter, larger, and nicer place, and I locked in for 21 months so I knew I’d be secure. Hang in there!
I had plans to save money after my car was paid off, but nope a guy missed a stop sign and totaled my car and I had to get a new to me car. Then I had plans for settlement money but then other things happened. 2024 has got to be a better year
My 2023 word was Energy. I wanted to focus on keeping a positive, motivated mindset, and working on my nutrition, fitness and other habits for physical energy. Then my mom died in January, and, as estate holder, I spent most of the year cycling through overwhelm and shutting down. I think next year has to be something like comfort or gratitude. Finding happiness in what I do have.
The lesson I learned this year is that life is short. Several people I knew died suddenly this year, all 50 and under. It was a huge wake-up call to stop putting off things until "someday." We all hope to live to an old age, but we are not promised tomorrow.
Anyone who receives the hand of friendship from you is a very fortunate person indeed. Those who fail to recognise that gift are obviously missing something special or just not ready. That you share yourself with the world - the way you lift others - what an achievement Laura. I think life does take us by the hand and it does indeed work out. ❤🌷😘👏
Believe it or not; when you watch a you tuber week after week etc. Especially when they are talking about life or something similar. Their true personality will eventually come through. So my thoughts of someone not returning your messages it’s their loss!! I’m a lot older than you and continue to make mistakes but you won’t ever make the same mistakes twice. I too suffered from postnatal depression. But it was actually with my second child. I still feel guilty to this day that I didn’t feel the love for my son that I should have when he was born. Much later thanks to the internet I found out it was due to a traumatic birth. Remember we have all fuc-ed up in life but you have learned these lessons to help your daughter when she’s older not to make the same mistakes herself x
I am crap at friendships. I actually did get a few closer friends the past two years that I have connected with more and done things with. Hung out went places. With or without kids. It has been really nice. And they reach out to me which is great because I am always down for people being an introvert but my family/ life gets in the way so it is nice to have people who are good about reaching out because I have no sense of time and am horrid about it. No matter how delightful the person is. So people not reaching out back isn't an indication about how they feel about you. ❤ They just may be a chaotic mess of a person. 😜
I had a big plan to declutter and clean deeply a room in my basement today. The universe had other ideas. As we we all getting ready to get out the door this morning my very large cat, Jack, decided to leap off the cat tower to jump behind the TV. My back was turned and I heard this huge thud/crash. Goodbye to the TV( it was old) and Jack has hid out the rest of the day. So much for the basement. But I have a brand new TV and the living room is rearranged and is so clean. You just have to roll with life. I'm still laughing.
It’s so refreshing to hear there is someone else who doesn’t do hot drinks. I am a water girl to quench my thirst. I just don’t get the whole I have to have coffee to start my day either thing. 😄
Wise words to slow down. Life goes fast and when you are overly busy, you miss it. Time perception goes out the window and that old saying that "Time flies" is very much true when you are not paying attention. Slowing down allows you to observe your moments.
Anyone would be lucky to sit down with you and have a conversation. You’re such a warm, wonderful person! The person or people that didn’t take you up on your offer, you wouldn’t want as friends anyway. Like I’ve said before, if we lived closer, I know that we would be friends. Your friend up the highway, Lynette.
I quit making resolutions or goals for the new year. I found I would over exaggerate my expectations in my head. And in doing so I merely created drama and stress. I still make plans to do things things. Some planning is good. But I no longer make up expectations I just enjoy the people and the events while it happens. I’m finding that taking things day by day can be wonderful, peaceful, chaotic, challenging and miraculous all at the same time and that is ok. Just embrace the messy and let it be. Besides I don’t really remember the times that went smooth as silk. Those are just blurry memories. But I remember the ones where some minor thing happened that may have been frustrating or even embarrassing at the time, but now they are endearing or laughable and bring a happiness to my heart.
I had horrible births. I had postpartum psychosis. Horrific. My children had a rough start in life because of me. I carried so much guilt and shame. Now I do what's called a "living amends", wherein I am a loving, kind and stable mother to my children. Daily I make silent amends through my actions.
Thank you for being so honest and open. I can really relate to the ppd and I’m a slow processor too🙈. After conversations in the comfort of home I always know what I should have asked or said😄
I had post natal depression after my 1st daughter 16 years ago, I still feel guilty and raw from it.. i dont think it ever goes away but you can try to make peace with it ❤❤❤❤❤❤
I live by that rule of leaving a room in better shape than when I entered it, even if it's just straightening up the couch or hand dusting a small area. There was some pretty profound stuff that happened in your life this year and I too have been diagnosed with a chronic condition that required acceptance. You've been a big proponent of goal setting and productivity so your word for 2024 is a good one to rest or pivot when needed.
