The Year of the Navigator

This is my ‘/word page’ - a place to document my intent for the next chapter of the life of timall.red

It’s all part of the Choose One Word ‘Ritual of Becoming’ from Dr Jason Fox and The Cleverness.

Backstory

As I reflect on my past Words of the Year, each one has been a beacon, guiding me through different phases of my life. From the fierce independence of the Warrior to the transformative power of the Alchemist, and most recently, the insurgent spirit that challenged the status quo, each word has carved a distinct path on my journey. The Year of the Insurgent taught me to disrupt and innovate, questioning norms and embracing uncertainty with a strategic mind.

July 2024 ushers in a new chapter, a continuation of the narrative that started with the Expeditioner (2022), the Alchemist (2021), and most recently - the Insurgent (2023). Over this coming year, I am embracing the persona of the Navigator, steering my life with wisdom, foresight, and an unyielding sense of purpose.

The Year of the Navigator.

The Navigator is a master of direction, a seeker of new horizons, and a guide through the uncharted waters of life.

The Navigator is one who charts a course through the unknown, using the stars as a guide and the compass as a tool. She embodies wisdom, foresight, and the courage to venture into uncharted territories.

With a map in hand and the horizon in sight, the Navigator is always on the move, constantly seeking new adventures and opportunities for growth.

Principles

1. Here be Dragons.

“Here there be dragons, my friend. But not all dragons are hoarders of gold and purveyors of destruction. Some dragons are protectors, keepers of ancient wisdom and guardians of the realms unseen.”
~ James A. Owen

The Navigator knows that the unknown is often fraught with fearsome beasts, not because they are truly terrifying, but because they represent the uncharted and the unexplored. The phrase "Here be Dragons" serves as both a warning and an invitation. It's a reminder that the greatest treasures lie beyond the edge of the known world, guarded by the mythical dragons of our imagination.

The Navigator embraces these dragons, seeing them not as threats, but as opportunities for growth and discovery. By venturing into dragon-infested waters, I commit to facing my fears head-on, transforming every challenge into a stepping stone toward greater wisdom and understanding.

This principle encourages me to welcome the unknown with open arms, recognising that the dragons I encounter may well be protectors of hidden wisdom, guiding me toward realms of untapped potential and profound learning.

2. Plot the Course, Adjust the Sails.

"The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails."
~ William Arthur Ward

The Navigator is meticulous in their planning, charting a course with precision and care. Yet, they are also acutely aware that the sea is a fickle mistress, and no plan survives contact with reality. As such, the Navigator remains flexible, ready to adjust the sails and change direction when the winds of fortune shift.

This principle embodies the balance between foresight and adaptability.

As the Navigator, I will create detailed plans and strategies, understanding that the journey is fraught with unpredictability. I will embrace the winds of change, seeing them not as obstacles, but as opportunities to refine my course. This adaptability ensures that I can navigate through life's uncertainties, being away of drift, and turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success. By adjusting my sails, I remain resilient, agile, and prepared to steer my ship towards my goals, regardless of the changing tides.

3. Seek Your True North.

"A compass doesn’t tell you where you are, and it doesn’t tell you where you have to go. It can only point you in a direction. It’s up to you to always find your true north."
~ Samira Ahmed

The Navigator relies on the North Star, a constant point of reference amidst the ever-changing cosmos. This principle symbolises the importance of having a clear vision and unwavering values that guide my journey, even when the waters are rough, and the path is obscured.

By seeking my own True North, I commit to identifying and upholding my core values and long-term goals. This guiding light will help me stay on course, providing clarity and direction in moments of doubt and confusion. It’s a reminder that while tools and instruments can point the way, the ultimate direction must come from within.

My True North represents my deepest values and aspirations, the inner compass that guides my decisions and actions. This principle urges me to remain true to myself, ensuring that every step I take is aligned with my authentic purpose and vision.

Patterns

The following patterns and behaviours for the Year of the Navigator will form part of my daily rhythms over the course of this year.

