My #OneWord for 2016 – #NotYet

I admit it, I am hooked on the new TV show, Limitless.  The TV show focuses on Brian Finch, who helps solve crimes after discovering the power of a mysterious drug which opens the full possibility of his brain and gives him perfect recall of everything he has ever read, heard, or seen.  This comedy/action show sucked me in immediately and also affirmed my “One Word” for 2016.

A few months ago, I shared a call to action from Gordon, Britton, and Page’s book, One Word that Will Change Your Life.  The book describes the failed attempts at keeping a new year’s resolution, and the power of defining your goal in One Word.  Through a process to look in, outside, and up, I committed Inspire as my One Word for 2015.

It seemed like this TV show’s premise, along with the current conversations being discussed as a result of Carol Dweck’s work on Mindset, affirmed “Not Yet” as my One Word for 2016.  I realize this may be grounds for heresy, but these two words put together are even now transforming how I respond to initiatives, trials, and events.

Although Brian Finch may use a drug to give him supernatural abilities, his character has a positive, optimistic attitude towards the possibilities in trying new things.  This type of demeanor and approach to life inspires me to conduct the same growth mindset to try things.  While I may not know how to do something or be told why something may be unlikely, I’m making it my goal for 2016 to respond with a positive, open affirmation of “Not Yet”. 

But, we can’t do that? Not Yet.

But, we haven’t been trained in that? Not Yet.

But, we don’t have permission to proceed. Not Yet.

I’ve been in a lot of conversations about Dweck’s findings on growth mindset this past year, and I am a believer.  But, I have left many conversations, both in professional meetings and at the coffee table, wondering the practical application for this.  So, in response to the “what do we do with this” question, I am committing the new year to hold myself accountable to the magic of possibilities by adopting a “Not Yet” attitude.

I challenge you to spend this month reflecting on your One Word for 2016 and posting it in your office and sharing it with your staff and colleagues.  I invite you to also write your reason for your One Word and post it on social media and in the comments section below during the month of January.   By sharing your voice with laser focus, you will be better equipped for the new year!