Pause is a great word and a good reminder! I would say Letting Go was my theme for this year. Letting go of things that should have been or gone a certain way. I appreciate the forgiveness you felt for yourself. I’m still working on that.
I've never thought about having a word for the new year. But I can say that 2023 was also about forgiveness and acceptance for me, which I consider a huge accomplishment. I was able to stop when I felt hurt, and analyze what was really happening, how my expectations of the other person were actually unreasonable. I'm better able to look at those feelings of hurt truly as an opportunity to grow from a challenge. I never could have done that before. And I'm 69! So I'm feeling very proud of myself :)
OMG your PPD story - so relatable! I have an 11 year old and felt the same way with her, it was rough for a long time. I pulled her out of public school to homeschool in 2020 and in spring of 2021 things FINALLY felt MANAGEABLE. Then I got pregnant and now have an absolutely feral toddler and it’s kind of Deja vu. I hope I don’t have to wait 6 more years to feel ok again. It’s just an exhausting time and I am now 2 and through as far as kids go 😂 so all that was just to say - you’re definitely not alone when it comes to struggling with motherhood - ESPECIALLY in those early (and not so early) years, it’s so hard! Why don’t they offer training for this??? 😂😭
I am like you in that my regrets are times I didn't speak up. I process later but in the moment I am silent. I envy those who can react and say what they think right when something questionable happens.
I've never had a word or a phrase of the year 🤷 ... not for any particular reason really, just never have. I learned decades ago (I'm 65) to NOT make "New Years Resolutions" because that was a surefire kiss of death... Anything that I may have had chosen to start (or stop) on any given January 1st that was labeled a "resolution" tanked by January 15th at the latest. So... having said that, I shall carry on with what I've been practicing for just the last few weeks, which is to "wait". Very similar to your "pause" with the added example of not cutting people off mid conversation because I think I know what they're going to say or to - I'm ashamed to say this - correct them without giving them a chance to make their point. 😬😞 I'm also waiting before I commit to things... The phrase "If you need an answer right now, the answer is no". Funny how when I say that, NObody needs an answer "right now". 🤔😁 I do enjoy learning life with you, Laura, and I'm always happy to seeing you pop up in my feed with a new vid - or heck, even an old one! Hugs from the southern California desert, MK 🤗❤️🌵❤️🤗
Thank you for sharing your reflections and your wisdom. What you are saying really speaks to me. You're a lovely, kind, smart lady and your channel is awesome!! 😊
I don't drink coffee either. Acceptance, and forgiveness are things that I need to do, but I don't really know how. I am very emotional and it takes me a long time to process things too. Thank you for sharing about all that.... Best wishes for an amazing 2024.
Been following you for a few years now, and really enjoying your thoughts and perspectives. Have to say that this video really hit home - so spot on, maybe one of your best?! Or do I just really love plants? 🤔🤣 (I name mine too) All the best to you Laura!
Maybe finding routines to ease my life. I have two little kids. They grow, their needs are changing constantly. At the same time my work situation changed at least four times in the last three years and it will change in February again (coworker is retiring and I will add a few hours and taking her tasks). It would be nice if I manage to implement a few more routines in terms of meal prepping, exercising, house work to make the changes that are constantly coming more manageable.
What an inspiring conversation! I believe the Universe did give a lot of us healing, acceptance, & forgiveness... which creates the space for a "Full Heart" indeed ❤️♾️❤️
On a small scale I really felt this this weekend. I had a list of things I wanted to get done and I woke up Saturday morning to a nasty migraine that caused me to throw up and then spend the day sleeping. Still had a slight headache today and haven't done much of anything. I'm taking it as the Universe's way of telling me I've been doing too much.
Wow. Your honesty and openness was lovely and really spoke to me. Laura we’ve had very similar years this year - in the last 5 years or so I have finally been diagnosed with a chronic illness and as AuDHD and it has really started to turn my life around. I always knew there was something wrong/different about me but because I was made to feel lazy and a sh*t person because of my size I just felt worse and worse about myself. Having these diagnoses means I have been able to go back through my life and look at things with a totally different outlook and it’s amazing the difference it makes. I’ve worked hard with my counsellor on this and now I feel that I am really in a cusp of ‘new life’. I have a new business which is going so very well it’s exciting, I feel comfortable and happy in my own skin and I am even able to understand that not everyone likes me .. and I am ok with that!! I don’t have a word or phrase for next year yet - nothing quite encapsulates everything I’m feeling about my immediate future, but I do know that I am going to be LIVING a lot! ❤
Aw, I'm so thrilled you were able to get a diagnosis and a better understanding of yourself. It's amazing how things can seem so chaotic until one puzzle piece is found and everything suddenly "clicks" into place. I think your word will be DISCOVERY (or REDISCOVERY). 💖
I believe forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself. I struggle with it, too, and consider myself a work in progress. I also find it difficult to reach out to make and nurture friendships, though I made several efforts this year to move outside my comfort zone. Thank you for sharing and best wishes to you for 2024!
