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The Ever-Amazing Practice of Annual Themes
We were delighted to discover that choosing a personal theme changes your perspective. In fact, without this practice, "Why Is Everyone So Cranky?" may never have become a reality. It was during our Year of Exploration that I decided to "explore my potential as writer" and embark on writing the cranky book. During the Year of Adventure my “cranky” book sold for a substantial sum and I took myself (and my horse) to Venice, Florida for a four-month retreat. Each day I sat in the Lanai, tapping on my computer while gazing at the inspiring Gulf of Mexico. After meeting my writing goals for the day I would head off to the stable for a late afternoon ride and return in time for the sunset. During the Year of Reinvention I retooled my business, launching my enterprise as a writing coach and manuscript doctor for authors that want to take the stress out of writing solo. I relieve them from having to struggle alone with their project. Our teamwork and my transformational editing make their book more clean, clear, and comprehensive prior to publication. In 2004, the Year of Enhancement , I launched www.PreciousPurpose.com, offering handmade (by me) inspirational jewelry (mostly bracelets) packaged with the gift cards I make, bearing an inspirational story or original poem (written by me). The bracelets are connected to life events from sad to celebration. Never having been a "craft" person, who would have thought I'd embark on such a thing? Annual themes are the perfect antidote to stress and crankiness because they keep you focused. People ask how we choose our themes, and in the beginning, as we felt our way through the process, we would discuss all kinds of ideas before choosing the one that seemed a best fit. By the third or fourth year, the themes pretty much emerge organically. Rob and I never know how things will unfold, but they always do, in wonderful and mysterious ways. The practice of naming a theme is powerful and life changing. It makes the year more purposeful, positive, and productive. Friends and clients tell me it has added new meaning to their lives. I encourage you to try it, and see what unfolds for you. Imagine a Year of __________ and what it might bring you. Trust the process. Trust yourself. Not only does having an annual theme shape your attitude, it influences your daily decisions and actions. Each year, my closest friends ask, "So what's your theme?” And then they say; “Mine is . . ." and I just smile. Thanks to the Year of Action & Follow Through I achieved numerous personal and professional goals. Here are some of my major accomplishments (which know would not have happened otherwise): I enhanced my exercise program, lost a few pounds, won a national disc golf women's championship, took on a few new manuscript doctor clients, re-branded my business, started my blog, got on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, attracted some new clients, and started the ball rolling for my new e-newsletter. In 2010, the Year of Finesse , I'll be continuing along the course set in ‘09. And who knows what other adventures will turn up? They always do. Be a cranky buster. Choose your theme and let it unfold. You'll be glad you did, and I look forward to hearing your end of year report!
Here's what a friend and colleague, Karen Cortell Reisman (speaker and author), told me about her theme adventures:
Questions about this or anything else on this site? Ask the cranky expert and await your answer!
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| © 2008 Leslie Charles, Yes! Press & Trainingworks / Webmaster: Tara E. Nofziger | ||
Over a decade ago, my life partner Rob and I decided to create a theme for the year. We soon discovered this had the potential of being life-altering and we continue the practice to this day. Below is a list of our annual themes, plus a replica of our