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The Amazing Practice of Annual ThemesA decade ago, my partner Rob and I decided to create a theme for the year. Within fourteen months we discovered that this had the potential of becoming a life-altering decision and we continue the practice to this day. Below is a list of our annual themes, plus a replica of our 2008 poster as well. 1995 - Year of Transition We were surprised and pleased to find that choosing a personal theme creates a unique window on your world; a special lens that offers a consistent way of perceiving and interpreting what happens. My book "Why Is Everyone So Cranky?" may not have happened without our practice of annual themes. It was during our Year of Exploration that I decided to "explore my potential as writer" and embark on this daunting project, and in the following year, our Year of Adventure (indeed, big adventures!), the book was published. The Year of Lightness that followed helped me maintain my perspective in the heat of an extended media blitz. I had no clue that during the Year of Reinvention I would begin reinventing my business! The first step was putting up my shingle as a Manuscript Doctor and so far I have helped four writers transform their books before publication. In 2004, the Year of Enhancement, I found myself enhancing my business (and pleasure) with jewelry making! There now exists a thriving "inspirational accessory" business at www.PreciousPurpose.com (formerly known as WearableRemembrance.com): Unique, hand crafted accessories with a precious purpose. Our bracelets comfort, encourage, support, and remind us of what's important in our lives. Each self-help bracelet comes with an inspirational story, original poem, and reminder card. If anyone had predicted I would launch such an enterprise I would have told them they were nuts and I'm convinced it's connected to the "theme thing." People ask how we choose our annual themes, they sometimes pop out during intimate discussions. When the same word resonates with both of us we go for it, having no idea how things will unfold, but they always do. I urge you to try this powerful practice. Couples and individuals alike who designate an annual theme tell me it has added meaning to their lives. You may wonder how something so simple could make such a difference. I urge you to not waste time wondering how it works, but to just try it instead, and see what unfolds. Imagine a Year of __________ for yourself. But, don't just imagine it. Do it! Try it. Trust the process. Trust yourself. Not only will having an annual theme help shape your attitude, it will influence your daily decisions. The outcomes may surprise you. Having engaged in this practice for a decade now, I love it when friends e-mail and ask, "So what's your theme for the year? Mine is..." and then they explain. Nice to be a positive influence on others. In 2008, our Year of Enrichment, the goal is enhanced experiences: being able to notice, savor, and stay in tune with the simple aspects of life that are too often overlooked. I plan to ask myself, “In what way can this experience be enriched?” Whether I'm working, playing, eating, resting, or indulging myself in (fairly) healthy ways, I want to make the most of the moment. My partner Rob and I are at a stage in life where we want to take full advantage of every day. We want to enjoy ourselves while continuing to learn, grow, and change in an atmosphere of love, respect, and balance. So what will the year of Enrichment be all about? While there is clear intent behind the idea of enrichment, who knows what the actual outcomes will be? We haven't a clue. We never know in the beginning, but somehow, things happen. In the meantime, I plan on having a healthy, happy year and I know that won't happen unless I make some active contributions to enrich the quality of my life as well as that of my body, mind, and spirit. Do you have your own theme? If so, I'd love to hear what it is and how you happened to choose it. |
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C. Leslie Charles 2004, 2005 Web Site Created & Maintained by Tara Nofziger |
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