What word did you choose and why?

Content

I chose this word because I think that people romanticize people that are really driven so this year I just want to be content with what I am doing and not push myself so hard. This year I want to apply for a PhD program, but I am OK if I don’t get in. What is intended to happen, will and i want to be content with that.

If you could go back and talk to yourself before you started college, what would you tell yourself?

Foster more relationships with my professors. It really does matter, they can be great mentors. I would tell myself to be kinder to myself. Be more social.

What word did you choose and why?

Serving

My goal this year is to serve wherever God needs me. Whether that is me personally, or together with my husband. We have enough contacts where we can almost always help others. I want to be able to help anyone that brings me a need.

I want to serve God better. I want to do more.

Last year, life changed for me. My husband had a stroke and I sat there and prayed. God answered my prayers. He’s answered my prayers for my kids many times over. I’ve just felt this calling that I need to do more. Not just for my family, but for my community. I just felt God pulling at my heart. He said, I’ve given you the things you’ve asked for, now I need you to be the person I designed you to be.

What would Barbara today tell a younger Barbara?

Love people more. Especially the ones you won’t have forever. Always let God lead you instead of you trying to force the path.

What word did you choose and why?

Control

I chose this word because I want to take control back over my life. I want to be able to control my health, my job, my scentsy business… I want to get everything back in order. I decided this year is the year that I need to change these things because honestly, i looked in the mirror and I’m tired of looking this way. I want to do things to make it all better.

So with my health, I am seeing a nutritionist and I am implementing a diet and exercise program. I definitely already have more energy. In regards to my job, I switched locations and trying to make myself better at it. I have seniority and I need to be a good leader without being bossy. As for my scentsy business.. I want to take control over my growth with this business and help my team grow.

It’s ok to make mistakes and it’s ok to be you.

What is something that you are determined to accomplish this year?

To get to a healthier weight. It’s definitely doable, I just have to get my mind right and determined.

What word did you choose and why?

Resilient

I chose this word because even though I had a really amazing life growing up, life happened with my parents and their relationship and I got mad as a child and young adult.  My fathers death affected me greatly and I wonder some days if I’ll ever get over it.  I’ve overcome bad relationships and drug addiction.  I am resilient and find my way back.  My daughter saved me for sure.  

Even in a work environment, I’ve climbed and been knocked down – but I always rise above.  I’m proud of how determined I am. I feel like with everything I’ve been thru, I’m here.

What word did you choose and why?

Clarity

This year i’ve gotten back into art thru a creative bible study at my church. I’ve really enjoyed getting back into art. When I came across this bible verse, I knew instantly that I needed clarity. I have so much in my brain that I just have realized that I need clarity. Thru this journey, I’ve been able to really be more of who I want to be.

This year I also want to really find clarity in how I communicate and how others receive my communication.