I heard somewhere - let go of the experience/situation but keep the lesson.my word for 2024 is similar in meaning to pause - breathe. Take time to be in the moment and enjoy what is in front of me in the moment.
Thanks for sharing your reflections. I really enjoy stepping back and considering what has happened and what I feel called to focus on for the year ahead. I've done a version of your yearly review for a few years now, and gotten a lot from the process. This year my 'theme' was - ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life. It was still an incredibly busy year, with two little kids, and expecting our third this Christmas. Mentally, though, I really have slowed down (in a good way!), and I don't feel that same sense of rushing that I did previously. I'm starting to consider the year ahead, and I'm excited to see where God's calling me in this season. Thanks again Laura, and Merry Christmas!
I realy enjoy your videos, Laura! I have been subscribed for many years already. Your videos are well thought out. This video was something special, thank you very much for your honesty. You are wonderful woman. ❤
My word is going to be BREATHE. I've had both physical and mental health issues this year. I started talking with a psychologist, who pointed out to me that I was keeping my chest very tight and that was making it hard for me to really properly breathe. I won't try to say that I have had a miraculous recovery since I started taking time to focus on my breathing, but it has at least helped get the little hamster in my brain to stop running on that wheel 24/7. Just keep breathing, just keep breathing.....
My word for 2023 was "organize" and it was successful in a lot of ways. I worked with a professional organizer, got on better ADHD meds, and let myself experiment with my journal/planner/calendar practice so that I've got a much better system in place. It was definitely hard fighting against my own nature at times, so my word for 2024 is "commitment." I want to be able to follow through with the habits I'm trying to build, and I also want to get better at saying no to things when I've already said yes to things that deserve my full attention.
I loved this, because you truly have wise and insightful things to say! No rambling at all. My year was defined by an overwhelming chronic illness with random horrible symptoms surprising me, every time I got my hopes up about signs of recovery. So I relate 1:1 to your title 😅 I guess my word for 2024 will be TRANSITION. Shape my life in a way that is fulfilling AND does not drain me mentally and physically. As for your weekly creative production cycle: I hear a lot of (successful) RUclipsrs say that outsourcing the editing of their videos changed their lives. Because it frees up so much time, that you can then spend on the creative writing part, or whatever it is that you truly love to do. (Or simply on pausing!)
I hear you on the chronic illness journey. Every time I had some hope that I'd found an answer, I seemed to be thrown back to square one. Hang in there! I tried outsourcing editing earlier this year and had a really bad experience with it so it put me off for a long time. I think I'll be ready to try again soon, with a lot more experience of what to look out for!
@@HowToGYST Thank you so much for answering! ❤ Yeah the challenge is to find the right people to outsource tasks to... Meanwhile trying to stay on your feet, health wise... "Hang in there" is applicable on many levels 💪🏼😅 I'm really glad that you seem to have found the way up! Wishing you a Merry Christmas! 🎄
I don't have my word yet, but it's going to have something to do with going deeper into my practices. I don't enjoy the consequences when I neglect them.
My word for the year is "schedule." My plan is to have a question for each month related to that theme. 2023 was one chaotic mess. My routines, my systems, my comfort zones, etc in all areas of my life got thrown out the window when I got "life-checked" in 2021 when my Mom went home and added to the already overwhelming changes that have steadily taken place over the last several years without a break. The big (and hopefully final, I don't need to STOP, but I do need to "PAUSE") change for 2023 was losing my church. So, in order to take my life back, I need some consistency, and "schedule" will create that. The first step is creating the "schedule" without becoming so rigid that I become a slave to it, and the flip side of that is developing the self discipline to actually follow and stick to it. (ADHD/OCD brain here, so the struggle is real) So, my question for January is "am I sticking to my schedule?" This will be the filter through which incompleted tasks, overwhelm, lack of focus, hyperfocus, etc will be run to determine the need for adjustments/modifications. The question for February will be "does it fit in my schedule?" This will help me focus on doing what needs to be done in my kingdom for my sanity before committing to managing something from someone else's kingdom. Etc....
Ooh, best of luck! I like how you're acknowledging upfront that it doesn't have to be rigid. Allowing for some flexibility is what will increase your chances of success! Here's to a better year in 2024!
My word for this year was "Lighten" and I meant that in a variety of ways of lightening my load and lighting my way. Some examples are: I wanted to declutter and organize my house better, I wanted to lose weight, and I wanted to work on the literal lighting (decorative lighting) in my study. I've made good progress (some areas better than others) and just want to continue on this journey rather than changing my focus to something else. For 2024, my word is "Persist" to continue on this journey even though it's taking longer (and with a few obstacles) than I would like.
