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December 27, 2024

My Words to Live By

Category: Senior Living

Author: Ellen Cavazos, Executive Director

Each year, I choose a Word of the Year—a simple yet meaningful word to guide my focus and intentions both personally and professionally. As Executive Director at The Summit at Chenal Valley Senior Living in Little Rock, Arkansas, the beginning of a new year always feels like a fresh start. It offers an opportunity to reset, refocus, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Growth as a Guiding Light

For 2024, my Word of the Year was growth. This word felt perfectly aligned with the season I was in and served as an anchor throughout the year. The Summit had recently opened its assisted living neighborhood, and we were eagerly preparing for the launch of our memory care neighborhood.

A vibrant group of senior residents poses against a Van Gogh-inspired sunflower mural, with bright smiles and colorful attire showcasing their joyful outing.

This focus on growth influenced every aspect of my role. It shaped decisions, nurtured relationships, and fueled personal development. Our team dedicated itself to building meaningful connections with new residents, families, and staff, while also refining processes to support the growing community.

Embracing Lessons and Opportunities

With significant growth came opportunities for new beginnings, the implementation of innovative systems, and challenges that required creative solutions. Each moment brought valuable lessons. Reflecting on the year, I’m amazed at how much this word shaped both my leadership and our community’s success.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As 2025 approaches, my Word of the Year is perseverance. This word reflects the determination to face challenges head-on while continuing to build on the progress made during 2024. Perseverance inspires resilience and encourages a steady focus on achieving long-term goals.

I’m excited to see how this word will guide me in leadership, strengthen relationships, and support personal growth throughout the coming year. Choosing a Word of the Year is not about having all the answers—it’s about being intentional and open to the journey it inspires.

A comparison table contrasting 2024's theme of growth with 2025's focus on perseverance, highlighting approaches, goals, challenges, and personal growth objectives.

What’s Your Word?

What will your Word of the Year be for 2025? Here’s to a year filled with purpose, growth, and meaningful moments for us all. Let’s step into this new chapter together, embracing the opportunities it holds.

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The Summit Senior Living in Little Rock, AR 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 St. Vincent’s Infirmiry with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Chenal Country Club, The Promenade Outlets, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, and Big Damn Bridge.

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