Choosing Your Word of the Year
As the year winds down, there’s a certain buzz in the air.
The holiday hustle is in full swing, and people are already talking about resolutions and big plans for the year ahead. But let’s be real—resolutions don’t always stick.
We’ve all been there, setting a huge goal in January only to let it slide by mid-February.
So let’s try something new. I want to introduce you to one of my favorite practices for kicking off a new year: choosing Word of the Year.
Think of it as your North Star—a word that keeps you focused, grounded, and aligned with what truly matters. It’s not about pressure or perfection; it’s about intention.
And the best part? It’s simple. No long list of goals or rigid plans. Just one word that guides your decisions and energy for the year ahead.
You’re giving 110% to your career—but at what cost to your health?
Why Choose a Word of the Year?
Let’s talk about why this works. Resolutions often fail because they’re too rigid or overly focused on external outcomes.
But a Word of the Year is flexible. It’s about how you want to feel and who you want to be rather than what you need to accomplish.
For example, maybe your word is “calm.” That doesn’t mean you’ll avoid stress entirely, but it gives you a lens to approach challenges: How can I bring calm to this situation?
Or maybe your word is “bold.” It’s a reminder to take risks, speak up, and step out of your comfort zone.
Your word becomes a touchstone, something you can return to when life gets hectic or you feel unsure. It’s like having a quiet coach in your corner, whispering, “You’ve got this.”
How to Choose Your Word of the Year
Now, here’s where the fun begins! Finding the right word is a personal process, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Here are a few steps to help you uncover yours:
1. Reflect on the Past Year
Before you can look ahead, it’s helpful to look back. Take a moment to think about 2024. What went well? What felt hard? Is there a theme or lesson that stands out?
If this year felt chaotic, you might crave more balance or simplicity. If you played it safe, maybe it’s time for a year of courage.
Jot down a few thoughts. No need to overthink—just let it flow.
2. Envision Your Ideal Year
Close your eyes and imagine it’s December 2025. What would make you look back and say, “Wow, that was an amazing year”?
Think about how you want to feel, how you want to show up, and what you want more (or less) of in your life. Words like “joy,” “focus,” or “freedom” might bubble up as you picture your ideal year.
3. Brainstorm a Word Bank
Now, it’s time to get creative! Grab a piece of paper and start brainstorming words that resonate with you. Don’t censor yourself—write down anything that feels exciting, meaningful, or inspiring.
If you need ideas, here are some favorites to spark your imagination:
Growth
Peace
Presence
Strength
Connection
Adventure
Confidence
Once you’ve got a list, circle the ones that stand out the most.
4. Let It Simmer
Sometimes, the right word pops out instantly. Other times, it takes a little marinating. Sit with your top picks for a day or two. Which one feels like it captures the energy you want to bring into the new year?
What to Do with Your Word
Once you’ve chosen your word, the magic really begins. Here’s how to make it a part of your life:
Write it down. Put it somewhere you’ll see it often—on your planner, as your phone wallpaper, or on a sticky note by your desk.
Set intentions. Ask yourself: How can I align my daily choices with this word?
Check in regularly. At the start of each month, revisit your word. How is it showing up in your life? Are there ways to lean into it more?
My Word of the Year Stories
I’ve been doing this practice for years, and I’ll tell you—it works. One year my word was “Yes,” and I embraced it as a reminder to prioritize saying yes to myself—and it made a world of difference!
This year, my word was “discomfort”—a gentle nudge to step out of my comfort zone and take big, bold risks in my personal life and my business.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn! Take some time to reflect, dream, and choose a word that feels right for you. Remember, there’s no wrong choice here—it’s all about what resonates with you.
When you’ve picked your word, share it with me in the comments or send me a message. I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up for 2025.
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