My word for 2023 is “Simplify.”

It seems simple yet it’s easy to get caught up in old habits. If there’s one word I don’t like, it is “should”. Sure, there are certain things that should be done, so then how does one simplify when stuff has to get done?!

If I procrastinate, then I have a list of chores floating around in my head. My approach is to attack the day and get it over with. But this can lead to frustration and exhaustion. By the time I get my list done, I’m ready for a nap, and there is no “time for me”. After a 40-hour work week plus 7 hours of driving in traffic, I need a break! For self-care. I like to rest, walk in nature, and do art to name a few.

Remember paper calendars? Well, I had 3 of them until last year. Now I use the calendar on my cellphone, and it sure is handy. When a reminder pops up, and I can just do it or reschedule for another day. No more sticky notes for this girl!

But choosing the word “simplify” has a deeper meaning. I want to simplify the way my mind works. I want to do more with less effort, resulting in less stress and anxiety.

By focusing on the task at hand and being mindful of what I’m doing, vs thinking about what must get done means I’m calmer. It’s called “present moment awareness”. I’ve been doing it for about 10 years but for some reason I fall back into old habits. This is the art of mentally being here, now.

On the flip-side, the act of physically doing art also creates present moment awareness. When I create, I get out of my head-space and experience a freedom that I can’t live without. At the end of the day, art relieves my anxiety so that I can function in a healthier way.

Which is easier? Well art is, of course! But I can’t do art 24 hours a day!

My goal is to simplify the way I look at my life, the ups and downs, and my reactions to them. Since choosing the word “simplify” it has already been a helpful reminder. It may even become my mantra.

2023 is going to be a great year!