53. Setting goals and expanding vocabulary

A coffee cup on top of a calendar

Introduction

As I look ahead to the next year, I’m setting goals that align with my commitment to personal growth, learning, and self-expression. One of the ways I’m pursuing these goals is through my Words of the Week (WoW) series—a project that not only expands my vocabulary but also helps me articulate my aspirations and reflect on my journey. This blog explores how the WoW series intersects with my goals for the coming year, serving as both a tool for learning and a roadmap for growth.

Academic goals: enriching language through learning

One of my primary goals for the year is to return to university and earn a degree in physics. This academic pursuit will require not only a deep understanding of scientific concepts but also the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. To support this goal, I’m using the WoW series to enrich my scientific vocabulary, focusing on terms and concepts that are essential for success in my studies.

Each week, I’ll be selecting words that are relevant to my coursework and academic interests, breaking them down into their core components, and exploring their meanings in depth. By doing so, I’ll be reinforcing my understanding of key concepts while also building a strong foundation for academic writing and communication. The WoW series will be an integral part of my study routine, helping me to stay engaged with the material and to approach my studies with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Professional goals: enhancing communication in the skilled trades

In addition to my academic goals, I’m also focused on advancing in the skilled trades, specifically as a millwright. Effective communication is crucial in this field, not just in terms of technical instructions but also in conveying ideas and collaborating with others. The WoW series will play a key role in helping me refine my communication skills, particularly in areas that are relevant to my professional development.

By selecting words that are commonly used in the skilled trades, I’ll be expanding my technical vocabulary and improving my ability to articulate complex processes and concepts. Whether it’s a term related to machinery, engineering, or safety, each word will help me build a stronger professional language that can enhance my effectiveness in the workplace. The WoW series will also serve as a resource for others in my field, offering insights into the language and terminology that are critical for success in the trades.

Personal development goals: words as tools for self-improvement

On a personal level, I’m setting goals that focus on self-improvement, well-being, and creative expression. The WoW series is a perfect complement to these goals, as it encourages continuous learning, reflection, and mindfulness. By exploring words that resonate with my personal values and aspirations, I’m able to use language as a tool for self-discovery and growth.

For example, I might choose words like "resilience" or "mindfulness" to explore in the WoW series, reflecting on how these concepts apply to my life and how I can cultivate them in my daily routine. Each word becomes a prompt for introspection, helping me to set intentions, develop new habits, and stay focused on my personal development goals. The WoW series is not just about expanding my vocabulary; it’s about deepening my understanding of the principles that guide my life.

Creative exploration: expressing goals through words

Creativity is another area where I’m setting goals for the coming year, particularly in terms of writing and artistic expression. The WoW series offers a platform for exploring this creativity, as each word becomes an opportunity to craft stories, poems, or reflections that capture my thoughts and feelings. By using words as a starting point for creative projects, I’m able to channel my goals into tangible expressions that inspire and motivate me.

This year, I plan to experiment with different forms of writing in the WoW series, from short essays to poetry, each centered around a chosen word. This approach will allow me to explore new creative avenues while also reinforcing my commitment to personal growth and self-expression. The WoW series will be a space where my goals and creativity intersect, resulting in a rich tapestry of words and ideas that reflect my journey.

Conclusion: words as guides for growth

The Words of the Week series is more than just a vocabulary exercise; it’s a guide for growth, learning, and self-expression. By aligning the WoW series with my goals for the coming year, I’m creating a powerful tool for personal and professional development. Whether I’m focusing on academic success, professional communication, personal well-being, or creative exploration, the WoW series will help me stay on track, inspire new ideas, and deepen my understanding of the world around me. Through words, I’m charting a course for a year of meaningful growth and discovery.

The reference artwork