Choosing One Word

Choosing a One Word has shaped my life for more than a decade, and this year, that word is Invest.

Since 2009, I’ve chosen one word as a theme for my year instead of making resolutions that didn’t last to the end of January. By having a One Word, I’m intentional about living my life according to my values. Sure, One Words are often shared in January, but with the busyness of a book deadline, travel, and preparing for the New Year, that didn’t happen. So, this is me—sharing how my One Word will encompass my year, even if it’s a little later than usual.

How Invest Found Me

Last fall, I participated in a small group gathering through my church. During one of our conversations, a friend made a comment about how we need to invest in others in order to grow.

That word stayed with me.

Invest.

When you first hear the word invest, you might think of money—stocks, IRAs, savings accounts, and financial planning. But invest can also mean dedicating your time, talents, and resources to other areas of your life.

One Word—One Verse

Along with One Word, I also like to meditate on one specific verse throughout the year. This year, I have chosen:

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17 NIV

I want my words, actions, and values to align with who Jesus is and maintain a grateful heart while doing all that He’s called me to accomplish.

Where I’m Choosing to Invest in 2026

For me, this year looks like choosing to invest in:

• My faith
• My family
• My friendships
• My health
• My day job
• My writing career

Some of these will require financial investments.

Others will require investments of time, patience, dedication, and a willingness to risk failure.

What That Investment Looks Like

• Investing in My Faith: I want to grow my relationship with God by spending time in prayer on a daily basis, digging deeper into His Word and applying those principles to my life, maintaining a thankful heart, shining my light, and being of service to others.
• Investing in My Family: I want to create a spiritual legacy for my family by praying intentionally for needs, spending quality time together, listening more instead of advising (especially as a mom to adult sons), and being present with my husband as we deepen our marriage.
• Investing in Friendships: I want to love well and build community within the circles God has placed me by making time in my busy schedule for those monthly coffee dates, purposeful get‑togethers, and praying for my friends’ needs.
• Investing in My Health: I want to be a good steward of what God has given me by building sustainable habits that benefit my mind, body, and soul for the long run. Not just exercising regularly and making healthier food choices, but also being intentional about Sacred Rest and focused creativity. It also means making space to learn new skills like watercolor painting and taking time for reading for pleasure without guilt.
• Investing in My Day Job: I’ve been blessed with managing an online writing school, mentoring aspiring authors, and working as an author liaison for a fairly new publishing company. These jobs require diligence, time, and purpose as I take on more responsibility and develop the skills needed to manage it well.
• Investing in My Writing Career: I want to grow the gifts and talents God has given me by learning new strategies to improve my novels, build my career, streamline my marketing, and save for retirement.

Choosing My Kind of Life

By doing everything in the name of Jesus, with excellence, purpose, and gratitude, I’m choosing my kind of life—one that feels intentional, sustainable, and purposeful.

By anchoring my One Word with my One Verse, my year remains Christ-centered. It’s a commitment to honor God with my intentions, to be a good steward of my habits, gifts, and talents, and to give thanks through it all. Even when life feels hard.

Because while light is necessary for growth, much of the rooting happens in the dark.

Investing doesn’t always feel productive or visible, but it’s still progress. Sometimes it means focusing on one thing instead of chasing every opportunity. And always, it requires patience, persistence, and trust in the process.

What about you?

What is one area of your life where God’s asking you to invest more intentionally this year?