OMG Laura thank you sooooo much for this video!❤ The timing is perfect and you have no idea how this video is helping me in more ways than one.❤ God bless you and cheers from Ontario Canada. ❤
I didn't have a word/theme for 2023, but in hindsight, it would have been "plot twist" 🤣 Every time I thought I knew what was coming, or felt that something was finally resolved. Plot twist.
Oh Laura, I wish I good give you a hug!! Or a phone call and tell you that life is not fair. I been there 2. This year really sucked for me. I haven’t even thought about next year. I’m just trying to survive this one. 😢
Also though..... Intervening isn't always safe. And also it is good to process stuff. That so a good quality. But also we don't need to speak up for every thing. Often people say or do things that aren't in alignment with our values. And sometimes if it is with people we know it may not be the place or time immediately by to address something. We will not live our life perfectly. We are always learning and growing and our perspectives always change. That saying "Hurt people, hurt people." Is something that has come up for me. It is hard when I see people that are just mean spirited or into the drama. I just don't get it. There so no need for that. I find spreading a different perspective with those that may hear it can go farther. I am great at compassion and forgiveness and honesty. I don't do many conventional things well but things of the heart are my jam. It's actually become a thing that has been way more of a gift over the years then I had previously given credit to it.
Yes, I do try to remember that you can't always change someone's mind on something so even if you do speak up, it'll likely fall on deaf ears. I think most of my regrets revolve around not speaking up in someone's defence so that they maybe felt alone or like no-one supported them. I did speak up in one case where someone said something vile to a teenage girl. I looked him straight in the eyes and told him never to speak to her like that again. One of my proudest moments. But I feel like they're few and far between.
Thanks Laura, I enjoy your content. After decluttering my home 2020-21, I Set myself a challenge to declutter my mind by reading through the whole Bible. Didn’t happen in 2021, or 2022 as intended…plenty of pausing there! But this year in August suddenly the motivation to Bible journal, and deep dive the Word took hold. I’m now on track to finish by end of January, am so thankful I was able to do it.
I'm really happy that you had a great year. It's important to forgive ourselves because most of the time we are doing our best with the knowledge we have at that time. I also have to say the 'pause' idea can be very revealing personally. I've had a year like that this year. I love being busy at work, I work as a cook and when I'm not working, I'm quite chilled out and sometimes I relax and just listen to music for hours, even if there are practical things I could be getting done. I will make a note and do it in a day or two. It can be very revealing personally to 'pause'. I hope you enjoy it. Ps. I love your videos.
I love having a word for the year but for the life of me I can’t remember what 2023 was …. I think that says everything you need to know about where my head was at last dec to about June this year! Very excited to think about 2024. Interesting you mentioned about anger and chronic pain, have you heard of tms? I’m researching right now for chronic fatigue.
Dan Buglio does great work on TMS on his channel "Pain Free You". His daily videos have helped me immensely this year, overcoming long covid (which resembles chronic fatigue a lot).
My word for 2023 was prosperity. Early in the year I learned my rent was going up $600/month. I moved, which wasn’t cheap, but the whole thing made me think about what does prosperity mean to me. Dictionary definition is “a long period of being successful or thriving.” And I am thriving. I’m very close to retirement and I reorganized a few things having to do with money, but to me prosperity is less about money and more about creating a sustained sense of gratitude for what I do have, with a focus on self-care, taking care of my home and genuine connection or reconnection with others. I’ll be taking that last forward into 2024 with my new word: community.
Beautiful! And wow, that’s an insane rental price hike! 😳
I had a similar price hike, $400, almost $800 more from when I first moved in 3 years ago. I ended up paying a little more for a new rental, but it ended up being in a quieter, larger, and nicer place, and I locked in for 21 months so I knew I’d be secure. Hang in there!
I had plans to save money after my car was paid off, but nope a guy missed a stop sign and totaled my car and I had to get a new to me car. Then I had plans for settlement money but then other things happened. 2024 has got to be a better year
Oh I’m sorry to hear that. I know someone who was in a similar accident. A hit and run. Hoping for a better year for you in 2024!
My 2023 word was Energy. I wanted to focus on keeping a positive, motivated mindset, and working on my nutrition, fitness and other habits for physical energy.
Then my mom died in January, and, as estate holder, I spent most of the year cycling through overwhelm and shutting down.
I think next year has to be something like comfort or gratitude. Finding happiness in what I do have.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I wish you comfort and healing in 2024. 💖
The lesson I learned this year is that life is short. Several people I knew died suddenly this year, all 50 and under. It was a huge wake-up call to stop putting off things until "someday." We all hope to live to an old age, but we are not promised tomorrow.
