My One Word Theme for 2018 :: Prepare and a Whole30 Chili

I love words.  Ever since I was a little girl, I have been passionate about learning, especially when it comes to reading and writing.  Building a more expansive vocabulary continues to be a goal of mine and therefore I spend what I would consider a considerable amount of time consulting thesauruses and dictionaries to find the most impeccable, consummate, or quintessential means of conveying my message.  Succinctness is not necessarily my strength, but I do actively strive to find the best fitting word to do the job.  And in light of my affinity for words – it may not come as a shock that I am a big fan of the One Word Theme when it comes to New Year’s resolutions.

I was originally introduced to the concept a few years ago by the pastor of my church back in Boston, but have since then been especially intrigued by the idea of a One Word Theme or resolution.  I know that by this stage it has become quite trendy so many or most people may be familiar with the notion, but basically it involves choosing one specific word or phrase to focus on which encompasses your goals, resolutions, or intentions for the year.  The argument for it is that it is a less rigid and more attainable commitment than the usually failed, more traditional resolutions.  It’s something which is easy to remember and something which can serve as a guiding principle instead of a specific goal.  It’s a way to allow more for process and progress as opposed to a finite outcome.

Something that I have continued to learn is that progress towards almost any goal is not linear, fast, or easy.  And many people get frustrated or give up when they face setbacks or fail to recognize results quickly which is why New Year’s resolutions statistics are staggering and disillusioning.  A One Word Theme tends to aid in this regard since it is not something which is clearly pass/fail or achievable, but it does help to set intention and provide clarity as you make decisions and choices throughout the year.

So for 2018, I have chosen “Prepare.”  As a logophile, I must confess that I am not necessarily enamored with the word itself, but I did consult my beloved thesaurus and was unable to find an alternative which more aptly captures what it is I intend to do.  Jon and I have some big next steps ahead of us and plans which we hope to accomplish within the next 1 -3 years which require my diligence and focus.  One of my own guiding principles, borrowed from Havilah Cunnington of Truth to Table, is “everything you do today is preparation for tomorrow,” and I need to take actions and make decisions  this year which allow me to lay the groundwork for the future.  I need to spend my year preparing.

Fortunately, planning and preparation are already critical components of many aspects of my life, especially when it comes to my nutrition and eating.  If you have goals related to improving your health this year, I personally have found meal planning and prep to be immensely helpful and wrote about some of my own tips and tricks here and here.  And (at this time of year especially) some type of soup frequently makes an appearance on my rotation. So this week I am looking forward to this super easy and squeaky clean Whole30 and Paleo Chili which is already prepped up and in my freezer awaiting my return to Ireland!  It’s a satisfying and hearty way to start the year on the right foot.

I would love to hear about your experiences with a One Word Theme either this year or in those prior and how it may have impacted your ability to keep your New Year’s resolutions!

Save Print

Whole30 Chili

Prep time:  5 mins

Cook time:  35 mins

Total time:  40 mins

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• Coconut Oil 1 TBSP divided
• Beef or Turkey Mince 1 lb (400 g)
• Medium Yellow Onion, Diced 1 each
• Garlic Cloves, Minced 3 each
• Large Red Bell Pepper, Diced 1 each
• Large Orange Bell Pepper, Diced 1 each
• Large Green Bell Pepper, Diced 1 each
• Jalapeño, Diced 1 each (optional)
• Bone Broth 32 oz (950 ml)
• Tomato Paste 6 oz (175 ml)
• Canned Diced/Chopped Tomatoes 29 oz (800 g)
• Chili Powder 1 TBSP
• Paprika 1 TBSP
• Ground Cumin 1 TBSP
• Oregano 1 TBSP
• Sea Salt .5 TSP
• Black Pepper .25 TSP
• Cayenne Pepper .25 TSP
• Avocado and Cilantro/Coriander to Garnish

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan melt half of the coconut oil over medium high heat and add the minced beef or turkey. Break about the ground meat and allow to brown.
2. Once browned, but not overcooked, drain the meat and set aside.
3. In a large stockpot, melt the remaining coconut oil and then add the onions and allow to cook until softened and translucent about 3 minutes.
4. Then add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Next add the bell peppers and jalapeño and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened, stirring to combine.
6. Add all spices and stir to combine.
7. Then add the bone broth, canned/tinned tomatoes, and browned meat. Allow to simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Finally add the tomato paste and stir to combine.
9. Remove from heat and dish up, topping with avocado and cilantro/coriander as desired.

3.5.3226