For the past few years, my best friend and I have picked a specific word that we want to carry with us throughout the year. Each year we reflect on the previous word selected and how the year played out. Then, we select our new word and share what we hope for the new year. Last week when we got together for her birthday dinner, we went over the words we had selected, but this year I wasn’t feeling completely connected to the original word I had selected. I felt like I needed to dig a little deeper. So, I shared what I had picked and that I was still unsure. She agreed that it was a good choice but didn’t feel like the right one. She encouraged me to pray over it, and get back to her about it. The next morning, I took time to really reflect on the goals I have for the year and prayed over a few different options. This year two stuck out and together they feel like the perfect fit: Refine & Fortify Refine: The focus is to remove what isn’t working to allow room for something stronger and more pure Fortify: The focus is to build a strong foundation and to strengthen my faith for any challenges that lie ahead If y’all have a word of the year as well, I’d love to learn more about it and cheer you on!

We want this to be a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their dreams and passions, knowing they’re supported along the way. Each person here brings their own experience, story, and perspective, and all of it matters. This is a community built on growth, trust, and encouragement where we help one another feel safe, heard, and seen. Let’s believe in each other and move forward together. Step 1: Go ahead and introduce yourself in the comments below Share your name, where you’re from, and something fun about you Step 2: Choose one lane Comment under the feed topic that fits you best (fitness, mental health, etc.) this week and answer one question, share one struggle, or one small win, nothing polished required. Step 3: Engage with one person Like or reply to at least one post in the feed. Encouragement builds momentum for them and for you!