The title of this is slightly misleading because I cannot say I lived every day, 365 days full of gumption in 2016. But actually, a few weeks ago, when I was considering picking a new word for a new year, I couldn’t help but reflect on the last one.
My first response when reflecting on how I did with a year of gumption was, “Oh, man. I totally forgot to focus on that. I did not have gumption at all.” And then the voice in my head immediately told that voice to shut up. Because this year was all about gumption.
Sure, when I decided on gumption, I was talking about my career and personal life. And I fell short in terms of career. I let fear and rejection get in my way until the last few months of the year. But every other part of my life? Man, this was a growing year. I talked about courage, spunk, guts and if learning how to date–and ending the year in a relationship–isn’t those things, I don’t know what is.
(For the record, I am fully aware that most people know how to date just fine. But for me, being vulnerable, putting myself out there was the opposite of natural. I had to start using emotional muscles I didn’t even know I had. And with the support of some important people, I learned so much and grew so much).
When I talk about the dating I did this year, I will be the first to say that it was work. Not just the time investment but the emotional one. But it was worth it and it paid off in spades because of…you guessed it…gumption.
Because of all this, I feel more myself than ever in my life. I feel more at peace with the woman than I am. And I am more dedicated than ever to growing. I don’t want to be stagnant and I don’t want these muscles to atrophy.
And in many ways, 2016 was a garbage year for a lot of people. I’m talking news wise and personal stuff. But at the same time…some incredible stuff happened in 2016 too. Nothing is all good or all bad. Not even 2016. The best parts though were personally fueled by gumption, by God’s grace. 
As for next year, or rather, this year? I have settled on a new word. I know this hasn’t been a place I have written in super regularly but I can promise you that my word will be here tomorrow ready to be unveiled…because I know you are just dying to know it. 
Cheers to gumption. As I said originally, it will get you everywhere.
Love,
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