My 2017 Mantra: Anything Not Everything

Yes, I’ve already thought about my 2017 mantra!  No, I don’t have resolutions or goals…yet. 

Anything not everything.

This short phrase plays on repeat in my head every now and then.  When I’m feeling overwhelmed, when I have to make key decisions, when I want to finish off a pint of ice cream, etc.  So instead of letting it just come and go as it pleases, I’m making it a permanent fixture in 2017 to help frame my thinking and give me a bit of perspective as needed.

In 2017, I want to do two things.  I want to take advantage of the opportunities that come my way, and I also want to slow down and not be so hard on myself.  Anything not everything reminds me that I can do whatever I put my mind to, but it doesn’t have to happen all at once.  I can and should take my time and do what makes me happy.

This phrase also alleviates some of the pressure that comes from having a personality like mine.  I want to be all things to all people at all times.  I want to be an outstanding wife, a supportive sister/daughter, a solid friend, a dependable employee/co-worker.  When I think about this from an anything not everything perspective, I feel like there’s a more even split in my relationships.  I don’t have to carry the weight of every relationship on my shoulders.  It’s…liberating!

I’m also a huge believer in making most of the time you in this very moment because tomorrow is not guaranteed.  That’s why I focus so much on things like mindfulness.  Viewing things with an anything not everything lens puts that into perspective.  It serves as a reminder to prioritize and focus your energy on the things that matter most.  There’s a reason why we can’t physically do everything…not everything is important!

So in 2017, I’m going to pick and choose which hats I wear and when, I’m going to prioritize and align my to do lists with my energy levels, I’m going to focus, enjoy, and live the hell out of the present moment, and I’m not ever going to feel bad about being/choosing anything not everything (this one is absolutely key!).

Your turn – even if you don’t have concrete thoughts about 2017 just yet, what are you thinking about in terms of a mantra, a word, resolutions, goals, etc.?