Small things at the end
of a year that's too much
“Rizz”—a shortened version of “charisma”—is Oxford Language’s Word of the Year for 2023, basically meaning to "make something more attractive." Popular as it is, apparently, in order to be named the word of the year, it just doesn't resonate with me. I prefer Oxford's word of the year last year, which was “Goblin Mode,” a term defined as a type of behavior which is unapologetically self-indulgent in a way that rejects social norms.
So, whether it's Rizz for you, or you'll be sticking to Goblin Mode, here's to ending the year showing up for yourself and what you truly need in this season.
We’ve just passed the solstice, so I'm thinking about autumn passing, chapters closing, darkness lingering, light returning, a need for deep rest, and the wisdom wild creatures offer when we pay attention.
This is the season of going to ground. And goblins, in most mythological tales, do indeed spend a lot of time underground.
What does “Goblin Mode” look like for you right now? What would it mean to go to ground in the most healing sense as the year ends? Even though there are huge global issues demanding energy and attention, taking care of yourself remains important so you can do what you're called to do when it comes to adding to the healing of the world. You never have to apologize for taking care of yourself.
More reading?1 Fewer parties? Not sending holiday cards? Moving to a cave filled with treasure for a few months? More wandering around outside, less scrolling in the living room? Huddling under the fuzziest blanket you have and watching your favorite movies? Enjoying food that you really like without feeling guilty about it? Sleeping as much as you need to to feel truly rested?
Here’s to the unapologetic self-indulgences that reject social norms. Maybe you'll even add some extra rizz to your gobin plan. I think rejecting social norms is a great way to end a year. Again. And until social norms include living simply and accepting peace as the only true way forward, always.
May your year end include enough of the small things that bring joy, peace, and healing, in all the forms healing can take.
This is the season of going to ground.
Heidi Barr is a Minnesota based writer and wellness coach. www.heidibarr.com
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