Every year, as the holiday decorations come down and the calendar flips to January, the buzz around resolutions begins. “Lose weight,” “save more money,” “exercise daily” – we all know the drill too well. And let’s be honest: how often do those resolutions stick? For me, they’ve always felt a little too rigid, like a box I’m supposed to fit into rather than a path I can walk at my own pace.
That’s why I am drawn to the concept of a Word of the Year – and it’s been a good alternative for me. Instead of making a long list of resolutions, I choose one word – a single word – to guide me throughout the year. Think of it as your North Star: a simple, meaningful word that keeps you focused and inspired, no matter what life throws at you.
What is a Word of the Year, and Why Choose One?
Unlike resolutions, which often feel like a to-do list with a looming expiration date, a Word of the Year is flexible. It doesn’t demand perfection or checkboxes. Instead, it’s an overarching theme – a lens through which you view your choices, actions, and even challenges.
For instance, one year, my word was Balance. I didn’t have specific resolutions like “work out three times a week” or “spend less time on my phone.” Instead, Balance became my reminder to make space for work and rest, ambition and self-care. It nudged me to pause when I felt stretched too thin and to check if I was giving enough attention to the things that mattered most.
What’s beautiful about choosing a Word of the Year is that it provides clarity and focus without being restrictive. It’s there to motivate you and gently steer you back on course if you drift. Your word can apply to every part of your life – career, relationships, personal growth, or even just your mindset.
For me, a Word of the Year feels like a quiet companion, encouraging me without the pressure of ticking boxes. It’s a way to set intentions with kindness and curiosity, rather than chasing perfection. And the best part? It’s entirely yours. No one else’s expectations, no rules – just one meaningful word that lights your way forward.
So, if resolutions haven’t worked for you (or if you’re just curious about trying something new), a Word of the Year might be just what you’re looking for. And if you ask me, it’s a lot less daunting than a list of “should-dos” you’ll forget by February.
2. Steps to Find Your Word
Here’s how you can break down the process of choosing a word:
Reflect on Your Life
Before you dive into picking your Word of the Year, let’s pause for a moment of reflection. Don’t skip it, this step is worth it – it’s the same as clearing the clutter before rearranging a room.
I like to start by looking back at the past year, almost like flipping through a scrapbook of memories. What worked? What moments made you feel alive, proud, or at peace? For me, I realized that carving out quiet mornings for myself – just a cup of tea, a journal, and no screens – helped me feel grounded. That was one win I wanted to carry forward.
But of course, not everything goes as planned. Reflecting on what didn’t work can be a little uncomfortable, but it’s also enlightening. For example, I noticed I kept saying “yes” to things that drained my energy. Commitments I thought I should take on, rather than ones I genuinely wanted. That’s a habit I knew I needed to change.
This is your time to take stock, without judgment, of where you’ve been. What lessons did the past year teach you? What felt out of sync? Maybe it’s a need for more connection, better boundaries, or just more time to breathe.
Visualize the Year Ahead
Once you’ve reflected on the year gone by, it’s time to look ahead. This part always feels hopeful to me, like standing at the edge of a new chapter with a blank page waiting. Ask yourself: How do I want to feel this year? It’s not about ticking off achievements – it’s about the kind of energy or mindset you want to carry with you.
Take a moment to daydream. Who do you want to become? What’s calling to you – whether it’s bold or quiet, big or small? It doesn’t have to be crystal clear yet, but these reflections will help you zero in on the kind of word that can light your way forward.
For me, this process feels like planting seeds. When I introspect and visualize, I can almost sense which word might bloom into something meaningful. It’s a practice of both looking inward and dreaming big, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite rituals to start the year with.
Brainstorm Potential Words
Now comes the fun part: brainstorming your Word of the Year. Think of this step as gathering possibilities, like picking up smooth stones along a beach – you’re not committing to one just yet, but you’re noticing which ones catch your eye.
Start by grabbing a notebook or even the Notes app on your phone. Write down anything that comes to mind when you think about your life, values, or goals for the year. The key here is to let the ideas flow without overthinking. Words like Balance, Courage, Create, or Joy might pop up right away, but don’t be afraid to explore beyond the obvious.
If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few prompts to help:
- What do I need more of? Maybe you’re craving Peace, Energy, or Connection.
- What do I want to let go of? Perhaps words like Freedom or Release feel empowering.
- What motivates me? Think about values like Growth, Discovery, or Resilience.
For me, I like to sit with these questions for a bit. One year, I realized I kept feeling stretched too thin, so I wrote down words like Simplify, Ease, and Focus. Another time, I was itching to push myself creatively, so I jotted down Create, Explore, and Dare.