Anyone who receives the hand of friendship from you is a very fortunate person indeed. Those who fail to recognise that gift are obviously missing something special or just not ready. That you share yourself with the world - the way you lift others - what an achievement Laura. I think life does take us by the hand and it does indeed work out. ❤🌷😘👏
Believe it or not; when you watch a you tuber week after week etc. Especially when they are talking about life or something similar. Their true personality will eventually come through. So my thoughts of someone not returning your messages it’s their loss!!
I’m a lot older than you and continue to make mistakes but you won’t ever make the same mistakes twice.
I too suffered from postnatal depression. But it was actually with my second child. I still feel guilty to this day that I didn’t feel the love for my son that I should have when he was born. Much later thanks to the internet I found out it was due to a traumatic birth.
Remember we have all fuc-ed up in life but you have learned these lessons to help your daughter when she’s older not to make the same mistakes herself x
I am crap at friendships. I actually did get a few closer friends the past two years that I have connected with more and done things with. Hung out went places. With or without kids. It has been really nice. And they reach out to me which is great because I am always down for people being an introvert but my family/ life gets in the way so it is nice to have people who are good about reaching out because I have no sense of time and am horrid about it. No matter how delightful the person is. So people not reaching out back isn't an indication about how they feel about you. ❤ They just may be a chaotic mess of a person. 😜
I had a big plan to declutter and clean deeply a room in my basement today. The universe had other ideas. As we we all getting ready to get out the door this morning my very large cat, Jack, decided to leap off the cat tower to jump behind the TV. My back was turned and I heard this huge thud/crash. Goodbye to the TV( it was old) and Jack has hid out the rest of the day.
So much for the basement. But I have a brand new TV and the living room is rearranged and is so clean.
You just have to roll with life. I'm still laughing.
It’s so refreshing to hear there is someone else who doesn’t do hot drinks. I am a water girl to quench my thirst. I just don’t get the whole I have to have coffee to start my day either thing. 😄
Water girl here too! I never used to like the taste of it but it's pretty much all I drink these days.
It warms my heart to hear that someone else is not big in hot drinks , people always make it seem strange
Cold Drinks Club!
Wise words to slow down. Life goes fast and when you are overly busy, you miss it. Time perception goes out the window and that old saying that "Time flies" is very much true when you are not paying attention. Slowing down allows you to observe your moments.
Anyone would be lucky to sit down with you and have a conversation. You’re such a warm, wonderful person! The person or people that didn’t take you up on your offer, you wouldn’t want as friends anyway. Like I’ve said before, if we lived closer, I know that we would be friends. Your friend up the highway, Lynette.
I quit making resolutions or goals for the new year. I found I would over exaggerate my expectations in my head. And in doing so I merely created drama and stress. I still make plans to do things things. Some planning is good. But I no longer make up expectations I just enjoy the people and the events while it happens. I’m finding that taking things day by day can be wonderful, peaceful, chaotic, challenging and miraculous all at the same time and that is ok. Just embrace the messy and let it be.
Besides I don’t really remember the times that went smooth as silk. Those are just blurry memories. But I remember the ones where some minor thing happened that may have been frustrating or even embarrassing at the time, but now they are endearing or laughable and bring a happiness to my heart.
Oh yeah, there’s no fun in everything going smoothly. 😂
I had horrible births. I had postpartum psychosis. Horrific. My children had a rough start in life because of me. I carried so much guilt and shame. Now I do what's called a "living amends", wherein I am a loving, kind and stable mother to my children. Daily I make silent amends through my actions.
What a wonderful perspective. I'm so sorry you went through that though. x
Thank you for being so honest and open. I can really relate to the ppd and I’m a slow processor too🙈. After conversations in the comfort of home I always know what I should have asked or said😄
I had post natal depression after my 1st daughter 16 years ago, I still feel guilty and raw from it.. i dont think it ever goes away but you can try to make peace with it ❤❤❤❤❤❤
I try to embrace the fact that the universe is a wonderful place even if it doesn't go my way. 🥰😄
I live by that rule of leaving a room in better shape than when I entered it, even if it's just straightening up the couch or hand dusting a small area. There was some pretty profound stuff that happened in your life this year and I too have been diagnosed with a chronic condition that required acceptance. You've been a big proponent of goal setting and productivity so your word for 2024 is a good one to rest or pivot when needed.
PLEASE do trifle talk sometime !!! 😂
I just don’t know if I could eat and talk. 😂 And the trifle would be all melted by the time I was done rambling. 🤣
Pause is a great word and a good reminder! I would say Letting Go was my theme for this year. Letting go of things that should have been or gone a certain way. I appreciate the forgiveness you felt for yourself. I’m still working on that.
