My one-word challenge for the year 2020 is broad in a sense. It’s the one thing that I breathe and long for every day. It doesn’t matter if it’s a rain or shine, hot or cold, or busy type of day.

I want more!

I require more!

My one word for 2020 is proven to increase emotional well being and creates stability.

I’ve been scared and reluctant in the past. I’ve buried myself in my never-ending career or my nose in the latest best-selling novel to ignore my desires. Yes, those things are not bad in any sense, but I need to find balance in order for me to invest in my one-word challenge this year.

I’m an introvert by nature.

My one-word challenge is defined as,” the state of being related by kindred, affinity or other alliance by Noah Webster’s 1828 dictionary. ” There are five types: Family, Friendships, Acquaintances, Romantic, and the most important one is my spiritual bond with the Highest.

I want meaningful relationships of all kinds. 

Spiritual Relationship

My spiritual relationship with Jesus has been lacking due to my past experiences with certain churches. I’ve been hurt and I’ve been distant. This year I want to make finding a church home a priority for our family. I’ve used the excuse that I don’t want to get burned by another Christian for too many years. I know deep in my heart that all Christians aren’t fakes.

Now, are there hypocrites in the church?

Absolutely! All churches are managed by human sinners.

However, I miss having a church family and being held accountable.

And most importantly, I miss my deep relationship with Christ.

Romantic Relationships

I’m so thankful that I have a romantic relationship with my husband. It’s been a year full of ups and downs for us as we became a blended family. However, he has always been there for me despite what’s happening with our busy lives. This year I want to make building a strong marriage bond with my husband a priority despite how I’m feeling emotionally or physically. Often times of exhaustion, heartache, and busyness gets in my way. Sadly, often my husband gets the short end of the stick.

Family Relationships

My family relationships have caused me the deepest pain. My six children are my world. I miss seeing them all every day. However, there is only so much that I can do since half of them live four hours away with their dad. I know I can’t control what’s being said to them but I can continue to pray for relationship reconciliation.

I can continue to make myself available to them as their mother. It’s the toughest and most challenging job in the world. And I’ve cried many tears. I’m giving my sorrows to the Lord on this matter. I will continue to build the close, strong-knit relationships with my children who are responsive and will continue to seek the Lord with my distant children.

Friendship Relationships

Having friendships are so important to women. We all need someone to hold us accountable and look after our best interests at heart. We all need to be able to vent without feeling judged. Over the years, I’ve come to the conclusion that I have many acquaintances but not a lot of close friendships. I would like to extend myself to my new and old friends that have crossed my path. Once again, time gets in our way to meet up. This year I want to concentrate on building my relationships with my friends. I will make getting together a priority, and I will actually mark it on my calendar.

Acquaintances

As I’ve mentioned before, I have many acquaintances. Some people are going to be just that…Acquaintances. There’s nothing wrong with that. However, I want to connect more with the ones I have common interests with. This might mean I need to take the initiative and invite them to come over for coffee or a glass of wine.

Will I get hurt?

Yes, people are busy and have different agendas. I will try not to take it personally.

My one-word challenge – relationships is so exciting and scary. I know that I need to build my relationship with Jesus first and the rest of the relationships will come into place with His guidance.

I would love to hear your thoughts on my one-word challenge. I would love any resources that have helped you with building meaningful relationships.

Happy New Year to building meaningful relationships!