Don’t worry if your list feels messy or random – that’s part of the process. You might write down 20 words and then notice one or two that keep standing out. Or you might realize you’re drawn to a theme, like growth or rest, and can refine your word from there.
Sometimes, it helps to imagine how each word might feel in your daily life. For example, if you chose Balance, what would that look like in your routine? How would Joy or Bold show up in your choices or mindset?
Remember, there’s no right or wrong here. You’re simply gathering inspiration and exploring what resonates. Let your instincts lead the way – your perfect word might already be waiting for you in this brainstorm.
Choose What Feels Right
Once you’ve brainstormed a list of potential words, it’s time to choose the one that feels just right. This is where the magic happens – the moment when a single word clicks into place and feels like yours.
But how do you know which word to pick? Here’s the secret: it’s all about how the word makes you feel. Does it spark a little excitement, a sense of possibility, or maybe even a sigh of relief? The right word should feel meaningful, like it’s calling to you in a way that other words don’t.
Here’s a trick that can help: imagine your word as a quiet guide throughout the year. How would it shape your decisions, habits, or mindset? For instance, if you’re leaning toward Focus, picture how it might influence your daily life. Would it help you prioritize your time or stay present in the moment? Or, if Joy is your word, think about how it could inspire you to find small moments of happiness or gratitude each day.
The right word will feel like a gentle nudge in the direction you want to go – not a burden or a chore. It should feel like a friend cheering you on, not a taskmaster reminding you of what you “should” be doing.
If you’re still torn between a few words, that’s okay! Try saying each one out loud or writing it at the top of a blank page. Which one feels most natural? Which one excites you or makes you feel calm and focused? Sometimes, your gut will make the choice for you.
And here’s the most important thing to remember: there’s no perfect word, just the right one for where you are right now. So trust yourself. When you choose the word that feels meaningful, it will naturally become a source of guidance and inspiration throughout your year.
Tips for Choosing the Right Word
Picking your Word of the Year might feel like a big decision, but don’t worry – it’s simpler than it seems. Here are a few tips to help you land on a word that feels just right for you:
1. Keep It Simple
Your word doesn’t need to be fancy or complicated. In fact, the simpler, the better. Choose a word that’s easy to remember and broad enough to touch different areas of your life. Think about words like Balance, Growth, or Joy. They’re clear and can guide you whether you’re thinking about work, relationships, or self-care.
One year, I chose the word Ease. It wasn’t flashy, but it was exactly what I needed at the time. That one little word reminded me to slow down, simplify, and let go of unnecessary stress. And the beauty of simplicity is that it’s easy to come back to, even on the busiest days.
2. Make It Personal
Your Word of the Year should feel deeply connected to you. Don’t worry about what sounds trendy or what other people might choose. This word is your personal anchor, so it should resonate with your specific goals and values.
For example, I remember a year when I felt the pressure to choose something bold like Ambition. But when I really listened to myself, I realized what I actually needed was Steady. It wasn’t the most exciting choice, but it was authentic to where I was – and it ended up being exactly the right word for me.
3. Don’t Overthink It
It’s easy to get stuck in decision mode, wondering if you’ve found the “perfect” word. But here’s the truth: your word doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to feel right. Trust your instincts. If a word keeps catching your attention or sparks a little “aha” moment, that’s probably the one.
Remember, your Word of the Year is there to guide you, not to box you in. If it feels meaningful and inspiring, that’s all that matters. And if you’re worried about choosing “wrong,” don’t be. Even if your word evolves or shifts during the year, it’s still serving its purpose by keeping you focused and intentional.
So take a deep breath, trust yourself, and let your word find you. Chances are, it’s already waiting to be discovered.
My Experience Choosing a Word [2025]
Choosing my Word of the Year has become one of my favorite rituals – a moment of self-reflection, hope, and being kind to myself. This year, my word is Intentional, and honestly, it feels like the perfect fit for where I am right now.
Let me take you back to 2024. It was…a lot. A whirlwind of juggling priorities, overscheduling myself, and feeling like I was always one step behind. I can’t even count how many times I caught myself rushing through the day, checking things off my to-do list without really pausing to enjoy or even process them. I’d collapse into bed exhausted but unfulfilled, and that constant overwhelm was a wake-up call: something had to change.
When I sat down to choose my word for the new year, I knew I wanted something that would help me slow down and refocus. I thought about what I was missing in all that chaos – what I truly needed. That’s when the word Intentional came to me. It felt like a calming deep breath, a chance to step back and make choices that align with what truly matters to me.
For 2025, Intentional is my anchor. I want to be more deliberate about how I spend my time and energy. That means saying yes only to the things that bring me joy or align with my values – and learning to say no without guilt. It means carving out time for the things that nourish me: quiet mornings with coffee, time to paint, and real, present moments with the people I love.
