A month ago, I blogged about creating an annual theme which, incidentally, happens to be our most popular blog post to date. Many of you have graciously shared your themes, which has proven incredibly inspiring! From “Happiness” to “Discipline” to “Abundance” to “Clarity,” we love to hear how your theme plays out throughout the year.
In addition to using your theme as a guide for decisions and actions, you’ll also want to keep it front-and-center of your work and life. The continuous reminder of who you are and where you’re headed this year can infuse all areas of your day.
Today I offer 10 simple ways you can ensure your theme stays top of mind:
1. Screensaver. Seeing “Prosperity” or “Simplify” float around your computer screen throughout the day will quickly and easily bring you back to your theme. Use a beautiful font or insert a photo representation for more reinforcement.
2. Quotation. Search for a quote, passage, or poem that expresses your theme. For example, last year my theme was “Extraordinary.” I discovered this quote by Uta Hagen that captured my theme’s essence perfectly: “Overcome the notion that you must be regular. It robs you of the chance to be extraordinary!”
3. Notecard or Stationery. From #2 above, my graphic designer created a MAP Inc. card incorporating our logo and my theme quotation (see photo). This served a dual purpose: it reminded me (and my recipient) of my theme and it encouraged me to send more handwritten cards!
4. Passwords. Reader Jackie shared that she incorporates her theme into her computer passwords, a fantastic and frequent reinforcement of her theme. Considering how many times most of us enter passwords throughout the day, this will surely anchor your theme.
5. Vision Board. While your Vision Board often represents your goals and dreams, you can also infuse your theme. For example, my Vision Board consists mostly of pictures, but my theme word is right in the center – in ALL CAPS, hot pink, glittery font. 🙂
6. Sticky Notes. When strategically placed, sticky notes can become motivating (when not strategically placed, clutter). Write your theme on several brightly-colored sticky notes and place them on your bathroom mirror, car dashboard, and other locations you see daily.
7. Alarm Clock. Can you find a song that represents your theme? For example, “Walkin’ On Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves would set a lively tone for a theme of “Light” or “Joy.” Set it as your alarm clock and wake up with your theme each morning.
8. Theme Journal. Perhaps you keep a Gratitude Journal or, particularly if you’re a coaching client of mine, a Success Journal. Consider a Theme Journal, where each evening you jot down one way you lived your theme that day.
9. Resources. With my “Extraordinary” theme last year, I actually did a book search to see what titles held that word. Two of those books became fabulous resources for me and helped me keep my theme present in my work. Check for books, blogs, articles, and other resources that may focus on your theme.
10. Conversation. How often can you work your theme word into conversation? Once it becomes ever-present in your life, you may be surprised how easy this becomes! Make your theme part of your vocabulary for extra emphasis.
What’s YOUR theme for 2013? How do you keep it present? Inspire us all with your ideas by posting below or sharing on Facebook or Twitter.
Dr. Christi Hegstad helps you successfully do what you love! As President of MAP Professional Development Inc., she coaches business owners and leaders to get unstuck and reach their highest potential with clarity, confidence, and meaningful action. Learn more at www.meaning-and-purpose.com and follow Dr. Christi on Facebook and Twitter.