I've never thought about having a word for the new year. But I can say that 2023 was also about forgiveness and acceptance for me, which I consider a huge accomplishment. I was able to stop when I felt hurt, and analyze what was really happening, how my expectations of the other person were actually unreasonable. I'm better able to look at those feelings of hurt truly as an opportunity to grow from a challenge. I never could have done that before. And I'm 69! So I'm feeling very proud of myself :)
OMG your PPD story - so relatable! I have an 11 year old and felt the same way with her, it was rough for a long time. I pulled her out of public school to homeschool in 2020 and in spring of 2021 things FINALLY felt MANAGEABLE. Then I got pregnant and now have an absolutely feral toddler and it’s kind of Deja vu. I hope I don’t have to wait 6 more years to feel ok again. It’s just an exhausting time and I am now 2 and through as far as kids go 😂 so all that was just to say - you’re definitely not alone when it comes to struggling with motherhood - ESPECIALLY in those early (and not so early) years, it’s so hard! Why don’t they offer training for this??? 😂😭
We are supposed to help eachother that’s why it’s important to have community ❤ it takes a village
@@TreasureForeverOfficial yes well not everyone has that.
Sending you so much love!
I am like you in that my regrets are times I didn't speak up. I process later but in the moment I am silent. I envy those who can react and say what they think right when something questionable happens.
I've never had a word or a phrase of the year 🤷 ... not for any particular reason really, just never have. I learned decades ago (I'm 65) to NOT make "New Years Resolutions" because that was a surefire kiss of death... Anything that I may have had chosen to start (or stop) on any given January 1st that was labeled a "resolution" tanked by January 15th at the latest. So... having said that, I shall carry on with what I've been practicing for just the last few weeks, which is to "wait". Very similar to your "pause" with the added example of not cutting people off mid conversation because I think I know what they're going to say or to - I'm ashamed to say this - correct them without giving them a chance to make their point. 😬😞 I'm also waiting before I commit to things... The phrase "If you need an answer right now, the answer is no". Funny how when I say that, NObody needs an answer "right now". 🤔😁
I do enjoy learning life with you, Laura, and I'm always happy to seeing you pop up in my feed with a new vid - or heck, even an old one! Hugs from the southern California desert, MK 🤗❤️🌵❤️🤗
You have lived here for 6 years!!!! Man. It does not feel that long.
Tell me about it! And yet in other ways it feels much longer!
Thank you for sharing your reflections and your wisdom. What you are saying really speaks to me. You're a lovely, kind, smart lady and your channel is awesome!! 😊
Thank you so much!
I don't drink coffee either.
Acceptance, and forgiveness are things that I need to do, but I don't really know how.
I am very emotional and it takes me a long time to process things too.
Thank you for sharing about all that.... Best wishes for an amazing 2024.
I wish I could tell you how! For me something just clicked this year. I am very grateful but have no idea how or why it happened.
Been following you for a few years now, and really enjoying your thoughts and perspectives. Have to say that this video really hit home - so spot on, maybe one of your best?! Or do I just really love plants? 🤔🤣 (I name mine too) All the best to you Laura!
Aw, thank you so much! I really appreciate that.
Maybe finding routines to ease my life. I have two little kids. They grow, their needs are changing constantly. At the same time my work situation changed at least four times in the last three years and it will change in February again (coworker is retiring and I will add a few hours and taking her tasks). It would be nice if I manage to implement a few more routines in terms of meal prepping, exercising, house work to make the changes that are constantly coming more manageable.
What an inspiring conversation! I believe the Universe did give a lot of us healing, acceptance, & forgiveness... which creates the space for a "Full Heart" indeed ❤️♾️❤️
Yes! Maybe in a roundabout, unintentional way I did actually achieve it!
On a small scale I really felt this this weekend. I had a list of things I wanted to get done and I woke up Saturday morning to a nasty migraine that caused me to throw up and then spend the day sleeping. Still had a slight headache today and haven't done much of anything. I'm taking it as the Universe's way of telling me I've been doing too much.
Hope you feel loads better soon. x
I felt change in priority, grew in faith and loved and forgave my biggest enemy. 2024 its hope
Wow. Your honesty and openness was lovely and really spoke to me. Laura we’ve had very similar years this year - in the last 5 years or so I have finally been diagnosed with a chronic illness and as AuDHD and it has really started to turn my life around.
I always knew there was something wrong/different about me but because I was made to feel lazy and a sh*t person because of my size I just felt worse and worse about myself.
Having these diagnoses means I have been able to go back through my life and look at things with a totally different outlook and it’s amazing the difference it makes. I’ve worked hard with my counsellor on this and now I feel that I am really in a cusp of ‘new life’. I have a new business which is going so very well it’s exciting, I feel comfortable and happy in my own skin and I am even able to understand that not everyone likes me .. and I am ok with that!!
