Every December, I look for a theme to carry into the New Year.  I don’t force it, I simply stay open to inspiration from something I read or hear, or a compelling thought that comes into my head.

I always seem to recognize it when it presents itself.  It’s a fun exercise and I enjoy the process.

Over the last few weeks, a phrase I’ve leaned on in the past has continued to come to mind.  It’s as if it is raising its hand, asking to be my theme … and I can’t ignore its pull.

My theme for 2017 is “Something good will come of this!”

At first blush, you may think this theme is all about overcoming adversity … making lemonade out of lemons, seeing the silver lining in the storm cloud … all those things people say to comfort you when things aren’t quite going your way.

But let’s dig a little deeper.  I know that throughout 2017 I will experience many joyful celebrations, wins and accomplishments … but I will also experience indecision, frustration and disappointment.  In fact, in order to surpass the goals I’ve set for myself this year, I am certain there will plenty of challenges along the way!

Most of us have heard the phrase “The Universe is perfect.”  And yeah, sure … the Universe is always perfect when things are going well.  Yet, for some reason, it’s not so perfect when things are in disarray, frightening or discouraging. Hah!  How does that work?  It doesn’t.

If we agree that the Universe is perfect … then it should be perfect even when things aren’t going our way … when we are sad, mad, betrayed, broke or broken hearted.

I’ve come to terms with this and yet, it isn’t always easy.  A few years ago I was faced with a health challenge that really brought me to my knees.  In a moment of fear and frustration, I turned to an inspirational book for solace, and the phrase “Something good will come of this” jumped out at me.  This was the first time this phrase helped me temper my thoughts and turn my fear into faith.  In fact, it was so comforting, I wrote the phrase on sticky notes and posted them in strategic places throughout my house.

I didn’t understand why I was sick or how or when we would find a solution … and in the times I felt my emotions moving towards fear, I reminded myself that “something good will come of this.”  Just because I didn’t know what that would look like … didn’t mean it wasn’t true.

The phrase became my emotional rudder and helped me to stay even emotionally and react on my terms.

And now, as I enjoy robust health again, I can see that there were indeed many “good” things and lessons that came out of the experience.

First, I’ve made my health a priority like never before.  I also learned that when the chips are down, I can choose to embrace patience, acceptance and surrender … rather than resistance, avoidance or denial.  Whew … these lessons continue to serve me well in all areas of my life.

And that’s why “Something good will come of this” is my theme for 2017.  I have completed hours of inspired vision work and goal setting for the year … in both my personal and business life.  I am confident that 2017 is going to be an epic year in all areas!

That being said, let’s go back to the beginning.  I know throughout the year along with all the joyful celebrations, wins and accomplishments, I will experience indecision, frustration and disappointment.

Rather than be reactive, paralyzed or stuck … I will use the phrase “Something good will come of this” to turn my fear into faith, to respond in the face of the unknown, and to harness the courage to act on my terms. Yes!  I am inspired and up to the challenge!

Here’s to an epic New Year for all of us!