Star Mapping

The Navigator meticulously studies the stars, not just for direction, but for inspiration and insight. By mapping the constellations, I will identify key milestones and pivotal moments in my journey. This pattern will involve regular reflection and goal-setting sessions, using the metaphorical stars to guide my progress and keep my aspirations aligned with my True North.

In practice, Star Mapping will mean setting aside time each week to reflect on my experiences and achievements. I'll track my progress, noting significant events, challenges overcome, and lessons learned. By connecting these experiences like stars in a constellation, I will gain a clearer picture of my journey and ensure that each step aligns with my broader vision.

Wayfinding

Wayfinding is the art of navigating without a map, relying on instinct, experience, and environmental cues. I will practice wayfinding by embracing new challenges and stepping into the unknown, trusting my intuition and accumulated wisdom to guide me. This pattern encourages adaptability and resilience, fostering a deeper connection with my inner compass and the world around me.

To incorporate Wayfinding into my life, I will seek out opportunities to step outside my comfort zone. This could mean taking on new projects at work, exploring unfamiliar hobbies, or traveling to new places. By doing so, I will develop my ability to navigate through uncertainty, relying on my instincts and experiences to find my way. This practice will build my confidence and reinforce my capacity to adapt and thrive in unpredictable environments.

Navigational Journaling

Navigational Journaling is about documenting the journey, recording insights, challenges, and progress. This practice will help me stay mindful of my path, learn from my experiences, and adjust my course as needed. By maintaining a detailed logbook, I will create a valuable resource for reflection and growth.

In practice, Navigational Journaling will involve daily entries in a dedicated journal. I will capture my thoughts, reflections, and insights, noting both the smooth and rough waters encountered. This habit will serve as a compass, helping me stay on course and providing a record of my journey that I can look back on for guidance and inspiration. It will also allow me to identify patterns, celebrate successes, and learn from setbacks, ensuring continuous growth and alignment with my True North.

Projects

Build a Fleet

As a Navigator, I recognise that no great journey is undertaken alone. I will embark on a project to Build a Fleet, assembling a network of allies, mentors, and collaborators who share my vision and values. This fleet will support and challenge me, providing diverse perspectives and resources. By building strong relationships and fostering a community, I will enhance my ability to navigate through the complexities of life and achieve my goals.

Navigational Mastery

To refine my skills and share my knowledge, I will engage in a project focused on Navigational Mastery. This will involve studying advanced navigation techniques, both literal and metaphorical, and applying them to my personal and professional life. I will seek out mentors, take courses, and practice these skills regularly. Through this project, I aim to become a master navigator, adept at guiding myself and others through life's complexities.

Horizon Quest

A major undertaking for the year will be Horizon Quest, a significant journey that pushes me beyond my current limits. This could be a new professional venture, a personal challenge, or a creative endeavour. The key is that it must be ambitious, transformative, and aligned with my values as the Navigator.

As I embark on the Year of the Navigator, I embrace the winds of change and the waves of opportunity, ready to chart a bold course through the seas of life. Here be dragons, and I am ready to meet them. Anchors aweigh!

How you can help

You may see me proudly wearing a distinctive pin, a symbol that represents my commitment to the principles of the Navigator. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power that lies within me and the impact I can make on the world. If you ever come across me donning this emblem, don't hesitate to ask me how I plan to infuse the spirit of the Navigator into my daily routines and practices. I embrace the opportunity to share my journey with you, exchanging ideas, experiences, and inspiration along the way.

I invite you to share your own Word of the Year, the guiding force that fuels your aspirations and goals. Let us embark on this transformative journey together, supporting and encouraging each other in our pursuit of personal growth and positive change. By joining forces, we can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond ourselves, inspiring those around us to embrace their own inner insurgencies. Let's connect, exchange insights, and embark on a shared adventure of self-discovery and transformation.

Together, we will illuminate new paths, challenge conventions, and forge a brighter future

Head over to the Choose One Word ‘Ritual of Becoming’ program and sign up today.