I don’t have a word or phrase for next year yet - nothing quite encapsulates everything I’m feeling about my immediate future, but I do know that I am going to be LIVING a lot! ❤
Aw, I'm so thrilled you were able to get a diagnosis and a better understanding of yourself. It's amazing how things can seem so chaotic until one puzzle piece is found and everything suddenly "clicks" into place. I think your word will be DISCOVERY (or REDISCOVERY). 💖
I believe forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself. I struggle with it, too, and consider myself a work in progress. I also find it difficult to reach out to make and nurture friendships, though I made several efforts this year to move outside my comfort zone. Thank you for sharing and best wishes to you for 2024!
Silly moods are great!
I heard somewhere - let go of the experience/situation but keep the lesson.my word for 2024 is similar in meaning to pause - breathe. Take time to be in the moment and enjoy what is in front of me in the moment.
Thanks for sharing your reflections. I really enjoy stepping back and considering what has happened and what I feel called to focus on for the year ahead. I've done a version of your yearly review for a few years now, and gotten a lot from the process.
This year my 'theme' was - ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life. It was still an incredibly busy year, with two little kids, and expecting our third this Christmas. Mentally, though, I really have slowed down (in a good way!), and I don't feel that same sense of rushing that I did previously. I'm starting to consider the year ahead, and I'm excited to see where God's calling me in this season.
Thanks again Laura, and Merry Christmas!
I realy enjoy your videos, Laura! I have been subscribed for many years already. Your videos are well thought out. This video was something special, thank you very much for your honesty. You are wonderful woman. ❤
My word is going to be BREATHE. I've had both physical and mental health issues this year. I started talking with a psychologist, who pointed out to me that I was keeping my chest very tight and that was making it hard for me to really properly breathe. I won't try to say that I have had a miraculous recovery since I started taking time to focus on my breathing, but it has at least helped get the little hamster in my brain to stop running on that wheel 24/7.
Just keep breathing, just keep breathing.....
Wonderful! There are plenty of great resources out there for all kinds of breathing exercises.
My word for 2023 was "organize" and it was successful in a lot of ways. I worked with a professional organizer, got on better ADHD meds, and let myself experiment with my journal/planner/calendar practice so that I've got a much better system in place. It was definitely hard fighting against my own nature at times, so my word for 2024 is "commitment." I want to be able to follow through with the habits I'm trying to build, and I also want to get better at saying no to things when I've already said yes to things that deserve my full attention.
Productive hands
I loved this, because you truly have wise and insightful things to say! No rambling at all.
My year was defined by an overwhelming chronic illness with random horrible symptoms surprising me, every time I got my hopes up about signs of recovery. So I relate 1:1 to your title 😅
I guess my word for 2024 will be TRANSITION. Shape my life in a way that is fulfilling AND does not drain me mentally and physically.
As for your weekly creative production cycle: I hear a lot of (successful) RUclipsrs say that outsourcing the editing of their videos changed their lives. Because it frees up so much time, that you can then spend on the creative writing part, or whatever it is that you truly love to do. (Or simply on pausing!)
I hear you on the chronic illness journey. Every time I had some hope that I'd found an answer, I seemed to be thrown back to square one. Hang in there!
I tried outsourcing editing earlier this year and had a really bad experience with it so it put me off for a long time. I think I'll be ready to try again soon, with a lot more experience of what to look out for!
@@HowToGYST Thank you so much for answering! ❤ Yeah the challenge is to find the right people to outsource tasks to... Meanwhile trying to stay on your feet, health wise... "Hang in there" is applicable on many levels 💪🏼😅 I'm really glad that you seem to have found the way up!
Wishing you a Merry Christmas! 🎄
I don't have my word yet, but it's going to have something to do with going deeper into my practices. I don't enjoy the consequences when I neglect them.
How about IMMERSION?
@@HowToGYST Ooh....that is going on the list. I love it!
I really loved this reflective/ chatty video. 😊
My word for the year is "schedule." My plan is to have a question for each month related to that theme. 2023 was one chaotic mess. My routines, my systems, my comfort zones, etc in all areas of my life got thrown out the window when I got "life-checked" in 2021 when my Mom went home and added to the already overwhelming changes that have steadily taken place over the last several years without a break. The big (and hopefully final, I don't need to STOP, but I do need to "PAUSE") change for 2023 was losing my church. So, in order to take my life back, I need some consistency, and "schedule" will create that. The first step is creating the "schedule" without becoming so rigid that I become a slave to it, and the flip side of that is developing the self discipline to actually follow and stick to it. (ADHD/OCD brain here, so the struggle is real) So, my question for January is "am I sticking to my schedule?" This will be the filter through which incompleted tasks, overwhelm, lack of focus, hyperfocus, etc will be run to determine the need for adjustments/modifications. The question for February will be "does it fit in my schedule?" This will help me focus on doing what needs to be done in my kingdom for my sanity before committing to managing something from someone else's kingdom. Etc....