Being intentional also means shaking off autopilot mode. Too often, I’ve let life sweep me along without really paying attention. This year, I’m committed to pausing, slowing, and choosing what feels right instead of what feels urgent.
I’m excited about this word because it feels like a path to a calmer, more meaningful life choices. I like how it’s not about doing more or being more; it’s about picking what truly matters and letting the rest fall away (without shame or guilt). Whether it’s deciding how to spend a free afternoon or how to approach a big project at work, Intentional is my reminder to pause, breathe, and make choices that feel true to me.
So here’s to a year of intentional living – a year where I get to create space for the things that light me up and let go of the noise. I can’t wait to see where this word takes me.
Living Your Word Throughout the Year
Choosing your Word of the Year is a powerful step, but the real magic happens when you carry it with you throughout the year. It’s not about perfection or rigidly sticking to one idea – it’s about letting your word gently guide you, day by day. Here are a few ways to keep your word alive and meaningful:
1. Use It as a Daily Reminder
Your word can become a quiet companion in your everyday life. Incorporate it into your routine in small but meaningful ways. For instance, you could:
- Write it at the top of your journal pages. Reflect on how it applies to your day or how you want to embody it.
- Use it as part of a daily affirmation: “Today, I choose to be [insert your word].” For me, with Intentional, I often say, “Today, I choose to be intentional with my time and energy.”
- Create visual reminders – like a word art display, a sticky note on your mirror, or even setting it as your phone wallpaper. These little nudges help keep your word front and center.
2. Check In Regularly
Your Word of the Year isn’t something to set and forget. Make it a habit to check in with yourself regularly – whether it’s weekly, monthly, or whenever life feels a bit off course. Ask yourself:
- Is this word showing up in my decisions and actions?
- How has it shaped my choices or mindset recently?
- Are there areas where I’ve drifted from it and could realign?
I like to do this at the end of each month, using my journal to jot down moments where I felt aligned with my word – or when I didn’t. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about staying mindful and giving yourself space to adjust.
3. Be Flexible
Life has a funny way of shifting our priorities, and that’s okay. Your word isn’t set in stone – it’s a guide, not a rulebook. As the year unfolds, let your word evolve with you. Maybe its meaning deepens, or you find new ways to apply it.
For example, when I chose Balance a few years ago, I initially thought it was about work-life harmony. But as the year went on, I realized it also applied to my relationships and even my inner dialogue—I needed balance between being ambitious and being kind to myself.
Progress is what matters, not perfection. Even small, mindful steps toward living your word are victories worth celebrating.
A Gentle Reminder
Living your Word of the Year isn’t about putting pressure on yourself. It’s about giving yourself a tool to feel more focused, grounded, and intentional (see what I did there?). Your word is there to support you, to help you grow, and to remind you of what truly matters.
So, as the year unfolds, keep your word close. Let it guide your decisions, shape your mindset, and inspire you to live with purpose. And remember: this is your journey. There’s no right or wrong way to live your word—just the way that feels right for you.
Encouragement for the Journey
As you embark on this journey with your Word of the Year, remember: there’s no such thing as a “perfect” word. The one you choose doesn’t have to be groundbreaking or poetic—it just needs to feel meaningful to you. Any word chosen with care and intention has the power to guide and inspire you in ways you might not even expect.
Think of this process as an adventure in self-discovery. Choosing a word isn’t about getting it “right” or making it fit into every corner of your life. It’s about experimenting, exploring, and staying open to where this word might lead you.
Some years, you might find your word resonates deeply, showing up in big, transformative ways. Other years, it might feel like a quiet whisper in the background, gently shaping your mindset without you even realizing it. Both experiences are valid and valuable.
I’ll be honest: there have been years when my Word of the Year didn’t unfold the way I imagined. But looking back, even those words taught me something. They nudged me toward reflection, helped me pause when I needed to, and gave me a sense of purpose—even in small, subtle ways.
So, as you step into this new year with your word, give yourself grace. Let it evolve with you. Let it be a source of inspiration, not pressure. And most importantly, enjoy the process. This is about you—your hopes, your growth, your journey.
If you feel inspired, I’d love for you to share your word! Whether it’s here in the comments, with a close friend, or quietly in your own journal, reflecting on your word can be a powerful way to connect with its meaning.
And if you’re keeping it private, that’s just as beautiful. The most important thing is how it resonates with you, how it feels like a guide you can carry with you into the year ahead.
So here’s to a year of joy and growth. Whatever word you’ve chosen – or are still uncovering – I hope it lights your path and brings you closer to the life you want to create. You’ve got this!
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