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This year, I was encouraged and inspired by many in the blogging community to choose a word that would give direction to my hopes for 2011.

The word I chose is
Its definition, according to Merriam-Webster:
1. to grow vigorously : flourish
2. to gain in wealth or possessions : prosper
3. to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances

This one word so perfectly encapsulates my hopes for this brand new year and beyond
…for my family- my marriage and my son
…for my business and my photographic vision
…for my writing and the daily creativity that fuels me
…and for myself- mentally, physically and spiritually.

Growth is something I long for in all of these areas. I love the imagery the above definition provides of not only growing, but doing so vigorously- flourishing, rather than simply surviving. This year, I want to go “all out” in everything I do. I desire for every part of my life to be filled with passion and energy, with nothing done only halfway.

Part of the point of choosing a word for the year- at least as I understand it- is to help focus one’s energies toward their larger dreams and goals. It is one thing to hope to thrive, and surely that is a good start, but I also must take steps towards it. Each word or goal we set for ourselves can become a map of action for us to follow and build upon. I am challenging myself to be specific in visualizing what “thriving” looks like for me, and listing actions that can help me manifest it this year in my life.

My heartfelt wish for you in 2011 is that you will thrive in everything you set your hearts and minds to.

In what areas do you want to thrive this year? I would love to hear them!

Hannah Mayo

Hannah is a wedding and family lifestyle photographer, and lives in sunny South Florida with her husband and son. She loves film, coffee, and the ocean. Hannah likes to spend her free time reading, being with her family, and doing just about anything creative – including writing for her blog, Seeking Equipoise. She believes that there is beauty in all the world, and that it has power to change hearts and minds.

About Hannah


Hannah is a fine art and lifestyle portrait photographer, a visual storyteller and finder of beauty. She lives in West Palm Beach, Florida with her husband and son, and loves film, coffeeshops, the ocean, writing, and any creative outlet she can find- including her personal blog, Seeking Equipoise.

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  • Amy

    The One Little Word project stems from Ali Edwards, and she has an entire year class now based on this idea. It is a powerful way to look at the upcoming year.

    I chose my word yesterday,. And like you, I’m hoping it will help me dive into this year with joy and whole-heartedness.

  • http://beverlylewis.wordpress.com Beverlydru

    Loved this… my word is “convergence”
    You can enter to win beautiful jewelry with your word! I was just here!
    http://studiojewel.blogspot.com/2011/01/word-of-year-necklace-and-giveaway.html

  • http://susanfowler.net Susan Fowler

    I want to thrive in lots of ways as well! For my blog & photography business, but mainly for my family as my husband and I hope to start a family towards the end of this year!

  • http://www.bakedbree.com Bree

    that is a great word for the new year!

  • http://www.kristi-kikiscorner.blogspot.com kristi

    Hi Hannah! I have a Hannah….love that name. Your post is beautiful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing this today. “Thrive” Great motivation! Blessings to you.

  • http://www.soverydomestic.com So Very Domestic

    Thrive is a great word for the year! I’d like to thrive at parenting, and living and loving and creating. That’s not too much to ask, is it? LOL

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  • http://foodallergiesonabudget.wordpress.com/ Lindsey

    I love thrive!!!! (I also took it for my own) :-) It’s truly perfect, thank you for sharing!

  • http://seekingequipoise.com Hannah

    Amy, thank you for the link to the One Little Word project! It looks like an excellent class!