Did you know… The #1 favorite word of the day on the Merriam-Webster Dictionary website is, drum roll please…
Gumption.
Originally meaning intelligence or common sense, when combined with high levels of energy (English and Scottish), in the 1860’s we Yankees added ambition and tenacity to the definition. By the 1900’s Gumption became synonymous, worldwide, with courage and a certain “get-up-and go” conviction.
Why has it gotten the most “likes” as the favorite word of the day?
Because the word is optimistic, inspiring even, all full of can-do sagacity (favorite word #4 meaning keen judgment and farsightedness).
And, we all believe we have it in good supply. Simply conjuring the word elicits a sliver of its influence. Besides, it’s fun to say.
Savor the word Gumption and you feel the need to move, to accomplish, to triumph even. Gumption implies the finality of the goal actually being reached, no questions, no maybes – not just a sense that you could prevail but that you DO.
Honestly, could there be a better word for our “move more” revolution?
In the spirit of keeping your gumption running, your get-up-and-go motor fueled, here is a list of fun activity boosting ideas:
- Pace while you wait.
- Tap, shake or fidget your legs while you sit (and try not to get irritated by others who do the same).
- Dance.
- Take a full trip around and through the grocery store once before shopping for specific items.
- Find the restroom that’s farthest away from your work-station.
- Walk to a coffee shop or coffee station that’s farther away rather than closer.
- Get off the bus Gus – or subway, taxi, train, etc – one or two stops early and walk the rest of the way.
- Line waiting and teeth brushing antics – do toe raises, balance on one foot, stretch, lunge, squat, etc.
- March in place.
- Window shop.
- Make a tradition of walking after dinner.
- Take a daily “brainstorming” walk in the afternoon – 10 minutes for oxygen refueling.
- Pace, march, lunge, squat or stretch while talking on the phone.
- Walk a child to school (on safe routes) or a dog for exercise.
- Schedule walking meetings.
- Stroll the length of the mall from end to end before you buy anything.
- Set alarm breaks in your computer or clock or phone to remind you to get up and move.
- When doing errands, park between two different stops and walk to each.
- Give up the shoes that don’t allow for walking.
- Walk to your favorite restaurant on date night.
Oh and try Olga’s toe raises whenever possible…
On this conflicted holiday, Columbus Day, we honor both those who had the Gumption to explore and those who fought violence or tyranny and stood up for their beliefs.
Where is your Gumption today? Reclaim it on the PATH Ahead!