Welcoming 2024 with intention
I rolled out of bed and made my way to my favorite yoga studio for their special New Year’s Day class. On my drive over, I contemplated what I would select for my one little word (OLW) for this year. For those of you who are not familiar. OLW is a word that represents an intention that you would like to manifest in your life. My past OLWs include grow, joy, create, become, and resilient. Unlike this year’s word, these words came to me easily; oftentimes in early December.
My yoga instructor began class by expressing gratitude for our community. She reminded us that what makes this practice so special is coming together. And just like that, I knew my word.
My OLW for 2024 is…drumroll please… CONNECT!
I knew I wanted an action word; one that would nudge me forward in my consulting endeavors. How perfect to select a word that is foundational to my business. Afterall, it is named Connected Literacy Consultants!
Keeping my word front and center
I created a Google slide representing my word and how I might manifest it in my life. Each image represents ways to connect with the people in my life.
My screensaver reminds me of my OLW and ways to manifest it in my life.
My family: My oldest daughter started high school this year and my youngest started middle school. This makes me acutely aware of how precious our time is together. I am savoring it. Whether it is going on an adventure together, practicing basketball with them or listening to their favorite artist, Taylor Swift, I will prioritize connecting with my family.
My students: I want to be present as a classroom teacher. I am constantly reminded of how short our time is together. One way I have been connecting with my students recently is by meeting with them individually to discuss how they feel about their reading and writing.
Colleagues: Teaching can be a lonely job. Often we close our doors and work with the kids in front of us. In addition to connecting with teachers in my building, I will continue to show up online and connect with colleagues in school districts across the country.
Myself: I want to be aware of how I am feeling and what I need to show up as my best self each day. Writing each morning and attending ballet class are two ways I put my to do lists aside and attend to my needs.
Helping my students select their OLW
This past week, I shared the concept of OLW with my students and invited them to come up with their own words. We went through a process of reflecting on our year.
We wrote about 2023’s highlights, challenges, and lessons. Students who were comfortable shared their writing. This was a powerful way to help inspire ideas in others.
We considered how we wanted to feel this year and came up with a word to manifest that feeling. For example, if a student wanted to feel loved, they chose the word “love” as their OLW.
Students made their own Google Slides. Many chose to follow my lead and make them their screensavers.
We shared our slides with the class. Sharing our words and explaining our intentions helped to reconnect our classroom community after winter break.
Bring OLW to yourself and your students
Do you have a word for this year? Have you helped your students come up with their words? I would love to hear about!
Happy New Year!