Ooh, best of luck! I like how you're acknowledging upfront that it doesn't have to be rigid. Allowing for some flexibility is what will increase your chances of success! Here's to a better year in 2024!
My word for this year was "Lighten" and I meant that in a variety of ways of lightening my load and lighting my way. Some examples are: I wanted to declutter and organize my house better, I wanted to lose weight, and I wanted to work on the literal lighting (decorative lighting) in my study. I've made good progress (some areas better than others) and just want to continue on this journey rather than changing my focus to something else. For 2024, my word is "Persist" to continue on this journey even though it's taking longer (and with a few obstacles) than I would like.
OMG Laura thank you sooooo much for this video!❤ The timing is perfect and you have no idea how this video is helping me in more ways than one.❤ God bless you and cheers from Ontario Canada. ❤
Great video 😊I can’t believe it’s been 6 years since you moved to America!
I know! Crazy.
I didn't have a word/theme for 2023, but in hindsight, it would have been "plot twist" 🤣
Every time I thought I knew what was coming, or felt that something was finally resolved. Plot twist.
Oh Laura, I wish I good give you a hug!! Or a phone call and tell you that life is not fair. I been there 2. This year really sucked for me. I haven’t even thought about next year. I’m just trying to survive this one. 😢
Sending you so much love. 💖
Also though..... Intervening isn't always safe. And also it is good to process stuff. That so a good quality. But also we don't need to speak up for every thing. Often people say or do things that aren't in alignment with our values. And sometimes if it is with people we know it may not be the place or time immediately by to address something. We will not live our life perfectly. We are always learning and growing and our perspectives always change. That saying "Hurt people, hurt people." Is something that has come up for me. It is hard when I see people that are just mean spirited or into the drama. I just don't get it. There so no need for that. I find spreading a different perspective with those that may hear it can go farther. I am great at compassion and forgiveness and honesty. I don't do many conventional things well but things of the heart are my jam. It's actually become a thing that has been way more of a gift over the years then I had previously given credit to it.
Yes, I do try to remember that you can't always change someone's mind on something so even if you do speak up, it'll likely fall on deaf ears. I think most of my regrets revolve around not speaking up in someone's defence so that they maybe felt alone or like no-one supported them.
I did speak up in one case where someone said something vile to a teenage girl. I looked him straight in the eyes and told him never to speak to her like that again. One of my proudest moments. But I feel like they're few and far between.
I thought I was the only person who detests hot drinks. Thanks
Thanks Laura, I enjoy your content. After decluttering my home 2020-21, I Set myself a challenge to declutter my mind by reading through the whole Bible. Didn’t happen in 2021, or 2022 as intended…plenty of pausing there! But this year in August suddenly the motivation to Bible journal, and deep dive the Word took hold. I’m now on track to finish by end of January, am so thankful I was able to do it.
Sometimes the “right time” reveals itself. 💖
I would be the worse waitress. 😂 Poor working memory and clumsy.
In truth I was a glorified cleaner. 😂
I'm really happy that you had a great year. It's important to forgive ourselves because most of the time we are doing our best with the knowledge we have at that time.
I also have to say the 'pause'
idea can be very revealing personally. I've had a year like that this year. I love being busy at work, I work as a cook and when I'm not working, I'm quite chilled out and sometimes I relax and just listen to music for hours, even if there are practical things I could be getting done. I will make a note and do it in a day or two. It can be very revealing personally to 'pause'. I hope you enjoy it. Ps. I love your videos.
Thank you! Looking forward to those moments that make me stop and reflect.
I love having a word for the year but for the life of me I can’t remember what 2023 was …. I think that says everything you need to know about where my head was at last dec to about June this year! Very excited to think about 2024. Interesting you mentioned about anger and chronic pain, have you heard of tms? I’m researching right now for chronic fatigue.
Oh yes, I’ve probably researched every condition known to humankind. 😂 Health conditions are like rabbit holes.
Dan Buglio does great work on TMS on his channel "Pain Free You". His daily videos have helped me immensely this year, overcoming long covid (which resembles chronic fatigue a lot).
@@RolienInTheGarden he's got a very calming voice, I like him too.
@@JoanneWhitlock Good that you already found him! Best of luck with your recovery 🙏🏼
This is a really great sit down video
❤❤❤❤❤
I would 100% go out and grab a coffee with you 🥹
well, you can have a cold bev 😂
😂 Thank you!