Have you picked out a word for the year, yet (see “…20/20 vision”)—or has your word picked out you? How do you know it’s your word? Here’s a tip: if a particular word or phrase continues to pop up in your day-to-day life, there’s a pretty good chance you’re onto something. For me, the word “growth” resonated prior to yearend. And, only a couple weeks into the New Year, I’m convinced it’s a perfect match. Especially when it seems everything in my life is under construction. Because: ouch. The “pruning” I’m experiencing during this season has proven a bit painful, yet on point. Perhaps you’ve found that a word or phrase—one you’ve chosen as your mantra for the remainder of the year—forces you to address areas of your life that require a good pre-spring cleaning. In my own circumstances, to create the space required for new growth, I must let go and let Him.

In what one area must you push through pain for gain?