My word of the year was supposed to be radiant. I planned to go with the theme ‘Shine Bright Like a Diamond’ (think RiRi in her Anti era). I was already working on my vision board when my new word found me the week before the inauguration – Fortify. I tried my best to resist this word but it kept coming up. So I decided to stop fighting and accept the message that was being sent – it’s time for me to fortify if I want to thrive in this current moment in history.
Let’s dig into it. Here’s the definition of fortify:
:to make strong: such as
a: to strengthen and secure (a place, such as a town) by forts or batteries
**b:**to give physical strength, courage, or endurance to
c: to add mental or moral strength to : encourage
d: to strengthen or enhance by the addition of some substance or ingredient
As I read the definition, I was crystal clear on why the word chose me. The universe decided that I would be a person in leadership in 2025. I don’t believe in accidents so I decided to pay attention to what this might mean. I quickly concluded that the best way for me to fortify is to focus on what’s in my locus of control. Myself, my people, and my clients. I can’t control what’s happening in the White House or Congress. However, I can use my gifts, talents, and skills right now to serve across those three domains. I can show up there.
I’d love to invite you to join me by thinking about what’s in your locus of control. Here’s what that looks like practically.
Myself/Yourself
Gratitude lists and affirmations
Being mindful of what I put in my body – eating regular meals, hydrating, regular movement of some kind, limiting news consumption and doom scrolling.
Taking lunch breaks every day even if it’s just to move your body or get some fresh air
My/Your People
Make sure everyone has an updated ID
Check the expiration date on all passports
Plan that check-in call or text and keep a pulse on how folks are doing
My/Your Community
Check in with your charity of choice to see how you can lend an extra hand or make an additional donation
Sign up to be a voter registrar and start engaging with folks around the local elections in your area
Strengthen your community relationships by reaching out to a colleague or someone you’ve always admired from afar
My Clients/YOU
I’m sending emails about your traction report to remind you to spend time in your leadership each week
I’m offering quarterly planning sessions during the weekday to make them more accessible to more people
I’m offering probono strategic advising hours to current nonprofit and philanthropic partners being negatively impacted by this current administration
I want to hear how you’re doing. What feels like it’s in your locus of control right now? If you focus your leadership on your locus of control, what can change for you?
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