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December 27, 2024

My Words to Live By

Category: Senior Living

Author: Christie Underwood, Executive Director

Each year, I choose a Word of the Year to guide my focus and intentions both personally and professionally. As the Executive Director at The Rushwood Senior Living in Wichita, Kansas, the start of a new year feels like a fresh opportunity. It allows me to reset, refocus, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead. The word I select acts as an anchor, shaping how I lead my team, support families, and care for residents. Looking back on 2024, I am truly amazed at how much my Word of the Year shaped the past year.

A group photo of team members dressed in fun and creative costumes, standing together in a brightly lit community area, showcasing their festive spirit.

2024: A Year of Flexibility

My Word of the Year for 2024 was flexibility. This choice was perfectly aligned with the unique season we experienced as a startup community. With a new team and fresh challenges, we knew adaptability would be essential. Flexibility influenced my decisions, strengthened relationships, and supported my personal growth throughout the year.

Two team members smiling together while one holds a small holiday decoration and the other displays a cheerful plush reindeer, embodying community warmth and joy.

Our team faced a year of learning, growing, and collaborating. There were moments when we had to show each other grace and understanding. Together, we tried, failed, learned, and tried again. Ultimately, our commitment to flexibility led us to success. This word became the foundation for our progress and resilience as a community.

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

The lessons from 2024 will continue to influence my approach in 2025. One of the most important takeaways was the significance of effective communication. Throughout our successes and failures, clear and open communication emerged as a key factor in our growth.

2025: A Year of Communication

Looking ahead, my Word of the Year for 2025 is communication. This word reflects my commitment to fostering open dialogue and ensuring everyone feels heard. Good communication will guide how I lead, build relationships, and address challenges in the coming year. By focusing on this, I aim to strengthen connections within our team and community.

A comparative table outlining themes for 2024 ("Flexibility") and 2025 ("Communication"), emphasizing goals such as resilience, open dialogue, and strengthened teamwork.

Setting Intentions for the Year Ahead

Choosing a Word of the Year is not about having all the answers. Instead, it is about being intentional and open to the journey it inspires. As I step into 2025, I am eager to see how communication will shape my leadership and personal growth.

What Will Your Word of the Year Be?

As we approach the new year, I encourage you to reflect on your own goals and aspirations. What word will guide you in 2025? Let’s embrace the year with purpose, growth, and meaningful moments.

Are you ready to join a team where growth and communication thrive? At The Rushwood Senior Living, we value collaboration and connection. If you’re inspired to make a difference in the lives of others, join our team today. Visit our Careers page to learn more and take the next step in your journey!

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The Rushwood Senior Living in Wichita, KS offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Wesley Woodlawn Hospital & ER with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Terradyne Country Club, Bradley Fair, Greenwich Place, Botanica Gardens, Great Plains Nature Center, Tanganyika Wildlife Park, Keeper of the Plains, and World Treasures Museum.

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